Juniko Lakes Aoike
Discover the mesmerizing blue of Aoike pond and serene lakes within the Shirakami Sanchi UNESCO zone. A natural wonder best seen on sunny days.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for Aoike's blue
Juniko Lakes Aoike
Best Time
Best light for Aoike's blue
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the mesmerizing blue of Aoike pond and serene lakes within the Shirakami Sanchi UNESCO zone. A natural wonder best seen on sunny days.
"The blue pond was really blue... truly magical on a sunny day!"
☀️ Chase the Sun for Blue
Aoike's vibrant blue is best seen under direct sunlight. Check the weather forecast before you go!
🚶♀️ Parking & Walking
Parking costs ¥500. Aoike is a 700m walk from the lot. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Aoike (Blue Pond)
Juniko Lakes
The star attraction, a stunningly blue pond whose color intensifies with sunlight. Truly magical!
Collection of Twelve Lakes
Juniko Lakes
Explore a series of serene lakes connected by walking trails, offering peaceful natural beauty.
Shirakami Sanchi UNESCO Zone
Surrounding Juniko Lakes
For avid hikers, this protected area offers deeper immersion into pristine, ancient forests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Aoike's Blue
Accessibility and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Chase the Sun for Blue
Aoike's vibrant blue is best seen under direct sunlight. Check the weather forecast before you go!
🚶♀️ Parking & Walking
Parking costs ¥500. Aoike is a 700m walk from the lot. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
🚌 Direct Bus Access
A direct bus runs from Juniko Station, with a 2-hour gap for exploring. Perfect for train travelers.
🦟 Insect Repellent
Be prepared for insects, especially on the walking trails. Bring repellent to enjoy the nature. :bug:
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Chase the Sun for Blue
Aoike's vibrant blue is best seen under direct sunlight. Check the weather forecast before you go!
🚶♀️ Parking & Walking
Parking costs ¥500. Aoike is a 700m walk from the lot. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
🚌 Direct Bus Access
A direct bus runs from Juniko Station, with a 2-hour gap for exploring. Perfect for train travelers.
🦟 Insect Repellent
Be prepared for insects, especially on the walking trails. Bring repellent to enjoy the nature. :bug:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Juniko Lakes offers a visually striking experience, with Aoike pond's vibrant blue being a major highlight, especially on sunny days. Visitors appreciate the serene natural beauty and accessible walking trails. However, some find the experience overrated if visiting on a cloudy day or expecting more than the easily accessible lakes.
"Early Nov 2025. Nice walk with autumn trees and the lake view with autumn trees. Parking is at the tourist information center. 500yen per entry, pay when u leave. The two main lakes are within short walk from tourist center. The pathway is not concrete so expect muddy when raining."
SiewHong Png
"Honestly, this place feels quite overrated. Some of the so-called lakes are so small and shallow, they’re more like ponds. Out of 33 lakes, only about 12 are easily accessible by car. The rest require long walks to reach, which may not be ideal for everyone.
Even the well-known Aoike (青池) is about 700 meters from the nearest carpark (¥500 per entry), and its beauty really depends on the sunlight. If it’s cloudy, it’s honestly not worth the trip. Plan accordingly if you’re thinking of visiting."
Niko Z
"The day I visited this place is cloudy but the scene of the lakes is still nice and is still pop out from my brain. The color of the lakes is either blue and green and there water is so clear. Since it's in the mountain not much wind there and the water is still so that it reflect things like a mirror. The trail to the lakes is comfortable and at the same time you could enjoy a forest bath. There was not much people too but may be due to my late arrival."
chuen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
There is a direct bus service from Juniko Station to the lakes and back. The buses typically run with a 2-hour gap, allowing ample time for exploration.
Yes, you can drive to Juniko Lakes. There are parking facilities available, though some of the more distant lakes may require additional walking.
Many visitors arrive via the resort train, with direct bus connections from Juniko Station making it a convenient option for a day trip.
Yes, there are hiking trails connecting the lakes, offering a more immersive experience in the natural surroundings.
