Located in Tateshina Highlands, Chino City, Nagano Prefecture, Mishaka Pond is a breathtaking spot where the surrounding larch trees beautifully reflect on the still surface of the water. This serene pond offers a different charm each season, as the colors of the larch forest transform with the changing seasons. In this article, we’ll introduce the seasonal scenic beauty of Mishaka Pond and provide detailed information on how to access it by car.
Why Do Trees Reflect So Clearly on the Surface of Mishaka Pond?
Why does Mishaka Pond reflect the trees along its shores so beautifully, as if the surface were a mirror? The secret lies in the pond’s acidic water, which creates ideal conditions for a moss called chatsubomigoke (scientific name: Leptodictyum riparium) to thrive on the pond floor. The vivid blue-green hue of this moss enhances the water’s reflective quality, making the surrounding trees appear stunningly clear on the surface.
Also, because the water is highly acidic, aquatic life cannot survive here, contributing to the pond’s serene and undisturbed beauty.
Interestingly, the trees tend to reflect more beautifully on cloudy days. While it might seem like sunny days would be better for reflections, the strong sunlight actually causes glare on the water’s surface, making it harder to see the mirrored image of the trees.
▲Chatsubomigoke Moss
Spring and Summer at Mishaka Pond
During the spring and summer seasons, Mishaka Pond transforms into a refreshing scene where the vibrant green larch trees reflect beautifully on the water’s surface. This serene landscape is famously captured in the iconic painting "Shining Green" by one of Japan’s most celebrated artists, Kaii Higashiyama, which depicts the pond in summer. In spring, the leaves are not yet fully grown, so the best viewing season is from early summer, particularly from June to August.
Best Viewing Season: June to August
Best Viewing Time: Early Morning
Autumn at Mishaka Pond
During autumn, the larch trees surrounding Mishaka Pond turn a brilliant golden hue, creating a breathtaking landscape of fall foliage. This seasonal spectacle makes the pond a must-visit destination for nature and photography enthusiasts.
Best viewing period: Late October to early November
Best time of day: Early morning
Winter at Mishaka Pond
During the winter season at Mishaka Pond, a magical snowy landscape unfolds with leafless trees and a serene white world. Sometimes, the surface of the pond freezes, but if you're lucky enough to witness the trees beautifully reflected on the water, it’s an incredibly rare and breathtaking sight. This is truly one of nature’s hidden winter wonders that you may only see by chance.
Best Viewing Season: December to February
Best Time to Visit: Early morning
Access to Mishaka Pond
The most convenient way to reach Mishaka Pond, nestled deep in the forest, is by car.
From the Chuo Expressway Suwa Interchange, it's about 18 km or a 30-minute drive. For smoother navigation, set your car’s GPS to either “Mishaka Pond” or the nearby “Meiji Onsen Ryokan.”
If you’re taking public transportation, take the Alpico Kotsu Okutateshina Shibu-no-Yu Line bus from JR Chino Station and get off at “Meiji Onsen Iriguchi.”
The journey takes around 45 minutes.
With skyticket, you can easily compare and book rental cars.
Make the most of your trip and enjoy a scenic drive through Nagano with a rental car!
◎ Summary
Which season's Mishaka Pond do you want to see the most—spring, summer, autumn, or winter?
Plan your visit according to the weather and season, and don’t miss out on witnessing this miraculous scenic spot with your own eyes.