Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike), Suo Travel Guide

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Discover the enchanting Shirogane Blue Pond in Biei, Hokkaido: a unique, man-made marvel with stunning blue waters and captivating seasonal scenery.

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Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike)

The Shirogane Blue Pond is an artificial pond in Biei, Hokkaido, known for its surreal blue waters. Created accidentally after the 1988 eruption of Mount Tokachi, it has become a popular scenic spot, drawing visitors with its unique beauty that changes with the seasons.

A brief summary to Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike)

Shirogane, Biei, Shirogane, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido, 071-0235, JP
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Monday 7 am-7 pm
Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
Thursday 7 am-7 pm
Friday 7 am-7 pm
Saturday 7 am-7 pm
Sunday 7 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike).

Visit during summer for the most vibrant blue water, enhanced by clear skies and lush green surroundings.
Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Shirahige Falls, which contributes to the pond's unique blue color.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the pond's color is best viewed on sunny days.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the paths around the pond, which can be uneven in places.

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Getting There

Bus

From JR Biei Station, take the Dohoku Bus bound for Shirogane Onsen. Get off at the Shirogane Aoiike Iriguchi bus stop, approximately a 20-25 minute ride. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the pond. The bus fare is approximately ¥550 one way. Note that the bus schedule is limited, with only five round trips per day, so plan accordingly.
Car

From Biei Station, the Shirogane Blue Pond is about a 20-25 minute drive. Follow the signs for prefectural road number 966 towards Shirogane Onsen. There is a paid parking lot near the pond. Parking costs ¥500 for cars, ¥1,000 for microbuses (29 seats or less), and ¥2,000 for buses (30 seats or more). From the parking lot, it is a short walk to the pond.

Discover more about Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike)

The Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike) is a captivating destination in Biei, Hokkaido, celebrated for its mesmerizing blue hue. This artificial pond was unintentionally formed following the 1988 eruption of Mount Tokachi, when a dam was constructed to prevent volcanic mudflows from reaching the town of Biei. The dam blocked the Biei River, leading to the creation of the now-famous Blue Pond.The pond's distinctive blue color is attributed to the presence of aluminum hydroxide and other natural minerals from the nearby Shirahige Falls and Shirogane Onsen hot spring. These minerals scatter sunlight in a unique way, resulting in the water's striking blue appearance, which can vary from a milky light blue to a deep turquoise depending on the weather and season. Submerged Japanese larch and silver birch trees add to the pond's mystical atmosphere, their withered appearance creating an otherworldly landscape.Throughout the year, the Shirogane Blue Pond offers diverse scenery. In spring, the pond reflects a greenish-blue tint from the melting snow. Summer brings a vibrant light blue that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery. Autumn adds red and yellow foliage to the landscape. Winter transforms the pond into a silvery-white wonderland, with illuminations enhancing its magical appeal from November to April. Visitors can explore the pond via walking paths, with facilities including a souvenir shop and public toilets available.