The Blue Pond
The Blue Pond is one of Hokkaido's most iconic and surreal natural wonders. Famous for its striking turquoise-blue waters and hauntingly beautiful dead birch trees, this man-made pond was accidentally created in 1988 to protect the area from volcanic mudflows. Its ethereal beauty gained global fame after being featured as an Apple MacBook wallpaper. Today, it captivates photographers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a glimpse of Hokkaido's otherworldly landscapes.
Address: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan.
Nearest Major Cities:
Asahikawa: 25 km (40-minute drive).
Furano: 30 km (50-minute drive).
Sapporo: 160 km (2.5-hour drive).
Nearby Attractions:
Shirahige Waterfall (2 km away).
Shikisai-no-Oka (Seasonal Flower Fields, 15 km away).
Getting There
From Asahikawa:
By Car: Rent a car and drive via Route 966 (50 minutes). Highly recommended for flexibility.
By Bus: Take the Dohoku Bus from Asahikawa Station to Shirahige Onsen (approx. 1 hour). Walk 15 minutes to the pond. Check bus schedules in advance—limited service.
From Biei Town:
Taxi: 20-minute ride (approx. 3,000–4,000 JPY one-way).
Bicycle: Rentals available near Biei Station (1.5-hour scenic ride).
Private Tours:
Book a guided tour from Sapporo or Asahikawa. Combines the Blue Pond with nearby highlights like Furano's lavender fields.
Best Time to Visit
Winter (December–February): Snow blankets the area, creating a serene, monochromatic landscape. The pond occasionally freezes, and night illuminations add magic.
Spring (May–June): Vibrant greenery contrasts with the blue water.
Autumn (September–October): Golden foliage frames the pond.
Summer (July–August): Bright blue hues, but expect crowds.
Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for soft lighting and fewer tourists.
Top Photography Spots
Main Observation Deck: Classic view of the pond with birch trees.
Western Shore Path: Capture reflections of Mount Tokachi on calm days.
Winter Night Illumination (if available): Eerie blue glow under spotlights.
Local Food to Try
Hokkaido Dairy: Creamy milk, cheese, and ice cream from nearby farms.
Jingisukan: Grilled lamb dish, a Hokkaido specialty (try in Asahikawa).
Furano Melon: Juicy, sweet melons sold at roadside stands.
Soup Curry: Hearty curry with seasonal veggies (available in Biei/Furano).
The Blue Pond is a mesmerizing blend of nature's artistry and human coincidence. Whether you're photographing its dreamlike waters at dawn, marveling at its winter stillness, or pairing your visit with a soak in a nearby onsen, this site embodies Hokkaido's untamed beauty. While small in size, its impact is profound—a must-visit for anyone exploring Japan's northern wilderness.
The Blue Pond is one of Hokkaido's most iconic and surreal natural wonders. Famous for its striking turquoise-blue waters and hauntingly beautiful dead birch trees, this man-made pond was accidentally created in 1988 to protect the area from volcanic mudflows. Its ethereal beauty gained global fame after being featured as an Apple MacBook wallpaper. Today, it captivates photographers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a glimpse of Hokkaido's otherworldly landscapes.
Address: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan.
Nearest Major Cities:
Asahikawa: 25 km (40-minute drive).
Furano: 30 km (50-minute drive).
Sapporo: 160 km (2.5-hour drive).
Nearby Attractions:
Shirahige Waterfall (2 km away).
Shikisai-no-Oka (Seasonal Flower Fields, 15 km away).
Getting There
From Asahikawa:
By Car: Rent a car and drive via Route 966 (50 minutes). Highly recommended for flexibility.
By Bus: Take the Dohoku Bus from Asahikawa Station to Shirahige Onsen (approx. 1 hour). Walk 15 minutes to the pond. Check bus schedules in advance—limited service.
From Biei Town:
Taxi: 20-minute ride (approx. 3,000–4,000 JPY one-way).
Bicycle: Rentals available near Biei Station (1.5-hour scenic ride).
Private Tours:
Book a guided tour from Sapporo or Asahikawa. Combines the Blue Pond with nearby highlights like Furano's lavender fields.
Best Time to Visit
Winter (December–February): Snow blankets the area, creating a serene, monochromatic landscape. The pond occasionally freezes, and night illuminations add magic.
Spring (May–June): Vibrant greenery contrasts with the blue water.
Autumn (September–October): Golden foliage frames the pond.
Summer (July–August): Bright blue hues, but expect crowds.
Pro Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for soft lighting and fewer tourists.
Top Photography Spots
Main Observation Deck: Classic view of the pond with birch trees.
Western Shore Path: Capture reflections of Mount Tokachi on calm days.
Winter Night Illumination (if available): Eerie blue glow under spotlights.
Local Food to Try
Hokkaido Dairy: Creamy milk, cheese, and ice cream from nearby farms.
Jingisukan: Grilled lamb dish, a Hokkaido specialty (try in Asahikawa).
Furano Melon: Juicy, sweet melons sold at roadside stands.
Soup Curry: Hearty curry with seasonal veggies (available in Biei/Furano).
The Blue Pond is a mesmerizing blend of nature's artistry and human coincidence. Whether you're photographing its dreamlike waters at dawn, marveling at its winter stillness, or pairing your visit with a soak in a nearby onsen, this site embodies Hokkaido's untamed beauty. While small in size, its impact is profound—a must-visit for anyone exploring Japan's northern wilderness.
Private Car Tour and Chauffeur Service
As public transportation options to The Blue Pond are limited and often inconvenient, booking a private car charter is the best way to visit. This option allows you to travel in comfort and customize your itinerary to include nearby attractions. As a reliable limo company, we provide private car tours and chauffeur services in Hokkaido for international travelers.Related Articles You May Like
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Japan Office
- Tel: +81 50-3701-6391
- Email: info@japanholiday.com
- Working Hours: 8am-7pm, (Japan)
USA Office
- Tel: +1-6265617117
- Email: info@japanholiday.com
- Working Hours: 8am-7pm, Pacific Time
