This pond, also known as Aoiike of Shirogane or Aoiike of Biei Shirogane, is located in Shirogane, Biei. It is an artificial pond built as part of a dam system designed to prevent volcanic disasters from Mt. Tokachi-dake in 1988. Unlike typical dams, this one doesn’t serve a functional purpose for water usage; instead, the water has accumulated by chance. The pond’s striking blue color is due to aluminum hydroxide from the local springs. When mixed with water from the Biei River, this creates an emulsion-like state, giving the pond its unique blue hue.
On weekends, the Blue Pond can be extremely crowded with long lines of cars, creating quite a commotion. Although the parking lot has been significantly expanded in recent years, there is only one access road, so parking can take some time.
When visiting, it is advisable to leave early in the morning to give yourself plenty of time.
The pond itself is not very large, so you can see everything in about 30 minutes. Another well-known attraction in the area is the open-air baths at Fukiage Onsen. These baths have gained popularity on Instagram and other social media platforms in recent years.
Additionally, Shirogane Onsen is nearby, making it a good option to stay overnight and enjoy the hot springs at a leisurely pace.
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