Lake Chuzenji

At 1,269m above sea level, this is one of the highest lakes in Japan.
Lake Chuzenji is located at the entrance to Okunikko. It is about 25km in circumference, and is 163m deep at its deepest point. Its original shape is said to be have been formed about 20,000 years ago, when a valley was dammed up by lava from Mount Nantai.
Because of its gentle climate, it was popular among foreigners from the Meiji to early Showa eras as a summer resort.
The tranquil lake shore at the foot of Mount Nantai offers a different look in each season.
The azaleas in early summer and the autumn leaves are especially splendid.