Shirogane Blue Pond

Shirogane Blue Pond in Biei, Hokkaido, is a popular tourist destination in Japan and overseas, offering a fantastical landscape that feels like stepping into another world. Its water shimmers in a captivating blue known as “BIEI BLUE,” enchanting all who visit.

Origin and Background of the Pond
Shirogane Blue Pond was created accidentally when water collected in a block dam built on the Biei River as a flood-control measure to prevent debris-flow damage caused by the 1988 eruption of Mount Tokachi. It was not created with the intention of making a blue pond, but its mysteriously beautiful blue color drew attention, and it has now become one of Biei Town’s most iconic scenic spots.

Around the pond, dead larch trees stand in rows, and their reflection on the water, combined with the blue surface, creates an extraordinarily dreamlike view.

Why It Looks Blue
The water in Shirogane Blue Pond is believed to appear blue because water containing aluminum from sources such as the Siergane River upstream of the Shirogane Onsen area merges with the waters of the Biei River, generating invisible fine particles called colloids.

When sunlight hits these colloids, the shorter-wavelength blue light is scattered more strongly, making the pond appear blue to our eyes. It is also said that the white volcanic soil spread across the pond bottom reflects light, further enhancing the blue color.

This mystical blue changes subtly depending on the weather, time of day, and season. In particular, a clear, windless morning is the best time to visit, as the water surface is calm and clear, allowing you to see the most beautiful blue.

Seasonal Appeal
Shirogane Blue Pond is also known for showing a different face in every season. One of its greatest attractions is that it offers a different charm no matter when you visit.

Spring (April–May)
In spring, snowmelt flows into the pond, giving the water a slightly greenish “green blue” hue. The contrast with the fresh new greenery is beautiful, allowing you to feel the pure breath of spring. As it is still a chilly season, be sure to prepare for the cold and wear footwear with good traction.

Summer (June–August)
Summer is the season when the blue of the water appears most vivid. On clear days, the pond’s light blue surface spreads out before you, standing out beautifully against the deep green surrounding forest. Early summer, especially from mid-May to late June, is a particularly popular time to visit, as the water is especially clear.

Autumn (September–November)
In autumn, the trees around the pond turn brilliant colors, allowing visitors to enjoy the combination of autumn foliage and the blue pond. The best viewing period for the fall colors is usually from late October to early November, when the vibrant scenery harmonizes wonderfully with the blue of the pond, creating a spectacular view.

Winter (December–April)
In winter, the pond freezes completely, and the entire area becomes a silver-white world covered in snow. The sight of the dead larch trees and snowy landscape together creates the impression of another silent, otherworldly realm.

Night illumination is also held annually from November to April, and the frozen pond and surrounding snow are lit up to create an enchanting atmosphere. With multiple lighting patterns, you can enjoy a “story of light” that changes approximately every 10 minutes. Under the clear winter night sky, sparkling stars add to the magical experience.

Nearby Attractions
Near Shirogane Blue Pond is another popular destination, Shirahige Waterfall. Located right next to Shirogane Onsen, this powerful waterfall features groundwater emerging from between the rocks and cascading down a cliff about 30 meters high.

This waterfall is also beautiful in every season, and in winter especially, icicles hang down while snow covers the entire falls, creating a scene like an ice sculpture. It is also illuminated in winter, making the nighttime atmosphere even more fantastical.

Notes for Visitors and Parking Tax
As Shirogane Blue Pond has grown in popularity, attracting many tourists, Biei Town introduced the “Blue Pond Parking Lot Use Tax” system in 2025 as a measure to address overtourism.

This was the first such system introduced in Hokkaido, and its purpose is to collect a tax from tourists using the parking lot and use the revenue for environmental conservation and the maintenance and management of tourist facilities.

When visiting, please understand this system and enjoy your trip while respecting the rules and etiquette.

Shirogane Blue Pond is a mystical scenic wonder created by the accidental workings of nature. From the fresh greenery of spring, the clear blue of summer, the autumn leaves of fall, to the snowy scenery of winter, it offers completely different expressions in each season. The scientific mechanism behind its blue shimmering surface is also fascinating, and its beauty is unforgettable once seen.

There are also hot springs, waterfalls, and other attractions nearby, making it ideal not only for a day trip but also for a relaxing stay in Biei Town to fully enjoy nature. Experience the world of “BIEI BLUE” for yourself while taking in the beauty of the changing seasons.