Towada shrine is a Shinto shrine believed to have been built in the 9th century in honor of Yamato Takeru and is regarded as the home of the water spirit. It It is nestled in a phenomenal forest on the shores of Lake Towada and within walking distance of the town center. Together with Mount Osore, Towada Shrine is considered one of the most significant spiritual locations in Aomori and a walk along its unpaved paths lined with towering cedar trees is one of the best activities in the area.

The mystical tour starts in front of Hotel Towada-so. From here the group walks through a “tunnel” of 250-year-old cedar trees; these used to lead the way for worshipers who traveled from afar to pay their respects to the deity. Once at the main stone torii gate, visitors are welcomed by the deep greenery and peacefulness of the ancient forests. Before heading up to the shrine, one interesting stop is the purifying station. This station has the typical mystifying look common in this sort of places, but with an added charm that at times it is home to a colony of frogs. You will not see them but once you get up close you will hear them loud and clear.

From here, the tour goes uphill and up the stairs to Towada Shrine. During the history-themed walk, the local guide dressed for the occasion will shared details about how the shrine was used by locals several centuries ago and pictures showing how it looked back them. After a climb up the long and steep set of wooden stairs, the tour arrives close to the most sacred point in the area. Back in the day people use to navigate the waters of Lake Towada to reach the shrine and pay their respects to the gods of the lake by throwing coins on the shore in the hope of good fortune.

Text from “Japan Travel by Navitime”