Goshikinuma Ponds | Colorful Volcanic Lakes

The Goshikinuma Ponds are a group of lakes formed by volcanic activity in the Urabandai area of Fukushima Prefecture, known for displaying different water colors in each pond. One defining feature is the ability to walk the nature trail and visit multiple ponds along a continuous route.

Representative ponds such as Bishamon-numa and Aonuma are scattered throughout the area, and multiple trail entrances allow for one-way walks using public transportation. This flexibility is a distinctive characteristic of the Goshikinuma Ponds.

Visitor Information for Goshikinuma Ponds

The Goshikinuma Ponds are a natural scenic area consisting of lakes created by landform changes after the eruption of Mount Bandai. The water contains volcanic minerals, which cause the lake surfaces to appear blue, green, or other shades depending on conditions.

The Goshikinuma Ponds in Fukushima are a group of colorful lakes created by volcanic activity.
They are not the same as the Witch’s Eye, a single crater lake near Mount Issaikyo that requires hiking to reach.
Located in Urabandai, the Goshikinuma Ponds offer an easy walk along a scenic trail with vibrant blue, green, and red lakes.
Perfect for all visitors, it’s an accessible and stunning nature spot worth exploring.

Highlights and Nearby Spots in Goshikinuma

Highlights of the Goshikinuma Ponds

• At Bishamon-numa, visitors can observe changes in water color from the lakeshore
• At Aonuma, the highly transparent blue water surface can be clearly seen
• Along the nature trail, visitors can walk through a continuous landscape of forests and ponds

Nearby Spots Within Two Hours

• Visit the Urabandai Visitor Center to learn about local nature
• View the waterscape along the shore of Lake Hibara
• Observe the scenery of Lake Inawashiro, known as one of Japan’s major lakes

Walking and Observation Along Nature Trails

While walking along the nature trail, visitors can tour the ponds and observe differences in water color and terrain. The walk typically includes photography and viewing connected forest and lake landscapes characteristic of the Urabandai area.

Access to the Goshikinuma Ponds