Blue Pond (Biei Town, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Blue Pond is an artificial pond known for its beautiful blue color, located in the Shirogane district of Biei Town, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido. The pond was created for flood control work, and it is said that the vibrant blue color is due to the surrounding lime and aluminum components acting as fine particles in the water, scattering light. The photogenic scenery of withered larch and Erman's birch trees floating on the water's surface has made it a popular tourist destination both in Japan and overseas. The pond's appearance changes with each season, and you can enjoy the light of sunny days, the muted colors of cloudy days, snowy scenery, and winter illuminations.
Highlights
- The blue color of the water surface changes depending on the time of day, weather, and season, so you can enjoy it over and over again.
- Dead trees standing in water: The unique landscape created by dead trees standing in water is a popular subject for photography.
- Walking trails and observation spots: The pond can be viewed from various angles from the walking trails and observation areas that surround it.
- Nearby Shirahige Falls: This waterfall is in the same river system, and many people visit it together with the Blue Pond.
- Seasonal changes: Spring and summer see the blue that stands out against the greenery, autumn sees the autumn leaves, and winter sees the snowy scenery and illuminations (for a limited time).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest train station: JR Biei Station (tourist hub). From Biei Station, it is common to use a car or a local bus or tourist bus.
- By car: Approximately 20-30 minutes from central Biei, 40-50 minutes from central Asahikawa, and 2-2.5 hours from Sapporo (depending on road conditions). Paid parking and toilets are available in the Shirokane area.
- Bus: During the tourist season, there are seasonal buses from Biei Station and Asahikawa to Shirokane and the Blue Pond. Please check the timetable in advance.
- Taxi/Sightseeing bus: It is convenient to take a taxi from Biei or Asahikawa or visit on a sightseeing tour.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: Approximately 30 minutes (only taking photos at the observation deck and strolling around)
- Leisurely photography and strolling: 1 to 1.5 hours (including the surrounding walking trails and Shirahige Falls)
- If you include sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (including visiting Shirogane Onsen and Biei tourist spots)
Nearby spots
- Shirahige Falls (Shirogane Falls): Located very close to the Blue Pond. You can walk around it on the same trail.
- Shirokane Observatory and Shirokane Hot Springs: Relax at the hot spring inn and observation spot.
- Biei's Patchwork Road: A driving course where you can enjoy the scenery of the hilly region (Ken and Mary Tree, Shikisai Hill, etc.)
- Furano: Seasonal tourist spots such as lavender fields (within a 30-60 minute drive, depending on the route)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets particularly crowded during the summer tourist season, the autumn foliage season, weekends, and holidays. Early mornings and evenings are relatively quiet.
- Parking/Transportation: Parking lots can be busy, so you may have to wait if they are full. Street parking is prohibited.
- Manners: Please do not enter the pond by straying from the walking trails or observation areas. Entering restricted areas is strictly prohibited to protect the natural environment.
- Photography etiquette: Please be considerate to other visitors and refrain from using tripods or other equipment. The use of tripods may be restricted during busy periods.
- Drones: Flying drones without permission may violate the rules and be considered a nuisance, so be sure to check and obtain permission in advance.
- Weather and road conditions: In winter, snow and frozen roads may occur, and road closures and winter tires and chains may be necessary. Don't forget to dress warmly.
- Check facility information: Bus operations, parking, and illuminations change depending on the season and year, so be sure to check official tourist information in advance for the latest information.
The Blue Pond is a spot where you can enjoy an extraordinary, beautiful landscape in a short amount of time. Please be sure to follow the guidelines for avoiding crowds and observe etiquette, and enjoy the different faces of the four seasons.
