Goshikinuma: Choose Which End of the Pond Trail to Start

Start at Goshikinuma Iriguchi for Bishamonnuma's larger expanse of water and the visitor-center area. Start at Urabandai Kogen-eki for Yanaginuma and the western ponds. Either direction can make a satisfying forest walk; choose which view you want first and how you will return.

Two entrances, different first views

The Urabandai Tourism Association's current guide identifies both entrances. On the Bishamonnuma side, use the visitor-center or tourist-plaza parking area, or arrive at Goshikinuma Iriguchi bus stop. The association places Bishamonnuma about five minutes on foot from the parking area.

At the other end, the bus stop is Urabandai Kogen-eki. Nearby parking is at Urabandai Bussankan, with Yanaginuma in front. This entrance also puts Aonuma and Rurinuma on your side of the pond group.

For one pond and time at the visitor center, choose the Bishamonnuma entrance and return there. For the full trail, decide on the exit before entering the woods.

Follow the colors through the forest

The association describes the pond trail as about 4 km (2.5 mi) one way, taking roughly 70–90 minutes. Allow more for looking at the water. Shades vary with light, weather, viewing angle and volcanic substances; a photograph is not a color chart for the day you arrive.

Bishamonnuma is the largest pond. The others make the walk a sequence of changing water and forest openings, rather than one continuous lakeside view. Keep to established paths: collecting animals or plants is prohibited in this specially protected national-park setting.

Although the association describes few ups and downs, it also notes slippery rocks and mud in rain. Shoes for a forest path are more useful than treating it as a paved promenade.

Finish at the useful entrance

A car left at one end needs a return leg after a one-way walk. The association describes returning by bus; check the service for both named stops on your date before choosing direction. If the timetable does not suit your pace, use an out-and-back. Walking the full trail both ways is roughly 8 km (5 mi), doubling the published one-way estimate before parking approaches.

In snow, the association advises an experienced guide for a snowshoe tour. Keep that seasonal outing separate from the ordinary forest walk. For help making the transport and walk one plan, see point-to-point logistics.