Shirogane Blue Pond
Shirogane Blue Pond: A Mystical Wonder in Hokkaido
Nestled deep in the heart of Hokkaido’s rolling landscapes lies a captivating sight that seems almost otherworldly—Shirogane Blue Pond (青い池, Aoi-ike). Located in the town of Biei, this dazzling body of water is a curious blend of natural beauty and human intervention. It wasn’t always here, and in fact, its very existence is the result of a disaster prevention project following the eruption of Mount Tokachi in 1988. But what nature and man have conspired to create is nothing short of a spectacle—a shimmering blue pond that looks like it was plucked from the realm of dreams and dropped into the tranquil surroundings of Hokkaido.
The Story Behind the Blue
The Shirogane Blue Pond wasn’t always the picturesque tourist destination it is today. Its origin is as practical as it is poetic. After the Mount Tokachi eruption threatened the area with volcanic mudflows, a dam was constructed to protect the town of Biei. As if by some magical coincidence, this barrier helped form the pond, which soon became famous for its arresting color. The distinctive blue hue, which is sometimes so vivid it seems as if the sky itself melted into the water, is believed to be caused by colloidal aluminum hydroxide. This fancy chemical reacts with sunlight, scattering blue wavelengths and giving the pond its ethereal appearance.
What’s especially captivating is that this isn’t just a static feature. Depending on the weather, time of year, or even the angle of the sun, the pond shifts from shades of brilliant turquoise to a deep milky blue, and occasionally it appears green or white. In the summer of 2016, Typhoon Mindulle stirred things up a bit by turning the pond brown with mud, causing a brief panic. Fortunately, nature corrected herself, and the pond returned to its vibrant blue shortly after, proving once again that some marvels are resilient.
Getting to Shirogane Blue Pond
Visiting this magical spot is an adventure in itself. Just a 20-minute bus or taxi ride from Biei Station on the JR Furano Line, the journey offers its own scenic delights, with vast fields and snow-capped mountains welcoming you along the way. For those worried about accessibility, the area is accommodating, with a wheelchair-accessible parking lot and pathways making it easy for everyone to take in the pond’s beauty.
However, starting March 21, 2024, a small fee will be required to park, so bring a few yen with you:
- Motorcycles: 100 yen
- Standard Cars: 500 yen
- Large Vehicles: 2,000 yen
(Biei locals, lucky them, get a pass on parking fees.)
Experiencing the Blue Pond
Once you’ve arrived, the first thing you’ll notice is that the pond isn’t always the same shade of blue, and therein lies part of its charm. On clear, calm days, especially in the early morning, the pond glows with an otherworldly blue that photographers dream of. However, the weather can change that—sometimes casting the pond in hues of emerald or opal, making it feel like an entirely different place.
But it’s not just the pond itself that’s mesmerizing; it’s the whole scene. The water is surrounded by ghostly, withered larch trees, standing like silent sentinels in the tranquil water. Their pale bark against the vivid blue backdrop makes the whole landscape feel a little surreal, like you’ve wandered into a watercolor painting.
From November 1 to April 30, this wonderland is illuminated each evening, turning the pond into a twinkling blue oasis in the snow. The lights stay on until 9 PM, but if you’re visiting between December 31 and January 3, you’ll get a rare treat—the lights shine until 2 AM, making a nighttime visit especially magical.
Visitor Tips
If you’re thinking about heading to the pond, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, the walking path from the parking lot to the pond is short—just about a three-minute stroll. However, it’s wise to wear decent shoes, especially if there’s been rain or snow, as the path can get a bit muddy.
For those looking to avoid crowds (and trust me, you’ll want to), it’s best to visit in the morning. By midday, especially between 1 PM and 3 PM, the area can become overrun with visitors. And nothing ruins the tranquility of a natural wonder quite like jostling for space with a few dozen selfie sticks.
Speaking of photos, there’s a small shop nearby where you can grab some unique blue-themed treats—think blue ice cream and drinks. While there’s no seating, the snacks are fun for a quick bite and make for an Instagram-worthy shot before you leave.
But Why So Blue?
It’s hard not to wonder why exactly the pond is so blue. The secret lies in the mixing of water from the Biei River and Iozawa River, which brings aluminum and other minerals into the pond. As sunlight dances through the colloidal particles suspended in the water, blue light is scattered more than other wavelengths, giving the pond its distinctive hue. The white soil at the bottom of the pond helps reflect the light, further enhancing the effect. But the truth is, no one knows the exact alchemy that makes it so magical—and maybe that’s part of the allure.
Other Nearby Attractions: Shirogane Onsen
After soaking in the sight of Shirogane Blue Pond, there’s no better way to cap off your visit than with an actual soak in the nearby Shirogane Onsen. This hot spring resort is just a short distance from the pond and offers the perfect retreat, especially during Hokkaido’s frigid winter months. A warm dip in mineral-rich waters, with snow falling gently around you? Now that’s a memory you won’t forget anytime soon.
A Must-See in Biei
Whether you’re drawn by the serene, reflective beauty of a quiet morning at the pond or you’re enticed by the dazzling winter illuminations, Shirogane Blue Pond is one of those places that leaves an imprint on your soul. There’s something deeply peaceful about it—its shifting colors, its stillness, and the way it seems to hold a little piece of magic within its depths. It’s no wonder visitors from around the world flock here, year after year.
So, pack your camera, your curiosity, and maybe a sturdy pair of boots. The mystical, ever-changing beauty of Shirogane Blue Pond is waiting for you.