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Kami no Ko Ike is an incredibly clear and beautiful pond located within a forest in Kiyosato Town, Hokkaido. Although small in scale—approximately 220 meters in circumference and about 5 meters deep—the water quality is exceptionally pure, offering visibility so clear that the bottom is easily seen. The water color shifts from a vibrant turquoise at the surface to a deep emerald green toward the bottom, creating a truly mystical atmosphere. The sight of large fallen trees resting on the bottom, amidst a complex interplay of light and shadow, is a hallmark of its beauty.
The pond is called "Kami no Ko Ike" (God's Child Pond) due to the legend that it is fed by the underground waters of Lake Mashu. Lake Mashu is a rare type of lake with no visible rivers flowing in or out, and the surrounding area is rich in such subterranean water sources. The water temperature remains low at approximately 8°C throughout the year. This low temperature slows the decomposition of organic matter, allowing the fallen trees to remain preserved in their original form on the pond floor. In 2017, the area was incorporated into the Akan Mashu National Park.
The greatest attraction is undoubtedly the color and transparency of the water. When sunlight pierces the surface, the white volcanic ash on the bottom reflects the light, creating a brilliant blue glow. The fallen trees create a sense of stillness, as if time itself has stopped. Additionally, near the pond lies "Sakura Falls," where between June and August, you may witness the dynamic sight of cherry salmon jumping upstream to leap over the falls.
The pond displays different expressions depending on the season. The transparency is most striking during the daytime when the sunlight is strongest. To see the fine details of the underwater landscape, a sunny day during midday is ideal. Surrounded by lush greenery, the scenery is also beautiful during the seasons of fresh greenery and summer. However, please note that during winter, the area can be affected by heavy snow, so it is important to check the latest road conditions before visiting.
Simply observing the scenery in the silence of nature is a precious experience here. Depending on the season, guided tours such as the "Kami no Ko Ike Snowshoe Tour" may be available, offering a chance to experience the winter landscape from a different perspective. You can also observe the rich ecosystem, including the sight of Oshorokoma (a type of fish) swimming through the clear water.
Kami no Ko Ike is located within the Lake Mashu and Akan Mashu National Park area. The surrounding region features scenic viewpoints of Lake Mashu and beautiful driving routes leading toward the Shiretoko Peninsula. Exploring the streets of Kiyosato Town and the natural forest roads nearby will provide a deeper understanding of the natural beauty of Eastern Hokkaido.
As the pond is located within a forest, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Please be aware that the parking area consists of unpaved roads, so drive with caution. Even in summer, the temperature near the water can feel cool, so bringing layers is advised. To protect the environment, please strictly follow rules regarding trash disposal and stay within designated areas to avoid disturbing the pond.