Goza-no-ishi Shrine

Goza-no-ishi Shrine, on the shore of Lake Tazawa in Senboku City, is a mysterious shrine deeply tied to the legend of Princess Tatsuko. The tale tells of a beautiful girl named Tatsuko who wished for eternal beauty and in time became a dragon, the master of Lake Tazawa. The precincts hold many sights, such as the sacred spring at Katagashira said to have triggered her transformation, a wishing bridge where you can write your prayer, and a mirror stone in which Tatsuko is said to have reflected her form. Visitors come to pray for beauty and good marriage. The vermilion gate set against the lake is striking.

Highlights

- A beautiful view of the vermilion gate standing against Lake Tazawa - The sacred spring at Katagashira, said to have led Tatsuko to become a dragon - A wishing bridge to write your prayer and a mirror stone said to reflect Tatsuko - A shrine alive with legend, visited by those praying for beauty and good marriage

Enjoying the Seasons

From spring into summer the contrast between the clear blue Lake Tazawa and the vermilion gate is vivid, and strolling the lakeshore feels pleasant. In autumn the surrounding mountains turn to crimson, and the scene of lake and shrine grows even more beautiful. In winter, when Lake Tazawa is known never to freeze, the shrine amid a snowy view also has its charm.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Hinokinai, Nishiki-cho, Senboku City, Akita - Access: By car along the shore of Lake Tazawa - Parking available - Spots such as the Tatsuko statue and Ukigi Shrine are nearby

A Quick Tip

Circling Lake Tazawa, it is recommended to also visit spots tied to the Tatsuko legend, such as the Tatsuko statue and Ukigi Shrine. The lakeshore can be windy on some days, so bringing a jacket will give you peace of mind.