Located in Aomori prefecture, Lake Ashino is famous for its clean and clear water. This lake is famous among researchers because it is very rare to have such an ideal condition for plants and animals to live in and around the lake. There is a bridge called the “floating bridge of dreams” on this lake, and it is the longest bridge in the Tohoku area. It could be a little bit scary when you walk on it, because it shakes quite a lot. A famous Japanese writer, Osamu Dazai was from this area. There are statues commemorating him in places where he used to play as a child. Near Ashino Koen Station, there is even a restaurant named after his book. Ashino Park Ashino Park is a famous place for Ohanami (flower viewing in the spring). There are 2200 cherry blossom trees and 1800 pine trees in the area of 80 hectares. Sakura Festival, which is held every year from 29th of April to 5th of May, attracts many tourists and local people to this park. Lake Ashino is also inside Ashino Park. Address: Ashino Ike Area Kanagi-cho, Gosyogawara city, Aomori Phone: 0173-35-2111 (Tourism Commission)