Aoike: The Mesmerizing Blue Pond of Hokkaido

Shirogane Blue Pond was created by chance when a dam was built to protect Biei from mudflow damage. The pond reveals a different face in every season, from the Spring and Summer when the lush green surroundings contrast with the light blue water of the pond, to the Autumn when the fiery reds and yellows of the autumn leaves reflect in the pond’s surface and the depths of winter when the pond freezes over, turning the entire area into a white wonderland.

Located just a short drive from Biei, the Tsugaru Quasi-National Park, Lake Juniko (Twelve Lakes) is home to an expansive collection of lakes and ponds. One of the most popular of these bodies of water is Aoike (Blue Pond), known for its vividly clear, cobalt blue color which extends up to 9 meters in depth. This pond is punctuated with bright white withered trees that seemingly rise from its waters. During the Summer, the surrounding greenery gives the impression of having found a hidden fairy’s pond in the middle of the forest, while in the Winter, the contrast between the blue pond and the white snow on its frozen surface makes for a picturesque landscape. Be sure to visit during the Winter when the beauty of the pond is enhanced with nightly illuminations!