Biei Blue Pond : Hokkaido’s blue sapphire
Driving 20-30 minutes to the east from the center of Biei Town, the “Blue Pond” appears by the side of the Biei River flowing suddenly through the forest area. This pond became popular having been used as an advertisment wallpaper for Apple. It became a famous tourist attraction for the past few years. This pond appeared after the eruption of Mount Tokachidake but is also partly artificial.
In May 1926, Mount Tokachidake erupted and provoqued a tragic lahar that flowed along the Furano valley and destroyed everything on its way. In order to protect the city of Biei and Shirogane onsen located at the foot of the mountain, a dam has been built to protect human life from the volcano mud. The blue pond is the reservoir containing the water of the river behind the dam.
The reason why the water in the pond turns blue is said to be related to the water from the Shirokane Onsen in the upstream area of the blue pond. Colloids are produced when water containing aluminum is mixed with the river water of the Biei River. Also, when sunlight collides with colloidal particles in water, blue light with a short wavelength is scattered. It is thought that these “light mechanisms” act to make a certain section of the Biei River and the water in the pond appear blue.
【When to visit】
Sunny is the best time to pay a visit the blue pond. Blue color is emphasized by reflecting the blue sky. If it is cloudy, the bluish color will not be strong, but you can still enjoy the blueness. However, it is not recommended on a rainy day or the day after the rain because the water is agitated and muddy. This spot is gaining popularity year by year, and free parking spaces have been expanded. It's crowded especially on Saturdays and Sundays, so early morning is recommended if you want to avoid congestion. In the morning the air itself is bluish and the trees in the pond look also blue.
Behind the pond is a mountain, and when the sun appears from the top and lights the water, you will be surrounded by a mysterious atmosphere. Formerly, the blue pond was forbidden to access during winter at night but since 2015, illuminations are organised from November to late February, from 5pm to 9pm. After 9pm, please note that it is not possible to access it.
Nowadays, the blue pond is sometimes victim of its popularity, and many people try to break the ice with big stones and spoil the scenery. It is important to let each one enjoy a pleasant and calm moment in its beautiful environment.
【The source of Blue pond and Hot spring】The ”Shirohige Falls” flows in Shirokane Onsen, a hot spring village located about 2.5 km from the blue pond to the mountain side. Formerly, Masumi Takahashi, a photographer from Kamifurano, called this river “Blue River” . Shirohige Falls is a spot recommended to visit. There you will see a submerged basin where groundwater falls from the rift of the lava rocks. It is very interesting to see how the white flowing water pours into the river and turns blue as soon as it flows into the basin. Seeing Shirohige Falls is only possible from the Blue River Bridge built in the hot springs village.
Like the blue pond, this waterfall is also lit up in winter. It is aslo recommended to visit Shirogane Onsen, which has a history from the early 20th century. The village was once destroyed by the lahar of the Tokachidake eruption. However, in 1950 Shirokane Onsen revived brilliantly. This hot spring is called “Forget Cane” and is effective for neuralgia, chronic digestive tract disease, chronic skin disease, etc. It is a small hot spring village loved by climbers who climb Mt. Tokachi and Biei Fuji.
【Unique Souvenirs】It's also interesting to buy not only popular souvenir, but also humorous souvenirs that people sometimes get surprised. Biei's “Blue Pond Cider” and “Blue Pond Caramel” are surprisingly recommended items to enjoy on the spot. A cider that betrays the expectation from the appearance in a good way, with a refreshing lemon flavor. It tastes like a candy on hot summer days. In addition, caramel has a nostalgic sweetness and scent that will make children happy. Both are reasonably priced, so they are perfect as an another souvenir. These Biei ciders are limited to local products that are handled only in Biei, and part of the sales will be donated to Biei to preserve the scenery.
【Access】
Shirokane, Biei-chō, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido (Several places for free parking)
By Car:
17km from JR Hokkaido Biei station（Approx. 20min）
145km from Sapporo Center via Kenō Expressway (Approx. 2hr30min)
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