What Is Tsutanuma Pond? A Scenic Spot in Towada, Aomori
Tsutanuma Pond (Tsutanuma) is a quiet pond near Tsuta Onsen in Towada City, Aomori Prefecture, and is one of the iconic scenic spots within Towada-Hachimantai National Park.
The "Tsuta Wild Bird Forest Course" guided by the Ministry of the Environment takes visitors on a loop of six ponds starting from Tsuta Onsen: Tsutanuma, Kagaminuma, Tsukinuma, Naganuma, Suganuma, and Hyotannuma. Tsutanuma is introduced as the first pond along the course.
The total distance is about 2.8 km and takes roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes to walk. The trail is easy to follow, with few ups and downs.
The official Tsuta Onsen website refers to all these ponds, including the slightly distant Akanuma, collectively as the "Tsuta Nanuma" (Seven Ponds of Tsuta).
Tsutanuma is the largest of the six ponds, with a circumference of about 1 km.
It's best known for the views from the lakeside boardwalk and observation deck, and it's easy to fit a round-trip visit to Tsutanuma into your plans.
If you have time to spare, you can continue on to the surrounding ponds and enjoy the varied forest atmosphere along the way.
Top Things to See at Tsutanuma: Water Mirror and Beech Forest Through the Seasons
The Water Mirror View from the Observation Deck
The biggest draw of Tsutanuma is the "water mirror" effect, where the surrounding forest is reflected on the pond's surface on a still, windless morning.
The Ministry of the Environment introduces it as a pond with a beautiful water mirror, and the scenery changes dramatically between the fresh greenery of late May through June and the autumn leaves of late October through early November.
From the lakeside boardwalk and deck, visitors can see himemasu (sockeye salmon) and iwana (char) swimming in the clear waters.
Quiet Air While Walking Through the Beech Forest
On site, you can enjoy the scenery not only from the observation deck but also from the lakeside boardwalk.
The area is surrounded by old-growth beech forest, so instead of just taking photos, walking slowly while listening to birdsong, the sound of the wind, and the changing air makes it easier to appreciate what makes this place special.
With fresh greenery in spring, deep green in summer, autumn leaves in fall, and quiet stillness in winter, Tsutanuma looks different throughout the year—and the early summer greenery can be just as memorable as the autumn foliage.
How to Get to Tsutanuma and Walking Tips
How to Get to Tsutanuma by Bus or Car
The main way to reach Tsutanuma is to start from Tsuta Onsen.
To get to Tsuta Onsen, you can take the JR Bus "Mizuumi-go" from Aomori Station, with a travel time of around 2 hours.
By car, it's about 1 hour and 30 minutes via National Route 103 from either central Aomori city or central Hachinohe city.
For those using public transportation, service schedules may change by season, so it's best to check the latest timetable before you go.
Walkability and What to Bring
According to the Tsuta Onsen FAQ, the path to Tsutanuma is described as a gentle, well-maintained walkway.
That said, walking the entire Tsuta Wild Bird Forest Course takes you through natural terrain, so comfortable sneakers or trekking shoes, plus a weather-appropriate jacket or rain gear, will help you enjoy the walk more comfortably.
If you just want to see the view in a short time, head to Tsutanuma only; if you also want to enjoy a forest walk, do the full course. Planning this way avoids overexertion.
Restrooms are available at Tsuta Onsen and nearby parking areas, so it's a good idea to use them before starting your walk.
Reservation Rules and Fees During Tsutanuma's Autumn Leaves Season
Tsutanuma tends to get crowded during the peak autumn foliage season from late October to early November, and Towada City and the Ministry of the Environment implement overtourism countermeasures to ease congestion and protect the natural environment.
During the autumn leaves countermeasure period, entry to the Tsutanuma Observation Deck from 5:00 AM to 7:30 AM (early morning) is by advance reservation only.
The early morning cooperation fee is 2,000 yen per person for entry to the observation deck, 2,000 yen per car for parking, and 1,000 yen per motorcycle for parking.
From 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM during the day, reservations are not required, but traffic congestion and environmental conservation cooperation fees of 2,000 yen per car and 1,000 yen per motorcycle apply. Visitors on foot, by bicycle, or by taxi enter free of charge.
The specifics vary year by year, so check the latest information from Towada City or the dedicated guide before your visit.
Also, during the autumn countermeasure period, parking is not allowed from 8:00 PM the previous day until 4:50 AM the day of, except for overnight guests at Tsuta Onsen. If the parking lots fill up during the day, you may be asked to come back later.
If you're visiting during autumn, decide first whether you want to see the dawn glow or walk around leisurely during the day, then check reservation requirements and parking conditions to make planning easier.
Since the early morning slot is mainly operated for individual travelers, it's also worth checking whether it fits your travel style.
Tsutanuma Etiquette and Tips for First-Time Visitors
Stay on the Trails and Decks
The Ministry of the Environment asks visitors not to stray from the trails or decks in order to protect vegetation and ensure visitor safety.
Even at scenic viewpoints, avoid stepping off the designated paths for photos. Always view the scenery from within the maintained areas.
If you use a tripod, be mindful not to block the walkway so that other visitors can also enjoy the view comfortably.
Preserve the Quiet Natural Environment
The Tsuta Wild Bird Forest Course is introduced as a valuable natural environment where you can see birds such as the ruddy kingfisher (Akashobin), and in June, the egg masses of the forest green tree frog (Moriaogaeru).
Avoid making loud noises, take all trash with you, and share the deck with others during busy times—both to enjoy the scenery and to help protect the natural environment.
Check Winter Closure Information in Advance
According to the Ministry of the Environment, the Tsuta Wild Bird Forest trail is closed in winter, and instead, activities such as snowshoe tours are offered.
If you're visiting in late autumn or during the snowy season, be sure to check the latest trail status and weather conditions beforehand.
Summary: Tsutanuma Travel Tips
Tsutanuma is one of Towada's signature scenic spots, easily reached on foot from Tsuta Onsen, where you can quietly enjoy reflections on the water and the surrounding beech forest.
Start by heading to Tsutanuma, and if you have time, extend your walk to the other ponds of the Tsuta Nanuma to experience the appeal of the Tsuta Forest more deeply.
Because advance reservations and cooperation fees apply during the autumn leaves season, be sure to check the official information from Towada City, the Ministry of the Environment, and Tsuta Onsen before your visit.
