HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Hachimantai’s Goshiki Pond
A mysterious body of water that changes color with the seasons
Hachimantai DMO Inc.
Literally means ‘Five Coloured Pond’, Goshiki-numa is a deep and mysterious body of water in the Towada-Hachimantai National Park in northern Honshu. Volcanic minerals, such as iron and sulfur, feed into the pond, causing the color of the water to change throughout the year. The waters range from cloudy and brown to milky white, and are a stunning clear blue during the heat of the summer, which is accented by the red clay banks.
Gozaisho Pond is directly adjacent, and quite beautiful, though it lacks the unique coloring of its neighbor. Take a break in the small gazebo that provides a view of both ponds and take some time to appreciate their differences. You could even take a picnic to enjoy there.
It takes about 15 minutes to walk to the ponds from parking area, and doesn’t require any special footwear, though best not go in high heels. It is particularly picturesque in mid-August during the hot days of summer.
How to get there
30 minutes from JR Obuke Station by taxi.
Links
More Information
Tohoku Region | JNTO Official Website
Iwate Prefecture | JNTO Official Website