Kamikawa County

Many empty snowy fields, except some scattered solitary trees, can be seen along the way to Biei. It was about 6F when we got there.

Biei (美瑛) is a small town surrounded by gently rolling hills and vast fields in Hokkaido. Its population is estimated just a little over 10,000 people. Like its picturesque landscape in other seasons, Biei presents an unique beauty in winter time.

Shirahige Falls is situated 600 meters above sea level in Biei, Hokkaido. It is unusual for that its water flows from an underground river and cascading water turns cobalt blue in the basin. The waterfall is particularly stunning in the winter when frost-encrusted trees and shimmering icicles showcase the blue ravine below. The photo was a up-close view at the bottom of the fall.

The morning temperature was -20C when we took photos at the falls.