Kōtarō Takamura used his wife, Chieko, as the model for the figures, intending to represent the spirit of the lake's landscape.
The statue was commissioned by the Aomori Prefecture government as part of a post-war tourism development initiative.
It is specifically positioned at the edge of the lake to mirror the serene environment of the caldera.
The work is often referred to as the symbol of Lake Towada, anchoring the local identity of the Yasumiya village area.
Despite being a famous landmark, the statue is relatively small in stature compared to other commemorative monuments in Japan.
The Otome-no-zō (Maiden Statue) is a bronze sculpture located on the shores of Lake Towada in Aomori Prefecture, Japan. Sculpted by the renowned artist Kōtarō Takamura, it was unveiled in 1953 to commemorate the 15th anniversary of Towada-Hachimantai National Park. The statue features two nude female figures facing each other, symbolizing the natural beauty and history of the lake. Cast in bronze, the work reflects the artist's signature style and remains his final major sculptural commission. It is situated in the Yasumiya area, the primary tourist hub on the southern coast of the caldera lake. The figures are positioned against the backdrop of the water, intentionally designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape. The site serves as a central landmark for visitors exploring the Towada-Hachimantai National Park region.
From the lakeside pier looking back toward the statue, capturing both the maiden figures and the open lake in one frame.
Walk the surrounding lake shore path to view the statue from multiple angles against the water.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Towada Shrine for a fuller local cultural experience.
Check local weather forecasts as the lakeshore area can become extremely windy and misty, which affects visibility.
Do not attempt to climb or touch the statue, as it is a protected cultural monument; avoid visiting during heavy winter snowstorms when paths may be inaccessible.
The site is outdoors and accessible year-round, though heavy snow may limit access to the immediate shoreline during winter months.
