Shirogane Blue Pond: Visiting Hokkaido's Famous Cobalt-Blue Volcanic Pond

Shirogane Blue Pond: What Makes It Blue

Shirogane Blue Pond (白金青い池) is an artificial pond near Biei in central Hokkaido that looks like someone poured cobalt-blue dye into a forest clearing. The color is real, and the science behind it is surprisingly specific.

According to the Biei Tourism Association, the pond was created by an erosion-control dam built to protect against mudflows from Mount Tokachi, an active volcano upstream. Hot spring water from nearby Shirahige Falls (白ひげの滝) carries dissolved aluminum, which forms colloidal aluminum hydroxide particles when it mixes with the cooler river water. These microscopic particles scatter sunlight — producing the vivid blue.

The pond gained global recognition when Apple used a photograph of it as a default macOS wallpaper, turning a local curiosity into an international destination. For more scenic viewpoints across the island, see our Hokkaido scenic view guide. For photography-specific tips on capturing the pond, see our Blue Pond photography guide.

Best Times and Seasons to Visit

Summer: Peak Blue Color

The blue color is most vivid from June through September, when sunlight is strongest and the water is clear. Early morning on a sunny day produces the deepest cobalt tones — by afternoon, the angle of light and potential cloud cover can reduce the intensity.

Summer is also the busiest season. The pond's fame draws tour buses and independent travelers, particularly on weekends. Visit on a weekday morning before 10:00 for the best combination of color and manageable crowds.

In summer, combine Blue Pond with a visit to Farm Tomita's lavender fields in nearby Furano — about 30 minutes by car.

Autumn and Spring: Quieter Visits

Autumn (October-November) adds foliage color to the surrounding birch and larch trees, creating a different palette alongside the blue water. The blue may be slightly less vivid than peak summer but the overall scene is arguably more photogenic.

Spring (May-June) brings fresh green foliage and fewer crowds. The blue color builds as snowmelt settles and aluminum particles accumulate.

Winter brings a completely different experience — see the illumination section below.

Walking Path, Facilities, and Nearby Shirahige Falls

The Path to the Pond

From the parking lot, a walking path leads to the pond viewing area in approximately 5-10 minutes. According to the Biei Tourism Association blog, the path includes a steep section with stairs. Wear sturdy shoes — the path can be slippery when wet.

The viewing area has no benches. You walk to the pond edge, take in the view, and return. Plan 20-30 minutes for the pond itself.

A small cafe and gift shop near the parking area sell blue-themed products including soft-serve ice cream. Both close at approximately 16:00 — they are not open during evening illumination events.

Shirahige Falls and Shirogane Onsen

Shirahige Falls (白ひげの滝) is the source of the aluminum-rich water that creates the Blue Pond's color. The falls are just a 2-minute walk from the Blue Pond area and worth the short detour. Below the falls, the river itself runs blue — sometimes called the "Blue River."

Shirogane Onsen (白金温泉) is a hot spring area adjacent to the Blue Pond, offering a post-visit soak. Several ryokan and day-use bathing facilities operate in the onsen area. After walking the steep path in summer heat or winter cold, a hot spring bath is a natural next step.

Winter Illumination

From approximately mid-November through mid-February, the Blue Pond site hosts a winter illumination event. The pond itself is largely snow-covered and the blue water is not visible — instead, LED lights illuminate the snow-laden trees surrounding the frozen pond, creating an ethereal winter landscape.

The illumination runs primarily on Friday, Saturday, and holiday evenings. Admission to the illumination is free, though guided tours from the Biei Tourist Center (approximately ¥3,600 per adult) are available and recommended — they include transport and a combined visit to illuminated Shirahige Falls.

Winter practical notes:

• The walking path is steep and icy. Bring ice grips for your shoes and a flashlight.
• The cafe and gift shop are closed during evening illumination hours.
• Heated restrooms are available.
• Check the last bus departure time before visiting — missing the bus means being stranded. Tour packages solve this problem.
• Parking lot hours extend to 21:30 in winter for illumination visitors.

Getting to Blue Pond from Biei and Asahikawa

By bus from Biei Station: Dohoku Bus (道北バス) runs from Biei Station to the Blue Pond area in approximately 20 minutes, costing ¥800 (~$5) one-way. Buses run every 1-2 hours. The bus stop is a 2-minute walk from the station.

By car from Biei: About 20 minutes. Parking costs ¥500 (~$3) for regular cars. The lot holds approximately 220 cars plus 20 bus spaces. MAP CODE for car navigation: 349 568 888. Parking lot hours: 7:00-19:00 (May-September), 8:00-21:30 (October-April).

From Asahikawa: Take the JR Furano Line to Biei Station (approximately 40 minutes), then bus to Blue Pond. Or drive directly — approximately 1 hour from Asahikawa.

From Sapporo: Drive approximately 2.5-3 hours via the Doto Expressway. Alternatively, train to Asahikawa (1.5 hours by limited express) then transfer to Biei (40 minutes) and bus.

Admission to the pond is free — you pay only for parking.