What is the Goshiki-numa Ponds? A Spectacular Array of Vibrant Lakes in Fukushima
Located in the Urabandai area of Fukushima Prefecture, the "Goshiki-numa Ponds" is a stunning collection of lakes nestled within the lush nature of Urabandai.
Developed as the "Goshiki-numa Nature Trail," these ponds are known as "Goshiki-numa" due to their unique hues.
The vivid blue, emerald green, cobalt blue, and even reddish-blue waters change color with the seasons and weather, creating a mystical ambiance.
This article provides an easy-to-understand guide for international travelers on the origin of the Goshiki-numa Ponds, the features of each pond, seasonal highlights, and access information.
1. The Origin and History of the Goshiki-numa Ponds
The Creation of Goshiki-numa Ponds and the Secret of Their Natural Colors
The Goshiki-numa Ponds were formed by the eruption of Mount Bandai in 1888.
This volcanic activity led to the deposit of volcanic minerals at the lake bottoms, altering the water's composition and giving each pond its distinctive color.
Moreover, the colors change with the angle of light and weather, offering new scenery with each visit—a charm of the Goshiki-numa Ponds.
The Origin of the Name "Goshiki-numa"
The name Goshiki-numa Ponds derives from the diverse hues of the ponds, such as blue, green, and red, scattered throughout the area.
The area features the "Goshiki-numa Nature Trail," a 3.6km hiking course that can be completed in about 1 to 1.5 hours.
It's an easy course even for beginners, attracting many tourists who enjoy leisurely spending time amidst nature with family and friends.
2. Highlights of the Goshiki-numa Ponds
Features of Each Pond and Their Mystical Colors
The Goshiki-numa Ponds include famous ones such as "Bishamon-numa," "Ao-numa," "Benten-numa," "Ruri-numa," and "Aka-numa."
Each pond possesses different hues, captivating many visitors with their beauty.
- Bishamon-numa: The largest pond among the Goshiki-numa Ponds, characterized by its vibrant emerald green.
- Boats are available for rent, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the colors from the water.
- Ao-numa: A mystical pond with a deep blue color, especially striking on sunny days.
- The intensity of the blue changes with the angle of light, offering a different view each visit.
- Benten-numa: Known for its clear green and blue, with trees reflecting on the water's surface, creating a magical landscape.
- Ruri-numa: A beautiful emerald green pond that becomes even more vivid on sunny days, making it a popular photo spot.
- Aka-numa: Tinged with red due to iron oxide, offering a different color experience from the other ponds.
Hiking the Goshiki-numa Nature Trail
The "Goshiki-numa Nature Trail" starts from the visitor center and is a beloved hiking course that tours several ponds.
You can walk the 3.6km trail in about 1 to 1.5 hours, with observation spots for each pond along the way.
The fresh greenery of spring and the autumn foliage are particularly beautiful, enveloping visitors in the natural beauty.
Nature Observation and Seasonal Scenery
The Goshiki-numa Ponds are home to abundant wildlife and plants, and during certain times, you may see swans and rare plants.
In winter, swans migrate to Bishamon-numa, creating a beautiful scene with the snow-covered landscape.
Encounters with seasonal plants and animals further enhance the enjoyment of walking the nature trail.
3. Recommended Seasons to Visit the Goshiki-numa Ponds
Spring: A Landscape Adorned with Fresh Greenery and Wildflowers
In spring, the area around the Goshiki-numa Ponds is adorned with fresh greenery, creating a refreshing atmosphere.
Especially from May to June, delicate wildflowers begin to bloom, allowing you to enjoy a stroll while feeling the vitality of nature.
Summer: Refreshing Shade and Cool Breezes
In summer, the abundant shade and cool breezes make hiking comfortable even in the hot season.
The beautiful colors of the ponds shine in the summer sun, with blues and greens appearing especially vivid.
Autumn: The Contrast of Autumn Leaves and Pond Colors
In autumn, the Goshiki-numa Ponds are enveloped in beautiful autumn foliage.
The contrast of red and yellow trees with the blue and green ponds is stunning, making it a popular season for many tourists.
The best time for autumn foliage is from mid-October to early November, an ideal season for landscape photography.
Winter: Enjoy the Ponds Amidst Snow and Silence
In winter, the Goshiki-numa Ponds are wrapped in snow, creating a fantastical atmosphere.
Swans migrate to Bishamon-numa, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the ponds amidst the quiet snow-covered landscape.
Be sure to take proper precautions against the cold and enjoy the unique winter scenery.
4. Access and Basic Information for Visiting the Goshiki-numa Ponds
Access Methods
- Train and Bus: From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen to Koriyama Station, then the Ban'etsu West Line to Inawashiro Station.
- From Inawashiro Station, you can access the Goshiki-numa entrance by local bus.
- Car: About 20 minutes from the Inawashiro Bandai Kogen Interchange on the Ban'etsu Expressway to Goshiki-numa.
- Parking is available, making access by car convenient as well.
Visitor Information
The Goshiki-numa Ponds are open year-round for exploration via the nature trail.
However, during winter, heavy snowfall is common, so it's advisable to check weather and road conditions in advance.
Admission Fees
Entry to the Goshiki-numa Ponds is free.
However, there may be fees for using the visitor center or parking, so it's good to check in advance.
5. Useful Information for Travelers
Tourist Model Course of the Goshiki-numa Ponds
The typical hiking course is around the 1 to 1.5-hour Goshiki-numa Nature Trail.
It's an easy course for beginners to walk, allowing you to efficiently enjoy the highlights of each pond.
It's best to plan with ample time to enjoy a leisurely walk while soaking in nature.
Local Specialty Products and Souvenirs
Around Goshiki-numa, you can find products from Fukushima Prefecture and items related to Goshiki-numa.
You can purchase unique Fukushima souvenirs like "Aizu Lacquerware" and "Akabeko," so be sure to pick up something to remember your trip by.
Conclusion
The Goshiki-numa Ponds in Fukushima Prefecture are a breathtaking spot where you can experience the beauty of nature throughout the seasons.
The varying colors of each pond and the rich natural environment offer a healing experience and special memories for visitors.
When visiting Fukushima, be sure to enjoy a moment of mystical natural beauty at the Goshiki-numa Ponds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the estimated time to explore the Goshiki-numa Ponds?
A: The Goshiki-numa Nature Trail typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to walk.
If you take your time observing each pond, it may take around 2 hours.
Q2: Can the Goshiki-numa Ponds be visited year-round?
A: Yes, the Goshiki-numa Ponds can be visited year-round.
However, heavy snowfall in winter necessitates proper cold-weather gear.
Q3: When is the best season to visit the Goshiki-numa Ponds?
A: The fresh greenery of spring and the autumn foliage season are particularly recommended.
The autumn foliage is best viewed from mid-October to early November, offering beautiful color contrasts.
Enjoy the changing Japanese seasons and the rich natural beauty at the Goshiki-numa Ponds in Fukushima Prefecture.
