The mystery of the 5-color lake is located in a super unique location in Japan

Located on the border of Yamagata and Miyagi prefectures, Mount Zaō is one of the famous mountains in the Tohoku region of Japan. Many people come to Zaō Onsen ski resort for its beautiful winter scenery and the Juhyo forest, also known as the "Snow Monster". Besides, Mount Zaō is also a must-see place in the spring, summer and autumn months.

Inside the mountain is Okama Crater, a lake between the 3 mountains of Goshiki, Kumano and Katta with beautiful scenery. One of the most unique things about Okama Crater is that depending on the weather and time of visit, visitors can admire the lake "changing color".

The most common will be different shades of green and dark blue. If you're lucky, you might be greeted with a vibrant emerald or turquoise hue. This special feature has helped attract many visitors to experience the breathtaking scenery. The mystical atmosphere contrasts with the violent crater.

Okama crater lake attracts with its ability to change water color.

Okama Crater was formed by a volcanic eruption in the 1720s. To this day, it is still considered an active volcano. The name "Okama" comes from the Japanese word for "pot" or "kettle", since the lake is shaped like a cooking pot.

Considered the "symbol" of Zaō, the 27-meter-deep lake cannot sustain life due to the high acidity of the water. Since this is an active volcano, visitors cannot get close to the crater to observe. Obviously, they can't even swim in the lake.

In spring, the snow begins to melt making Okama easily accessible to visitors. It is also a great place for hiking. In the summer, a wild flower called komakusa blooms and fills the surrounding area with color in June-July. But autumn brings equally brilliant reds and oranges.

Visitors cannot swim in Lake Okama because the water is highly acidic.

Most of the route leads to Okama.

There are many ways for visitors to visit Lake Okama. They can experience hiking and get the help of a climbing guide to find their way to the lake. Most of the route leads to Okama. Take the Zaō Echo Line trail to Mount Katta, from where you can see the crater from a picturesque distance.

If you don't want to go hiking, you can get to Okama by bus or car, from Yamagata and Miyagi prefectures. Note, however, that the crater lake is not accessible during winter (usually early November to late April) due to heavy snowfall. In addition, visitors can use the cable car route.