Depending on the season and time, ponds unveil a spectrum of colors. From transparent ponds revealing the depths below to those reflecting the surrounding trees, there are myriad spectacular scenes to immerse oneself in the mysteries of the world!
Today, Japan RAR presents recommended ponds from all across Japan. Immerse your soul in nature and let it heal ♡
【Hokkaido】青い池（Aoi Pond）
Amidst the myriad magnificent landscapes of Hokkaido, this enigmatic attraction stands out. The pond's hues shift with the seasons, weather, and time, earning it the moniker "Biei Blue" due to its breathtaking beauty.
One of its charms lies in the kaleidoscope of colors it presents each season. Be it the verdant greens of summer, the autumnal red hues, or the winter's snowy scenes, the sight of the confluence with fallen leaves and pine trees is truly worth beholding!
The optimal visiting period is from July to August when the lake surface sparkles even more. Limited-time illumination events are held from November to April.
[Address] Higashikawa, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
[Operating Hours] May to October: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM November to April: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
[Access] From JR Furano Line, get off at Biei Station, then take the Dohoku Bus to the Shirogane Blue Pond Entrance Bus Stop, 10 minutes on foot.
【Hokkaido】神の子池（Kaminoko Pond）
Located near Lake Mashu, Kaminoko Pond is a pond with exceptional transparency. It is hailed as a must-visit scenic spot and has gained popularity as an energy site with relaxing effects.
The water is remarkably clear, allowing a clear view of the pond's bottom, and the colors transform with varying angles of light. Integrated with the surrounding trees, it creates a dreamlike ambiance. Summer is particularly recommended for a visit, as transparency is enhanced.
While exploring the small pond, don't forget to visit the Mashu Observatory! From this vantage point overlooking Lake Mashu, you can enjoy the expansive scenery unique to Hokkaido.
[Address] Kiyosato-cho, Shari-gun, Hokkaido, Japan
[Access] About 20 minutes by car from JR Senmo Main Line Masyu Station.
【[Aomori Prefecture】蔦沼（Tsutanuma Marsh）
Tsutanuma Marsh is a scenic spot located within the Towada National Park, offering a vibrant landscape of lush greenery and autumn foliage throughout the year. The pond is surrounded by birch trees, creating a tranquil atmosphere and providing a space for relaxation.
Highly recommended during the autumn foliage season, the entire area is bathed in shades of orange. On calm days, you can witness a spectacular mirror-like reflection. The beauty is enhanced during the early morning sunrise, gleaming under the sunlight, creating a captivating sight.
Around the Tsutanuma Marsh, there is a promenade for leisurely strolls. The ideal time for a visit is in the morning to avoid crowds!
[Address] Tsutanoyu, Ase, Towada City, Aomori, Japan
[Access] Train + Bus: Take the JR Bus "Mizuumi-go" from JR Tohoku Shinkansen Shin-Aomori Station, get off at Towada Onsen Bus Stop, and walk approximately 5 minutes.
【Niigata Prefecture】竜ヶ窪（Ryugakubo Water Spring）
Located in a natural conservation area, 竜ヶ窪（Ryugakubo Water Spring）, also known as the "Never-Muddying Pond," is a beautiful pond historically used by local residents for daily water needs. It has been selected as one of Japan's top hundred waters due to its high-quality and abundant spring water.
The highlight here is the beauty of the emerald green water surface. When the wind is calm, the trees around the pond are reflected, creating a spectacular mirrored landscape. The mystical world is sure to purify your soul ♡
The water from Ryugakubo Water Spring is popular as drinking water, and visitors can take some home. Be sure to give it a try when you visit!
[Address] Taniuchi 6217, Tsunan-machi, Nakauonuma-gun, Niigata, Japan
[Closed] Winter Season
[Access] About 15 minutes by car from JR Iiyama Line Tsunan Station.
【Yamanashi Prefecture】Oshino Hakkai
With the changing seasons and time, the ponds of Oshino Hakkai showcase a variety of colors. From transparent ponds revealing the lakebed to those reflecting the surrounding trees, there are many spectacular scenes to experience in the mysterious world! We will introduce recommended ponds from all over Japan; immerse your soul in nature's healing embrace.
Oshino Hakkai is designated as a National Natural Monument and is one of Japan's selected hundred famous waters, blessed with precious spring water. Sourced from the underground waters of Mount Fuji, its water quality is among the highest in Japan.
As the name suggests, it consists of eight ponds, each with its unique charm. Highly recommended is the "Mirror Pond," renowned for its inverted reflection of Mount Fuji. With high transparency, you can witness the beautiful reflection of Mount Fuji, creating a truly spectacular scene filled with the essence of Japan!
Believed to be a dwelling place of deities, it has gained popularity as an energy spot. Enjoy a stroll while savoring local delicacies, making sure to indulge in the region's specialty foods.
[Address] Oshinosato, Oshino Village, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi, Japan
[Access] Take the Fujisan Limited Express Bus from Fujisan Station to the Fujisan Express Bus Gotemba Station - Walk about 5 minutes from the Oshino Hakkai Bus Station.
