Kaminoko Pond, located in Akan Mashu National Park in eastern Hokkaido, is a pond that is characterized by its beautiful, crystal-clear water surface, formed from the underground water of Lake Mashu. This pond is derived from Lake Mashu, which is also called “Kamuito (Lake of the Gods)” in the Ainu language, and is called “Child of the God Pond.” Lake Mashu is a unique lake with a stable water level because there are no rivers flowing into it or flowing out of it, and its abundant underground water supports Kaminoko Pond.
この投稿をInstagramで見る
Kaminoko Pond is a small pond with a circumference of 220m and a depth of 5m, and its underground water gushes out 12,000 tons of water a day.It boasts overwhelming transparency, and the water surface shines in a beautiful blue color throughout the year.
この投稿をInstagramで見る
The water temperature in this pond is around 8 degrees Celsius throughout the year, and because the water remains cold, fallen trees that have sunk to the bottom of the pond do not rot and remain as they are, like fossils. The sight of this fallen tree lying quietly in the blue water is mysterious and draws visitors in.
この投稿をInstagramで見る
In addition, the pond is home to Oshorokoma, also known as the “gem of the mountain stream,” which has distinctive bright red spots on its black body. The sight of the Oshorokoma swimming in the blue water of Kaminoko Pond creates a landscape that looks like a painting, and it harmonizes exquisitely with the cobalt blue water of the pond, captivating viewers.
この投稿をInstagramで見る
The water surface of Kaminoko Pond changes color depending on the weather and the angle of the sun, so it takes on a different look every time you visit. The scenery changes with the seasons, with emerald green and pale blue reflected on days with strong sunlight, and a calmer, deeper blue on cloudy days.
この投稿をInstagramで見る
In the spring, fresh greenery spreads around the pond, in the summer, the deep greenery brings out the blue water surface, and in the fall, the bright autumn leaves create a beautiful contrast. In winter, snow surrounds the pond, and the cobalt blue floating in the pure white creates a mystical scene, allowing visitors to experience the charm of each season.
この投稿をInstagramで見る
Kaminokoike Pond is easily accessible, being approximately 30 minutes by car from Kiyosato-cho town and 20 minutes by car from JR Midori Station, making it an easy location for tourists to visit. Managed as part of Akan-Mashu National Park, you can fully enjoy nature while enjoying the expansive forests and fresh air along the way. Although the area around the pond can be accessed by car, visitors can walk from the parking lot, allowing tourists to experience the beauty of Kaminoko Pond while strolling through nature.