An Ethereal Wonder in Biei
Blue Pond, located in the town of Biei in Hokkaido, is one of Japan’s most photographed wonders. The pond gained international fame when Apple selected it as a wallpaper for macOS, introducing its otherworldly beauty to millions worldwide. What makes this destination truly remarkable is its striking cobalt blue water and the skeletal larch trees that rise hauntingly from its surface, creating an almost surreal landscape.
Blue Pond is manmade, created as part of an erosion control project following the 1988 eruption of Mount Tokachi in an attempt to stop mudslides. The pond’s distinctive blue color comes from aluminum hydroxide particles in the water, which reflect shorter wavelengths of light. These same particles create the milky, opaque quality that gives the water its dreamlike appearance.
The pond spans approximately 500 meters in length and maintains its color throughout the year, though the intensity varies with seasons and weather conditions. On sunny days, the blue becomes particularly vibrant, while cloudy weather produces softer, more pastel tones. Photographers and nature enthusiasts flock here year-round to capture this unique landscape, which looks different with each visit.
Best Times To Visit Blue Pond
While Blue Pond is accessible year-round, each season offers a distinct experience. Spring and summer (May through August) showcase the most intense blue colors, particularly on clear days when sunlight illuminates the water. The surrounding birch forests are lush and green during these months, providing beautiful contrast to the blue water.
Autumn (September through October) brings golden and orange foliage that frames the pond spectacularly. Winter transforms Blue Pond into a magical scene, with the trees covered in frost and the pond sometimes frozen over. From November through February, evening illumination events light up the pond and trees, creating an enchanting nighttime spectacle. Early morning visits offer the calmest water surface and fewer crowds, ideal for photography.