Hokkaido | Biei Winter Blue Pond & Shirahige Falls Illumination Day Tour | Depart from Sapporo

Yes, the Biei Blue Pond is fully accessible in winter. It transforms into a serene, snow-covered landscape, offering a mystical experience. From November to January, a special winter illumination event lights up the pond, creating a spectacular and dreamy spectacle with varying colors and angles. In February and March, the pond is still accessible, though the illuminations may occur later in the evening.

The distinctive blue color of Biei Blue Pond is attributed to naturally occurring colloidal aluminum hydroxide particles suspended in the water. These particles scatter sunlight in a way that predominantly reflects blue light, similar to how the sky appears blue. This natural phenomenon, combined with the white snow, creates a unique and captivating visual effect, especially in winter.

The Biei area in winter offers several captivating attractions. Besides the iconic Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls, visitors can explore the enchanting Furano Forest Fairy Terrace (note: replaced by Furano Cheese Factory in November). The area also features popular photo spots like the peaceful Christmas tree nestled against snow-white hills and the romantic white birch corridor, creating a fairytale-like winter landscape.

For winter viewing of Biei Blue Pond, particularly from Sapporo, joining a guided day tour is highly recommended. These tours often provide comfortable, safe transportation, eliminating the hassle of navigating snowy roads and public transport schedules. They typically include visits to other key Biei attractions, offering a convenient and comprehensive experience without the stress of self-driving.

Reaching Shirahige Falls in winter typically involves combining public transport with local buses or joining a guided tour. From nearby towns like Biei or Furano, local buses can take you towards the Shirogane Onsen area where the falls are located. However, for a seamless and safe journey during snowy conditions, a guided tour from a major city like Sapporo is often the most practical and comfortable option.

Shirahige Falls is unique in winter due to its striking 'blue' waterfall effect and the partial formation of stunning icicles, creating a majestic display of nature. The water cascades down a cliff face, giving it a distinctive appearance. It often features a captivating illumination, highlighting the falls and surrounding snowscapes, transforming them into an ethereal winter spectacle for visitors to admire.

In addition to the Biei Blue Pond and Shirahige Falls, winter visitors can find excellent photo opportunities at the white birch forest, which transforms into a romantic, snowy corridor. Another picturesque spot is the Christmas tree, standing peacefully amidst Biei's snow-covered hills. The Furano Forest Fairy Terrace also provides a fairytale-like setting, ideal for capturing enchanting winter photographs.

The optimal period to experience the Biei Blue Pond's special winter illumination is typically from November to January. During these months, the pond is beautifully lit with lights of varying colors and angles, creating a spectacular and dreamy display. While accessible in February and March, the illuminations may occur later in the evening, so planning for the earlier winter months ensures the full experience.