Shirogane Blue Pond

Shirogane Blue Pond is located in Biei, in central Hokkaido Prefecture. The Shirogane Blue pond is artificial pond with a soothing cobalt blue shimmer under the right conditions. The Shirogane Blue bond can be found next to the Biei River. 

The pond was created following the Eruption of Mt. Tokachi in 1988, when a dam was built to nullify the effects of erosion from the volcanic mudflow. Today, the nutrient-rich pond is renowned for its stunning colour and picturesque reflections. As a result of the creation of the dam, many ponds formed along the Biei river, which flows from the nearby, and also famous Shirahige Waterfall.

The water takes its beautiful blue colour from the naturally occurring minerals in the ground, which come as a result of the volcanic surroundings and the sulphur from geothermal vents scattered about. This is a geothermal active area, and as such, many of the nearby hotels have naturally heated hot pools (onsens) for you to soak in and enjoy. 

Entry to the Shirogane Blue Pond is free, but there is a paid parking lot which costs 500JPY for cars. The walking path at the pond is spacious, open, an easy to get around. There is also a small souvenir shop and public toilets found on-site.