【Nagano Prefecture】白駒の池（Shirakoma Pond）
Shirakoma Pond is a natural pond surrounded by the pristine forests of the Northern Alps, situated at an elevation of over 2,000 meters, making it Japan's largest pond. The surrounding area is designated as the "Precious Moss Forest of Japan," exuding a mysterious atmosphere with healing effects.
Thanks to its high transparency, on clear, windless days, the trees of the forest and the sky are reflected on the water's surface. Particularly during the autumn foliage season, you can witness a 360-degree gradient of red and yellow, creating a breathtakingly beautiful sight. Stargazing is also a popular activity in this serene location.
Around Shirakoma Pond, there are walking trails suitable for children and women, offering an easy and enjoyable hiking experience.
[Address] Nagano Prefecture, Minamisaku District, Sakuho Town - Minamisaku District, Koma Town
[Access] From JR Koumi Line Yasuoka Station, take the Chikuma Bus (towards Maekawa Toge) to the Hakuba Pond Entrance Bus Stop - Walk approximately 15 minutes.
【Nagano Prefecture】御射鹿池（Mishakaike Pond）
Misyaka Ike is situated within the Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen Quasi-National Park and stands as one of Nagano's most picturesque spots, often hailed as one of Japan's most beautiful ponds. The reflection of surrounding trees on its surface is so enchanting that it has become a globally discussed topic.
Its allure lies in the ever-changing colors throughout the seasons. Visitors can marvel at spectacular scenes of fresh greenery, autumn foliage, and snowy landscapes, attracting numerous tourists. Another highlight is the varying views throughout the day based on the sun's position and weather conditions.
The optimal time for a visit is in the early morning. If fortunate, you may witness the mesmerizing scene of morning mist lingering.
[Address] Okutateshina, Chino City, Nagano, Japan
[Access]
About 40 minutes by car from JR Chuo Main Line Chino Station
About 30 minutes by car from Chuo Expressway Suwa IC
【Gifu Prefecture】モネの池（Monet's Pond）
モネの池 (Monet's Pond), originally named Namonaki Ike (Nameless Pond), is one of Japan's most picturesque ponds, reminiscent of foreign artworks. Due to its beautiful scenery resembling the works of Claude Monet, it is colloquially known as "Monet's Pond."
Thanks to its extreme transparency, the blooming water lilies and swimming carp in the pond appear as if floating in the air. The best season to appreciate the water lilies is from June to September, offering breathtaking views.
Additionally, the Monet's Pond is surrounded by abundant nature, making it an ideal place to unwind. It is recommended to visit in the early morning when the flowers are in full bloom!
[Address] Shiratani, Itatori, Seki City, Gifu, Japan
[Access] Bus: JR Tokaido Main Line Gifu Station - Itatori Community Bus - Walk from Shiratani Ajisai Garden Bus Stop
【Yamaguchi Prefecture】別府弁天池 (Beppu Benten Pond)
Beppu Benten Pond is crystal clear, displaying an impressively sparkling emerald green color. It boasts one of Japan's clearest seawaters, with a temperature of 14 degrees Celsius, recognized by the Ministry of the Environment as one of Japan's top 100 waters.
The highlight is the changing color of the water surface based on the angle of sunlight. Deeper areas exhibit darker hues, while shallower regions showcase lighter colors, allowing you to revel in a beautiful gradient effect. On sunny days, the even reflection of light presents a magnificent spectacle akin to a jewel box.
You can also enjoy the pleasure of rainbow trout fishing in the affiliated fishing pond, and the fish you catch will be cooked on the spot.
[Address] Beppu Mizuki, Akiyoshi-cho, Mine City, Yamaguchi, Japan
[Access] Bus: JR Sanyo Main Line Shin-Yamaguchi Station → Sotochoshu Bus (towards Akiyoshido) - 15 minutes from the last stop
【Okinawa Prefecture】通り池（Toriike Pond）
Toriike Pond is located on Shimojishima, part of the Miyako Islands, and is a mysterious energy spot created by various conditions. The Twin Ponds connected to the sea are extremely rare, recognized as a National Natural Monument in 2006 to commemorate its value.
The deep blue color is highly captivating and draws you in. The changing blue over time creates a breathtakingly beautiful and mysterious landscape. This location is also a renowned diving spot, so if you have diving experience, it's worth giving it a try!
In addition, you can appreciate various sceneries, including unique Okinawan plants and planes taking off from Shimojishima Airport.
[Address] Iraha, Miyakojima City, Okinawa, Japan
[Access] About 35 minutes by car from Miyako Airport via Irabu Ohashi Bridge
Let's embark on a leisurely pond tour!
There are many ponds with breathtaking views. Their appearance changes with the seasons and throughout the day, so you can enjoy them no matter how many times you visit.
Just looking at them can soothe your soul, so if you want to cleanse your mood, please come and visit!
