What are the Goshiki-numa Lakes? Fukushima's Breathtaking Scenery of Colorful Ponds
Located in the Urabandai area of Fukushima Prefecture, the Goshiki-numa Lake Group is a beautiful cluster of ponds embraced by the rich nature of Urabandai.
Maintained as the "Goshiki-numa Nature Trail," the ponds are called "Goshiki-numa" (Five-Color Ponds) because each has its own distinct color.
Vivid blues, emerald greens, cobalt blues, and even slightly reddish shades of aqua—colors shift with the seasons and weather, creating a mystical atmosphere.
Here we introduce the formation and history of the Goshiki-numa Lake Group, the characteristics of each pond, seasonal highlights, and access information in a way that’s easy for international travelers to understand.
1. Formation and History of the Goshiki-numa Lake Group
How the Goshiki-numa Lakes were formed and the secret behind their colors
The Goshiki-numa Lake Group is believed to have formed after the 1888 eruption of Mount Bandai.
Volcanic activity from that eruption caused volcanic minerals to settle on the lake bottoms, changing the water composition and creating the unique colors found in each pond.
Because the colors also change depending on the angle of light and weather, one of the charms of Goshiki-numa is that you can discover a new landscape each time you visit.
The origin of the name "Goshiki-numa"
The name Goshiki-numa Lake Group comes from the variety of colors—blue, green, red, and more—found in the scattered ponds.
The area features the "Goshiki-numa Nature Trail," a hiking course about 3.6 km long that can be walked in roughly 1 to 1.5 hours.
The trail is easy for beginners, making it popular with families and groups of friends. It’s perfect for a leisurely time in nature.
2. Highlights of the Goshiki-numa Lake Group
Features of each pond and their mystical colors
The Goshiki-numa Lake Group includes especially well-known ponds such as Bishamon-numa, Ao-numa, Benten-numa, Ruri-numa, and Aka-numa.
Each pond displays different colors, and their beauty attracts many visitors.
- Bishamon-numa: The largest pond in the Goshiki-numa group, known for its vivid emerald green.
- Boat rentals are available, allowing you to enjoy the colors from the water.
- Ao-numa: A mysterious pond with a deep blue hue; the blue is particularly striking on clear days.
- The intensity of the blue varies with the angle of light, so the view changes every time you visit.
- Benten-numa: Known for its translucent greens and blues; the trees around the pond reflect on the surface, creating a dreamy scene.
- Ruri-numa: Another pond with beautiful emerald-green water that becomes even more vibrant in good weather, making it a popular photo spot.
- Aka-numa: Tinted reddish due to iron oxide, offering a unique contrast to the other ponds.
Hiking the Goshiki-numa Nature Trail
The Goshiki-numa Nature Trail starts at the visitor center and is a well-loved hiking route that takes you past several ponds.
The 3.6 km route can be walked in about 1 to 1.5 hours, with observation spots for each pond along the way.
Spring’s fresh greenery and autumn’s foliage are especially beautiful, surrounding visitors in natural splendor.
Nature observation and seasonal scenery
The Goshiki-numa Lake Group is rich in wild waterfowl and plant life; depending on when you visit you may see swans or rare plants.
In winter, swans come to Bishamon-numa, and the snowy scenery creates a serene, beautiful landscape.
Encounters with seasonal plants and animals deepen the enjoyment of walking the nature trail.
3. Best seasons to visit the Goshiki-numa Lake Group
Spring: Fresh greenery and mountain wildflowers
In spring the area around the Goshiki-numa Lakes is filled with fresh green foliage and a refreshing atmosphere.
From May to June, delicate mountain wildflowers begin to bloom, making for a stroll that celebrates nature’s vitality.
Summer: Refreshing shade under the trees
In summer, the many shady spots and cool breezes make hiking comfortable even in hot weather.
The lakes’ colors shine under the summer sun, with blues and greens appearing especially vivid.
Autumn: Contrasts between autumn leaves and lake colors
In autumn the Goshiki-numa Lakes are wrapped in beautiful fall foliage.
The contrast between red and yellow leaves and the blue and green of the ponds is spectacular, making this a popular season for visitors.
Mid-October to early November is the best time for autumn colors, perfect for landscape photography.
Winter: Lakes amid snow and silence
In winter the Goshiki-numa Lakes are covered in snow, giving them a magical atmosphere.
Bishamon-numa welcomes swans, and you can enjoy the lakes’ beauty in tranquil snowy surroundings.
Be sure to dress warmly when visiting and enjoy the unique winter scenery.
4. Access and essential information for visiting the Goshiki-numa Lake Group
How to get there
- Train and bus: From Tokyo, take the Shinkansen to Kōriyama Station, then the Ban'etsu West Line to Inawashiro Station.
- From Inawashiro Station, a local bus can take you to the Goshiki-numa entrance.
- By car: From the Ban-etsu Expressway, take the Inawashiro-Bandai Kogen interchange; it’s about a 20-minute drive to Goshiki-numa.
- Parking is available, so access by car is convenient.
Opening information
The Goshiki-numa Lake Group is open year-round as a nature trail.
However, during winter there can be heavy snowfall, so it’s a good idea to check weather and road conditions in advance.
Admission fees
Access to the Goshiki-numa Lake Group is free of charge.
Parking is generally free, but please confirm details ahead of time.
5. Useful information for travelers
Suggested sightseeing course at Goshiki-numa
The typical activity is hiking the Goshiki-numa Nature Trail, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete.
The trail is easy for beginners and lets you efficiently enjoy the highlights of each pond.
Since the walk is relaxed and focused on enjoying nature, plan with some extra time for a leisurely visit.
Local specialties and souvenirs
Around Goshiki-numa you can find Fukushima specialties and souvenirs themed on the ponds.
Traditional items like Aizu lacquerware and Akabeko (red cow) crafts, unique to Fukushima, are available—great as mementos of your trip.
Summary
The Goshiki-numa Lake Group in Fukushima Prefecture is a scenic spot where you can enjoy the beauty of nature through the seasons.
The differing colors of each pond and the area’s rich natural environment offer visitors a soothing, memorable experience.
When you visit Fukushima, take time to experience the mystical natural beauty of the Goshiki-numa Lakes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it take to walk around the Goshiki-numa Lakes?
A: The Goshiki-numa Nature Trail typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to walk.
If you take your time to observe each pond slowly, it can take around 2 hours.
Q2: Can I visit the Goshiki-numa Lakes at any time of year?
A: Yes, the Goshiki-numa Lakes are accessible year-round.
However, in winter there is often heavy snowfall, so be sure to prepare appropriate cold-weather clothing.
Q3: What is the best season to visit the Goshiki-numa Lakes?
A: Spring’s fresh greenery and autumn’s fall colors are especially recommended.
Autumn foliage is at its best from mid-October to early November, when the contrast of colors is most striking.
Enjoy the changing seasons and the abundant natural beauty at the Goshiki-numa Lake Group in Fukushima Prefecture.
