Aoi Pond, Hokkaido Travel Guide

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Discover the enchanting Aoi Pond in Biei, Hokkaido: a unique, man-made marvel with breathtaking blue waters and serene natural beauty.

Aoi Pond (Blue Pond) in Biei, Hokkaido, is a mesmerizing, man-made pond known for its striking blue color, a result of natural minerals and the serene, almost surreal atmosphere created by the surrounding birch trees. Originally created as part of an erosion control system, it has become a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers.

A brief summary to Aoi Pond

Shirogane, Biei, Shirogane, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido, JP

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Aoi Pond.

Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning colors and reflections.
Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Consider visiting in different seasons to see the pond's beauty transform.
Respect the natural environment by staying on marked trails.

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Explore Aoi Pond on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Aoi Pond, mapped for you.

Getting There

Bus

To reach Aoi Pond via public transport, take the Dohoku Bus from Biei Station (bus stop is in front of Asahikawa Shinkin Bank) towards Shirogane Onsen. Get off at the 'Shirogane Aoiike Iriguchi' bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes. From the bus stop, it's a 5-10 minute walk to the pond. The one-way bus fare is around ¥540. Be mindful of the limited bus schedule.
Car

If driving, Aoi Pond is located along prefectural road number 966, connecting Biei with Tokachidake Onsen via Shirogane Onsen. A parking lot is available next to the road, a 5-10 minute walk from the pond. Parking costs ¥500 per car.

Discover more about Aoi Pond

Aoi Pond, also known as Blue Pond, is located in Biei, Hokkaido, and offers visitors a unique and enchanting experience. This man-made pond was created following the 1988 eruption of Mount Tokachi as part of a dam system designed to prevent volcanic mudflows from reaching the town of Biei. Ironically, the pond's captivating blue color isn't intentional but a happy accident caused by colloidal aluminum hydroxide and other minerals present in the water due to the nearby Shirahige Falls. These minerals reflect sunlight, resulting in the stunning blue hue that varies in intensity depending on the season, weather, and time of day.The pond is surrounded by Japanese larch and silver birch trees, many of which are submerged in the water, creating an ethereal and slightly melancholic landscape. The contrast between the blue water and the white birch trunks enhances the pond's beauty, making it a favorite subject for photographers. A walking path allows visitors to explore the pond from different angles, offering various vantage points for capturing the perfect shot.In winter, the pond freezes over, often covered in snow, and is illuminated at night with blue lights, creating a magical winter wonderland. During the warmer months, the pond reflects the surrounding greenery and autumn foliage, providing a vibrant and colorful spectacle. The best time to visit for the bluest waters is typically from May to June, especially in the morning on a clear, sunny day.