Saroj SurkhetiIntroduction
Whenever people talk about the beautiful lakes and ponds of Fukushima, one place is mentioned almost every time—Bishamonnuma Pond. Located in the peaceful Urabandai area of Fukushima Prefecture, this stunning pond is the largest and most famous among the many ponds that make up the Goshikinuma Ponds Trail. While many visitors stop here before starting the full hiking trail, Bishamonnuma itself is worth visiting even if you have no plans to hike.
I visited Bishamonnuma in early July with only one goal—to spend a relaxing morning exploring the pond, rowing a boat, and enjoying its famous blue water. What I expected to be a short visit turned into one of the most peaceful experiences of my trip through Fukushima.
If you are planning to visit Urabandai, this guide will help you understand what makes Bishamonnuma special and what you can expect during your visit.
Where is Bishamonnuma Pond?
Bishamonnuma Pond is located in the scenic Urabandai region of Fukushima Prefecture. It is one of several volcanic ponds created after the eruption of Mount Bandai in 1888. Today, the area is known as the Goshikinuma Ponds, which literally means “Five Colored Ponds.”
Although there are many ponds along the hiking trail, Bishamonnuma is the most popular because of its size, easy accessibility, and incredible water color.
The pond is located right near the main entrance of the Goshikinuma Trail, making it accessible for everyone, including visitors who simply want to enjoy the scenery without hiking.
Why is Bishamonnuma Pond So Famous?
The biggest attraction of Bishamonnuma is undoubtedly its water.
Unlike ordinary lakes, the pond changes its appearance throughout the day. Depending on the weather, sunlight, season, and viewing angle, the water may appear:
- Emerald green
- Turquoise blue
- Deep sapphire
- Bright cobalt blue
No two visits look exactly the same.
On my visit, the weather was sunny, and the pond reflected a beautiful shade of bright blue mixed with green. The surrounding forest enhanced the contrast, creating scenery that looked almost unreal.
This constantly changing color is one of the reasons photographers and nature lovers keep coming back throughout the year.
My Visit to Bishamonnuma Pond
I parked my motorcycle near the art gallery, which is one of the main access points to Bishamonnuma Pond. The parking area was convenient, and within just a few minutes, I found myself standing beside the famous pond. If you want more info you can check urabandai visiting site
It was early July, and the entire area was covered in lush greenery. The fresh leaves, clear sky, and warm sunshine made it feel like the perfect summer morning. A gentle breeze occasionally rippled across the pond, making the changing colors even more noticeable.
My plan was simple. Instead of hiking the full Goshikinuma Trail, I wanted to spend my time exploring Bishamonnuma itself.
Although it was a weekday, there were already plenty of visitors. Some people were adjusting their backpacks and getting ready to begin the Goshikinuma hiking trail, while others chose a slower pace. Families sat near the water enjoying ice cream, couples took photographs together, and many visitors simply relaxed while admiring the beautiful scenery.
Despite the number of people, the atmosphere never felt crowded or noisy. Everyone seemed to appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
Rowing Boat Experience
One experience I highly recommend is renting a rowing boat.
The rental service offers two options:
- 30 minutes – 1,000 yen
- 1 hour – 1,800 yen
If you are traveling with friends or family, sharing the cost makes the experience even better value.
Since I was traveling alone, I rented a boat for thirty minutes.
To be honest, I had never rowed a boat before.
At first, I wasn’t sure if I could control it properly. My first few strokes were a little awkward, and the boat didn’t move exactly where I wanted it to. Fortunately, after just a few minutes, I started getting used to the rhythm. Once I understood how to balance both oars, rowing became surprisingly easy and enjoyable.
Being out on the pond offered an entirely different perspective. Away from the shore, the surrounding mountains, forests, and reflections on the water looked even more impressive.
One of the best views was looking toward Mount Bandai, which stood proudly in the distance. The mountain completed the scenery and reminded me why Urabandai is considered one of Fukushima’s most beautiful natural areas.
Around me, couples quietly paddled across the water while taking photos. Families laughed together, and many people simply paused to admire the peaceful surroundings instead of rushing through their visit.
Those thirty minutes passed much faster than I expected.
The Beauty of the Surroundings
Bishamonnuma is more than just a colorful pond.
The surrounding environment makes the experience even more memorable.
Tall trees frame the shoreline, birds can often be heard singing, and gentle winds create soft ripples across the water. Depending on the time of day, reflections of the forest and mountains create different scenes that photographers will love.
During summer, everything feels fresh and green.
In autumn, the colorful leaves transform the pond into an entirely different landscape.
Winter covers the area with snow, while spring brings new life back to the forest.
Each season offers a unique experience, which explains why many visitors return more than once.
A Great Place for Photography
If you enjoy photography, Bishamonnuma offers countless opportunities.
Some of my favorite subjects included:
- The changing blue water
- Reflections of Mount Bandai
- Rowing boats floating across the pond
- The surrounding forest
- Walking paths along the shoreline
Morning light provides softer colors and fewer crowds, while sunny afternoons create stronger reflections and brighter water colors.
Even if you only use your smartphone, you’ll likely leave with beautiful photos.
Can You Visit Without Hiking?
Absolutely.
Many people assume that visiting Bishamonnuma means hiking the entire Goshikinuma Trail.
That isn’t true.
The pond itself is located just a short walk from the parking area, making it suitable for:
- Families with children
- Elderly visitors
- Casual tourists
- Photographers
- Travelers with limited time
If you have more time, you can continue walking along the Goshikinuma Trail to discover the other colorful ponds.
If not, Bishamonnuma alone is still well worth the visit.
Best Time to Visit Bishamonnuma Pond
Although Bishamonnuma is beautiful throughout the year, every season offers something different.
Spring
Fresh green leaves begin covering the surrounding forest.
Summer
Bright sunshine creates the famous vivid blue water, making it one of the best seasons for boating.
Autumn
Colorful maple leaves reflect beautifully on the pond.
Winter
Snow transforms the area into a quiet and peaceful winter landscape.
Note : In winter due to heavy snow its difficult….so if you want to see then please drive safe
If possible, visit on a clear weekday morning for the calmest atmosphere and the best lighting for photography.
Things to Do at Bishamonnuma Pond
During your visit, don’t miss these activities:
- Walk around the pond
- Rent a rowing boat
- Photograph the changing water colors
- Enjoy views of Mount Bandai
- Relax with an ice cream by the lakeside
- Start the Goshikinuma Ponds hiking trail
- Watch the reflections on the calm water
Even spending one or two hours here feels refreshing.
Travel Tips
- Visit on a sunny day to see the pond’s most vibrant colors.
- Arrive in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere before larger crowds arrive.
- Rent a rowing boat for the best views of the pond and Mount Bandai.
- If you’re traveling with friends or family, sharing a boat makes the rental more economical.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes if you plan to continue along the Goshikinuma Ponds Trail.
- Bring a camera or smartphone—the scenery is incredibly photogenic in every direction.
- Don’t rush your visit. Take time to sit by the pond and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Final Thoughts
Bishamonnuma Pond may be one stop along the Goshikinuma Ponds Trail, but it is much more than just the starting point of a hike. Its ever-changing blue water, peaceful atmosphere, and beautiful views of Mount Bandai make it a destination worth visiting on its own. For me, the highlight wasn’t just seeing the famous pond—it was slowly rowing across its calm water and taking in the scenery at my own pace. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or simply someone looking for a quiet escape into nature, Bishamonnuma Pond is a place that leaves a lasting impression and is sure to become one of the highlights of your trip to Fukushima.
