The water appears blueish-white when it cools after reaching the surface, a process caused by the settling of mineral deposits.
The onsite aquarium was established in 1955 and remains one of the few facilities in Japan to leverage geothermal energy for aquatic life support.
The pond temperature typically remains around 95 degrees Celsius at the source.
Shiraike Jigoku is one of the designated sites that comprise the 'Beppu Jigoku Meguri' or Hell Tour.
Shiraike Jigoku, or the White Pond Hell, is one of the eight designated 'hells' of Beppu, distinguished by its naturally milky, blue-white thermal waters. The pond's unique color results from a high concentration of boric acid, calcium, magnesium, and sodium. The site features an integrated tropical aquarium that utilizes the geothermal heat of the spring to maintain water temperatures for exotic fish. Visitors can view giant arapaima and piranhas in tanks warmed by the volcanic runoff. The garden area surrounding the pond is landscaped in a traditional Japanese style, offering a stark visual contrast to the steaming, mineral-rich pools. It is a registered National Place of Scenic Beauty as part of the Beppu Hells collective.
The viewing platform overlooking the pond where the milky-blue water is framed by the surrounding manicured trees.
Visit during the morning to see the steam rising most vividly against the morning air.
Check the combined pass options if you plan to visit multiple 'hell' sites in the Kannawa district.
Take time to walk the perimeter garden for the best perspective of the contrast between the lush greenery and the pale water.
Do not attempt to touch the water or test the temperature, as it is extremely hot and poses a severe burn risk.
Open daily throughout the year.
