Statue of Tatsuko
(Tatsuko-zō / たつこ像)
The Statue of Tatsuko is a beautiful and iconic bronze statue standing on the shores of Lake Tazawa in Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, Japan. It represents the legendary figure Tatsuko, a young woman who is said to have transformed into a dragon to achieve eternal beauty.
🐉 The Legend of Tatsuko
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According to local folklore, Tatsuko was a young and beautiful girl who lived near Lake Tazawa.
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She wished to maintain her beauty forever and prayed to the gods for eternal youth.
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After drinking from a sacred spring, she was transformed into a dragon and became the guardian spirit of Lake Tazawa, Japan’s deepest lake (about 423 meters).
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Her story is a symbol of eternal beauty and tragic fate.
🗽 About the Statue
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Artist: Yasutake Funakoshi
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Unveiled: 1968
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Material: Bronze (with a golden finish)
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Height: About 2.3 meters (7.5 feet)
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The statue portrays Tatsuko standing gracefully, looking out over the lake with a serene expression.
🎬 Appeared in a Korean Drama
The Statue of Tatsuko and its scenic setting at Lake Tazawa gained international attention when it appeared in the popular Korean drama "IRIS" (2009).
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The lake was used as a dramatic backdrop for key scenes featuring the main characters.
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The mysterious and beautiful atmosphere of the area contributed to the drama’s emotional depth.
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Since then, it has become a popular pilgrimage spot for K-drama fans, especially those visiting from South Korea.
📍 Location & Access
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Where: Northeastern shore of Lake Tazawa, near the Goza no Ishi Shrine
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City: Semboku, Akita Prefecture
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Access:
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About 20 minutes by bus from Tazawako Station (JR Akita Shinkansen)
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Car and bicycle access also available around the lake
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📸 Popular Tourist Spot
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The statue is a favorite photo spot, often seen with the shimmering blue waters of Lake Tazawa in the background.
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Visitors enjoy the view especially during autumn foliage, winter snow scenes, and cherry blossom season.
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The area also offers boat rides and scenic walks.
🎯 Symbol of the Region
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The Statue of Tatsuko is a beloved local symbol and part of the cultural identity of Akita Prefecture.
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The legend of Tatsuko is also featured in local arts, crafts, and even sake labels!
The Statue of Tatsuko is not only a place of natural beauty and mythological significance, but also a meaningful location for fans of Korean dramas, offering a unique blend of culture, story, and scenery.
Website
https://www.city.semboku.akita.jp/en/sightseeing/spot/04_tatsukodensetsu.html
Accommodation sites
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