Lake Juniko (Aoike / Blue Pond)

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Lake Juniko (Aoike / Blue Pond)

The lake system located in the world heritage site, Shirakami Sanchi, famous for the mystic “Aoike” Pond.

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In the west Part of Shirakami Sanchi (Mountain), a UNESCO World Heritage site, a group of 33 lakes are nestled in the beech forest. They are said to have been made by an avalanche due to a huge earthquake. The name came from the view from the top of the mountain which shows only 12 lakes / ponds.

Among the lakes with different views, Aoike (Blue Pond) is described “It is as if blue ink was poured into it.” Even though the water is so clear that you can see a tall beech tree lying at the bottom, the surface sparkles in enchanting cobalt blue.

In Juniko’s forest, there are four trails which were certified as the roads fit for forest therapy after the healing effects were proven. The Japan Canyon with white rocks and contrasting greeneries, clear water springs from Wakitsubo-no-ike Pond, Juniko-an, the tea house which serves tea made of the water from Wakitsubo-no-ike Pond and other spots of interest are along the trails, while you enjoy the “forest bathing.”

Individuals can enter the Juniko Area from April through November to appreciate the fresh greens and fall colors. If a guide accompanies you, you can trek through the snowscape from December to March.

Highlights

  • A group of 33 lakes made by a huge earthquake in the Edo Period.
  • The sparkling cobalt blue Aoike is the most famous.
  • Enjoy the lake scenery from the therapy road.
  • Have some tea at Juniko-an made with the spring water.
  • Note that individuals can enter the Juniko Area only from April through November.

Photos

  • The view from the Okuzure Observation Platform over the beech forest dotted with lakes and ponds

    The view from the Okuzure Observation Platform over the beech forest dotted with lakes and ponds

  • Beautiful bright blue Aoike Pond

    Beautiful bright blue Aoike Pond

  • Stern rock of the Japan Canyon

    Stern rock of the Japan Canyon

  • The serene therapy road

    The serene therapy road

  • Fall foliage is worth a look

    Fall foliage is worth a look

Reviews

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  • 劉淑娟

    美到令人難忘的五彩青池❤️水

Details

Name in Japanese
十二湖
Postal Code
038-2206
Address
Matsukami-yama National Forest, Matsukami Aza, Oaza, Fukaura-machi, Nishitsugaru-gun, Aomori
Telephone
0173-74-4412 (Fukaura Town Tourism Section)
Closed
December to March (Walking allowed with a guide)
Hours
Walk anytime
Admission
Free (Fee-based parking available: 500 yen and up)
Directions
From JR Gono Line Juniko Station, ride Konan Bus and get off at Oku Juniko Parking
Official Website
Official Website (English)