Introduction 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…