Lake Jusanko

Seven kilometers long north to south, five east to west, and 31.4 kilometers in circumference, this is one of the largest lakes in the prefecture. Jusanko means thirteen lake, and it is believed the lake got its name due to the Iwaki River, Yamada River, Miyanosawa River, and 10 other rivers which flow into it. Located on the west coast of the Tsugaru Peninsula, the lake's waters are brackish-a mixture of fresh and salt water-and, together with Lake Shinji and Lake Ogawara, this lake is known as one of the top areas in the country for producing basket clams. Rare wild birds such as Steller's sea eagles, a designated Natural Monument; and marsh grassbirds, known as the phantom bird, live or make stops here, and the lake is also renowned as a paradise for birdwatchers.