Dreamscape in Blue: My Solo Trip to the Blue Pond, Hokkaido

#mytraveldiary In the heart of Hokkaido, there’s a place that feels like it was painted by dreams—Aoiike, the Blue Pond. Known for its surreal, milky-blue waters and the skeletal remains of birch and larch trees rising from its surface, this man-made pond near Biei is a solo traveler’s sanctuary of silence and beauty. My Solo Itinerary: · Morning – Ethereal Light & Stillness: Arrived at sunrise, when the pond glows with soft, almost unreal shades of blue and turquoise. With few visitors around, I had the wooden boardwalks and viewing platforms mostly to myself. Watched the water shift colors as the light changed—pure magic. · Afternoon – Biei’s Rolling Hills: Rented a bike or joined a local tour to explore the Patchwork Road and Panorama Road in Biei—fields of flowers, dramatic tree clusters like the Parents and Child Trees, and wide-open landscapes straight from a Studio Ghibli film. · Evening – Onsen & Local Flavors: Headed to nearby Shirogane Onsen for a relaxing soak in a natural hot spring. Tried Hokkaido’s famous dairy—soft-serve ice cream or rich cheese—at a local farm café. Why the Blue Pond is Perfect for Solo Travelers: · Safe & Accessible: Well-maintained paths, clear signage, and easy parking. · Free to Visit: No entrance fee, though donations help maintain the area. · Photographer’s Paradise: The otherworldly colors and reflections are unforgettable—tripods are welcome! · Seasonal Magic: Visit in May–June for lush greenery, autumn for golden trees, or winter when the pond is partially frozen and dusted with snow. Tips for Your Visit: · 🚗 The pond is best reached by car or bus from Asahikawa or Furano. · 📅 Visit early or late to avoid crowds—sunrise and sunset are especially serene. · 🌲 Combine your trip with a visit to Shikisai-no-Oka flower fields or Furano for lavender in summer. The Blue Pond isn’t just a sight—it’s an experience of quiet wonder. Perfect for solos seeking peace and a touch of the extraordinary. --- Hashtags: #soloinhokkaido #bluepond #aoiike #japantravel #solojapan #hokkaidodreams #travelinpeace