Shirakumo Pond
Whether you are on your way to a hike or stopping by for a picnic, Shirakumo Pond is an excellent place to observe Unzen’s natural beauty.
The name “Shirakumo,” which can be translated as “white cloud,” is likely a reference to the way the pond reflects the sky on a clear day. In summer, you may see birds like the narcissus flycatcher (kibitaki), identifiable by its bright yellow breast, and the Japanese pygmy woodpecker (kogera), whose call is more of a buzzing sound than a song. The top of Mt. Kinugasa is only short hike away from the pond, and its summit provides a great vantage point for viewing the beauty of the Unzen volcano cluster.
The area around Shirakumo Pond is a fully outfitted campground, with tent sites, toilets, cooking areas, and boat rentals. The campground is open and staffed from July to August.