By: Alex
Located in Biei Town, Hokkaido, the Blue Pond has gained international fame after being featured as the default wallpaper on Apple devices. The color of the pond changes with the seasons and time of day; on calm, windless days, the water turns into a mirror, reflecting the surrounding landscape. Recently, with heavy snowfall in Hokkaido, the frozen pond surface covered in snow offers yet another stunning view.
▲@Ikuko.A
Before 2013, the Blue Pond was closed during winter. However, starting December 2014, the pond has been open at night in winter, illuminated by lights (from sunset until 9 PM). In the darkness, the pure white snowscape is transformed under the lighting, turning the Blue Pond into a mysterious and romantic world. However, temperatures in Hokkaido during winter often drop below zero, and since the Blue Pond is located in an inland mountainous area, it tends to be even colder than the city. Be sure to dress warmly.
▲@masami
The Blue Pond is actually a man-made byproduct. After the eruption of Mount Tokachi in 1988, a dam was built to prevent mudflows. Several artificial ponds were created during the project, one of which is now the renowned Blue Pond. Due to nearby hot springs releasing water rich in aluminum, along with deposits of sulfur and lime, the bottom of the pond turned white. Coupled with the refraction of sunlight, this results in the cobalt-blue hue of the pond.
▲@makotom2
▲@S.Yasu Photography
▲@go_go_masa
▲@go_go_masa
▲@go_go_masa
▲@sei_chang
▲@fineph.zzz
▲@jolie0217
▲@Watanabe Yusuke/Nikonjp