Visiting the Oshino Hakkai — Mysterious Springs Born from Mount Fuji’s Groundwater

On September 22nd, I visited Oshino Hakkai, a village renowned for its pristine waters where underground streams from Mount Fuji emerge. After exiting at Yamanakako Interchange, following the signs by car takes about 15 minutes to arrive. Located in Oshino Village, Yamanashi Prefecture, this area is designated as a National Natural Monument. Its landscape, dotted with crystal-clear ponds and pristine streams, truly deserves to be called a sacred place of water.

My first visit to Oshino Hakkai was over 40 years ago. Back then, there weren’t as many souvenir shops as there are now, and it was quite compact. Now it has become a fully developed tourist destination.

The scene of a watermill and thatched roofs

The first thing that catches your eye is the thatched-roof watermill. The waterwheel turns in the clear, flowing stream, evoking the timeless, rustic scenery of old Japan. Though tourists were present, the atmosphere felt like stepping back into a nostalgic era. I believe this watermill has been here for ages. The winter snowy landscape creates an indescribably idyllic scene. It stands as a landmark of Oshino Hakkai.

Abundant waterfronts and bustling tourism

Shops and rest areas lined the lakeside, bustling with people seeking local specialties. The green of the trees reflected on the water’s surface, and time flowed leisurely. It is precisely because of the pure spring water that this satoyama lifestyle has thrived here.

Mysterious Spring ― Pool of Spring Water

The charm of Oshino Hakkai lies above all in its spring-fed ponds. Peering into the stone-walled springs, one is astonished by the crystal-clear transparency reaching all the way to the bottom. The mystical atmosphere drifting within the stillness felt like the entrance to another world.

Flowing Clear Stream and Walking Path

Along the stream, a well-maintained walking path invites strollers to enjoy the scenery. The soothing greenery by the water and the gentle sound of flowing water create a space where simply walking feels therapeutic. Viewed from the bridge, the river’s transparency and the swaying water plants were particularly striking.

A pond where carp swim

In several ponds, carp swam leisurely through the crystal-clear water. Despite the depth, the water was so transparent that the fish were clearly visible, making one feel the greatness of nature’s power.
Walking through Oshino Hakkai, one is captivated not only by the ponds of various sizes but also by the sight of the small streams flowing out from them.
The green of the trees reflected on the water’s surface, the river flowing quietly. Lush vegetation covered both banks, creating a serene landscape that made one forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Peering into the water, it was so clear you could see the riverbed below—a scene truly worthy of being called a “living, clear stream.”

A scene nestled beside the stream

As you continue walking, a small stream edged by grass continues. The sight of aquatic plants swaying gently spoke of the richness and vitality of the clear water. Listening closely, the sound of water murmurs softly, enveloping you in a natural background melody.

In closing

The Oshino Hakkai springs, where underground water from Mount Fuji emerges after decades of seepage. Encountering its pristine waters and tranquil scenery allowed me to truly feel the mystery and richness of nature. Visiting during the coming seasons, amidst the autumn foliage or snowy landscapes, would surely be an exceptional experience.