Mishaka Pond in Nagano Prefecture is famous for its deep green hue and seasonal expressions, but it also plays a crucial role in the region's agriculture. Published on By Dawn had not yet broken. My shadow stretched from my feet, illuminated by the moonlight.
The only sounds were the gentle flow of water and the occasional chirping of birds. As sunrise approached, the landscape began to glow. Using long-exposure photography, I tried to gather as much light as possible to capture the scene.
The result was an ethereal image of Mishaka Pond, with the larch forest along its shores reflected in the still water. Mishaka Pond, located near the base of the Yatsugatake Mountains at an altitude of around 1,500 meters (4,920 ft), is renowned for its crystal-clear waters. Built as an agricultural reservoir in the early Showa period (1926–1989), it warms the cold mountain water to support rice cultivation in the Sasahara district, about 4 kilometers (2.
5 miles) downstream. The pond's water source, Shibukawa River, is highly acidic. This prevents fish and aquatic plants from flourishing, contributing to the pond's clear water.
However, a species of moss called thrives in this acidic environment. It covers the pond bed, giving the water its distinctive deep green hue. Throughout the year, Mishaka Pond captivates visitors with its seasonal beauty.
In autumn, the pond is adorned with foliage, and in winter, it is blanketed with snow. Mishaka Pond inspired the famous painting (1982) by Japan.