The vivid blue color of the pond is believed to result from natural minerals dissolved in the water, particularly aluminum hydroxide, which reflects blue light. The presence of colloidal sulfur and other factors, such as the angle of sunlight also contribute to its unique coloration.
No, swimming is not allowed in the Biei Blue Pond. It is preserved as a natural attraction, and visitors are encouraged to enjoy its beauty from designated viewing areas.
The Biei Blue Pond is accessible by car or bus. If driving, it's located about a 20-minute drive from the center of Biei town. Public buses also run from Biei Station to the Blue Pond, but the frequency and schedule can vary depending on the season.
The Biei Blue Pond can be visited year-round, offering different scenic views each season. Summer (June to August) showcases the pond in its most vibrant blue, while winter (December to February) presents a magical snowy landscape. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to have softer light, enhancing photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed at the Biei Blue Pond, and it is a popular spot among photographers. However, the use of drones may be restricted or require permission. Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment and avoid disturbing other guests while taking photos.
Traveler reviews
Shirogane Blue Pond is famous for its unique turquoise blue water and peaceful atmosphere. The standing dead trees in the pond create a distinctive and photogenic view that changes with the seasons.
It’s conveniently located and very close to the main area, making it easy to visit. The walking paths are well maintained and perfect for taking photos. A worthwhile stop when visiting Biei. 💙
On sunny days, the water takes on a brilliant, jewel-like blue that looks just like a scene from a high-definition nature wallpaper. On cloudier days, the water shifts into a deep, mysterious, and serene shade of green. To capture the pond at its most radiant, I highly recommend planning your visit for a sunny day.
After taking in the view, be sure to visit the shop by the parking area. They offer a unique, "Blue Pond-inspired" soft-serve ice cream. Available in three distinct shades of blue and green, these ice creams beautifully mirror the varying colors of the pond as it appears under different weather conditions. It is a creative, delicious, and essential part of the Blue Pond experience.
Shirogane Blue Pond (白金青い池) is a famous pond in Biei known for its striking blue water and submerged tree trunks. The pond’s unique color is caused by mineral-rich water flowing from the nearby volcanic region. Its appearance changes with the weather and seasons. When we visited in early June 2026, there were a lot of tourists and it gets very busy.
Small pond in Biei, Hokkaido with that crazy bright blue water and trees popping out. It’s a man-made happy accident from a 1988 dam built to stop volcanic mudflows — water pooled up and nature did the rest with minerals for the color. Super photogenic spot, but kinda disappointing once you learn it’s not fully natural.
• Crowds: Packed with tourists going in and out, buses everywhere. Gets busy.
• The Blue: Hypnotic bottle-blue color — almost too perfect, and yeah, the pond itself is man-made.
• Photos: Selfies galore, you gotta fight a bit for a clean shot.
• The Visit: Just a big pond. Get in, look around, grab blue ice cream if you want, and bounce in 15-20 mins.
• Overall: Decent quick stop when you’re in the area.
Adding to the bloat of pictures. Went in June on a Friday. After biking around Biei, opted to return my bike and bus to the blue pond. Biking is an option, but rain was in the forecast and I really didn't relish the idea of being almost a two hour bike ride away from Biei in the rain.
Blue pond itself was crowded, but it took less than a minute to find an opening and secure since photos. Honestly, that's all I did. Popped in, admired the pond, took some photos, then off I was.
Instead of taking the bus from blue pond, it was about a 45 minute hike to Shirahige Waterfall. There is a dedicated path, separate from the road, and it was a pleasant walk. Very easy, no elevation gain. Shirogane fudo no taki Falls is along the way (though you need to cross the street to get to it).
If you're able to make the hike, this would be my absolute best recommendation for the area: bus to blue pond, hike to Shirahige waterfall (with a pit stop at Shirogane Falls), then bus back to Biei. Tip - this bus takes credit cards!