Absolutely! With direct bus services from Juniko Station and accessible parking, it's a popular destination for day trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a parking fee of ¥500. Access to the lakes themselves is generally free, but be aware of any specific area charges.
Tickets are not typically required in advance for general access to Juniko Lakes. Parking fees are usually paid on-site.
Juniko Lakes is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific facility hours may vary.
Yes, Aoike, the famous blue pond, is one of the lakes within the Juniko Lakes area.
While not always advertised, local information or guided options might be available, especially for those interested in the Shirakami Sanchi area. Inquire locally for details.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The best time to visit Aoike pond is on a clear, sunny day, ideally in the morning or early afternoon, when the sunlight best illuminates the water's vibrant blue color.
Exploring the main accessible lakes and Aoike can take 1-2 hours. For those interested in longer hikes into Shirakami Sanchi, plan for a full day.
Restroom facilities are typically available near the parking areas and main access points. It's advisable to use them when you see them.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to explore the trails. Dress in layers as weather can change.
Yes, like many natural areas, insects can be present, particularly on the walking trails. Bringing insect repellent is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Aoike pond is the prime spot, especially when the sun hits it. The walking trails around the other lakes also offer beautiful, serene nature shots.
Mid-morning to early afternoon on a sunny day provides the most dramatic blue hues for Aoike. Avoid cloudy conditions if possible.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty. However, a camera with good low-light performance can be beneficial for shaded areas. :iphone:
Drone usage is generally restricted in natural parks and protected areas like Shirakami Sanchi to preserve the environment and wildlife. Check local regulations before flying.
Expect stunning shots of vibrant blue water, lush green forests, reflections in the lakes, and peaceful natural landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities can be limited. Ensure children wear comfortable shoes for walking. While the main paths are easy, keep a close eye on them near the water's edge. Consider bringing insect repellent to ward off bugs, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Plan for a full day if you intend to explore the deeper trails. Sturdy hiking boots, ample water, and a map are essential. Be prepared for varied terrain and potential wildlife encounters. The serenity and pristine beauty of Shirakami Sanchi are unparalleled for dedicated hikers.
📸 Photographers
Beyond Aoike, the network of lakes and surrounding forests provides ample subjects for landscape and nature photography. Look for reflections in the water, the play of light and shadow through the trees, and the serene atmosphere. Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset can also yield beautiful, softer light, though Aoike's blue is most intense midday.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Aoike's Blue
To truly appreciate Aoike, visiting on a clear, sunny day is paramount. The best times are typically mid-morning to early afternoon when the sun is high enough to penetrate the water and illuminate its true color. Many visitors recommend checking the weather forecast specifically for this area before making the trip to maximize your chances of seeing the pond at its most spectacular.
Remember that Aoike is about a 700-meter walk from the nearest parking lot, so comfortable footwear is a must. The path is generally well-maintained, but it's an outdoor natural setting.
Exploring the Juniko Lakes Network
For those who enjoy a more active exploration, the trails around the lakes offer opportunities to discover hidden spots and enjoy the natural beauty at a slower pace. The area is part of the larger Shirakami Sanchi UNESCO protected zone, a vast, ancient beech forest. While visiting all 33 lakes requires significant hiking, exploring the main cluster provides a fulfilling experience for most visitors.
Be aware that as a natural environment, insects can be present, especially during warmer months. Bringing insect repellent is a practical tip to ensure a more comfortable exploration of the trails and lakeside paths.
Getting to and Around Juniko Lakes
For those who prefer to drive, parking is available near the main access points, with a fee of ¥500. From the parking area, it's a walk to the lakes, with Aoike being approximately 700 meters away. The accessibility by both public transport and car makes Juniko Lakes a feasible destination for various travel plans.
Once at the lakes, the primary mode of exploration is walking. Well-maintained paths connect the accessible lakes, making it easy to navigate and enjoy the scenery. For the more adventurous, longer hiking trails extend into the surrounding Shirakami Sanchi area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit