Shirogane Blue Pond (Aoiike) is a man-made pond in the Shirogane area of Biei, Hokkaido, famous for its vivid cobalt-blue water caused by aluminum particles that scatter light. It formed when water pooled behind an erosion-control dam built after volcanic activity on Mt. Tokachidake, and its color shifts with the weather, season, and angle of sunlight. The bright-blue Shirahige Falls sits about 3 km away and pairs well as a combined visit.
The surreal cobalt-blue surface created by aluminum colloids scattering light, dotted with the silhouettes of dead larch trees rising from the water
Shirahige Falls, where groundwater bursts from cliff crevices and plunges roughly 30 m into the blue Biei River (about 5 minutes away by car)
Late-autumn color contrast (roughly early-to-mid October) as birch and larch turn gold against the blue water
Early morning (before 7:00) for calm mirror-like reflections, soft light, and thinner crowds — the best time for photos
Winter night illumination (late October–April), when LED lights bathe the snow-covered, frozen surface and trees in a dreamlike glow (confirm current dates and times)
Good to know
RulesDo not enter the pond or step off the designated boardwalk and paths. The ecosystem is fragile and entering damages the colloidal particles that produce the color.
SeasonFrom around December to early April the surface is covered with snow and ice, so the blue water is not visible — only the snowscape. For the vivid blue, late spring to early summer (late May–early July) is most intense (confirm current conditions).
SafetyWinter roads can be icy and dangerous — studless winter tires or chains are essential, and the walking paths get slippery when wet or frozen. Waterproof boots and warm layers are strongly recommended.
MannersOn narrow sections of the path, keep tripods clear of other visitors and always carry your trash out — littering has been reported here in recent years.
RulesDrone flying may be restricted given the pond's proximity to national-park zones; check with the Biei Tourism Association before flying.
SafetyHarsh midday sun washes out the blue and makes the water look pale. Overcast conditions or the morning bring out the color best.
Practical info
Parking: ¥500 per car (roughly 220–270 cars, plus ~20 buses). Lot hours are approximately 7:00–19:00 (May–Sep) and 8:00–21:30 (Oct–Apr) — confirm current times. Entry is free. Access: about 20 min from JR Biei Station by Dohoku Bus (~¥550 one-way, only a few runs per day), or about 30 min by car from Asahikawa Airport. From the lot it is a 5–10 min walk to the viewpoint, including a stair section. A rental car is easiest, but local Biei rentals may close in winter — check ahead.
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