In addition to stunning scenery, this crater lake (the deepest in Japan - 423m/1,388ft) is the setting of a popular legend, according to which the maiden Tatsuko, who is said to have prayed to the gods to keep her beauty, was turned into a dragon. Her picture postcard bronze statue standing on the western shore of the lake is a popular holiday snapshot, as is the bright red tori of Goza no Ishi shrine on the northern shore. It is not possible to walk around the lake, but the road offers many viewing points; it is possible to cross the lake by boat.