- 2022.05.31
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Why so blue?
Niyodo River is one of the clearest rivers in Japan. The miraculous “Niyodo Blue” color can take your breath away even through photos! But WHY is it so blue?
The reason is not yet *crystal clear* (hehe geddit?), but there are several widely-accepted theories
Low water temperatures
The freshwater at Nikobuchi (one of the best places to see Niyodo Blue) has a relatively low temperature even during the summer, which prevents the growth of organisms like algae that can cause cloudy waters.
Tough rocks!
Over the course of 1.7 million years, it is said that mountains deep under the sea broke into dense rocks called chert. Thanks to its hardness, chert does not easily turn into sand, which keeps the waters clear across the Niyodo area.
A natural filtration system
Kochi has high average rainfall compared to other parts of Japan, which helps wash out impurities frequently. Also, the fast-running, high-pressure waterfall at Nikobuchi prevents sediments from accumulating in the plunge pool.
The clearer, the bluer
We’re getting a little scientific here, but generally, water with few impurities better reflects blue light (short wavelength).
Come visit the Niyodo River and witness the miraculous art of nature
Learn more about Nikobuchi: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10016
The reason is not yet *crystal clear* (hehe geddit?), but there are several widely-accepted theories
Low water temperatures
The freshwater at Nikobuchi (one of the best places to see Niyodo Blue) has a relatively low temperature even during the summer, which prevents the growth of organisms like algae that can cause cloudy waters.
Tough rocks!
Over the course of 1.7 million years, it is said that mountains deep under the sea broke into dense rocks called chert. Thanks to its hardness, chert does not easily turn into sand, which keeps the waters clear across the Niyodo area.
A natural filtration system
Kochi has high average rainfall compared to other parts of Japan, which helps wash out impurities frequently. Also, the fast-running, high-pressure waterfall at Nikobuchi prevents sediments from accumulating in the plunge pool.
The clearer, the bluer
We’re getting a little scientific here, but generally, water with few impurities better reflects blue light (short wavelength).
Come visit the Niyodo River and witness the miraculous art of nature
Learn more about Nikobuchi: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/see-and-do/10016
