Complete Guide to Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water (Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture) | All About This Miraculous Water of Life
Located in Gora, Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture, “Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water (帰山観音延命大乗水)” is a sacred spring water also known as “Water of Life.” The reputation is that those who drink it daily will recover from illness if sick, and become even healthier if already healthy, attracting so many visitors that lines forming for several hours on holidays are common.
This article comprehensively explains everything you should know before visiting, including the origin of Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water, the characteristics of its composition, actual effects, rules for collecting it, and access methods.
What is Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water? Its Mysterious Origins
The Miraculous Water Born from the Kannon’s Divine Message
The origin of Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water begins with a highly mysterious legend. According to the story, the Kannon Bodhisattva appeared in the dreams of the site’s caretaker with a divine message: “Dig on this land.” Following this divine instruction, when the caretaker dug on the property, clear water began to spring forth, marking the beginning of Enmeii Daijo Water.
From this mysterious origin, Enmeii Daijo Water came to be revered not merely as spring water but as “sacred water” bestowed through the compassion of Kannon. The reason people continuously visit from throughout Fukui and beyond, seeking health and the healing of illnesses, lies in this miraculous origin.
The Meaning Embedded in the Name “Enmeii Daijo Water”
“Enmeii” literally means to extend one’s life, while “Daijo” is a Buddhist term meaning to save many people. In other words, this water bears the wish to be “water that extends the lives of many people and brings them health.”
In reality, numerous letters of gratitude from people whose illnesses were healed reach the caretaker, and word of its miraculous effects has spread nationwide through word of mouth. It has been featured on television and in media, and many people travel from distant places specifically to visit.
Composition and Scientific Characteristics of Enmeii Daijo Water
The Significance of Being Ultra-Soft Water
The greatest characteristic of Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water is its “ultra-soft water” quality. Water hardness is determined by the amount of calcium and magnesium it contains, and Enmeii Daijo Water has an extremely low hardness, making it ultra-soft water.
The smoothness you feel the moment it enters your mouth comes from this ultra-soft water characteristic. Water with low hardness has a soft mouthfeel and is said to be well-absorbed by the body. While Japanese people are accustomed to soft water, Enmeii Daijo Water is particularly soft even among Japanese waters, with outstanding drinkability.
Composition Different from Ordinary Water
The composition of Enmeii Daijo Water is said to be completely different from ordinary water. Of particular note is its effect in reducing active oxygen within the body. Active oxygen is a substance that causes aging and various diseases, and if it can be reduced, it would greatly contribute to health maintenance and disease prevention.
Additionally, it contains abundant minerals and possesses the nature of natural ion water. This mineral balance is thought to be responsible for its body-regulating effects.
Detoxification Effects and Health Impact
Continuous consumption of Enmeii Daijo Water is believed to provide detoxification effects for the body. Because it is ultra-soft water, it has high penetration into the body and is thought to promote the elimination of waste products.
Among those who visit, many come after hearing the reputation that it is effective for all kinds of ailments, including cancer. While scientific verification is limited, the fact that many people have experienced health improvements over many years speaks to the special nature of this water.
Effects Reported from Enmeii Daijo Water
Testimonies of Disease Healing
Numerous testimonies report that continued consumption of Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water has cured their illnesses. The caretaker continuously receives letters of gratitude with varied content.
- Chronic poor health conditions improved
- Symptoms of long-standing illnesses were reduced
- Health examination values improved
- The body felt lighter and vitality increased
These are personal experiences and do not guarantee medical efficacy, but it is certain that many people have experienced some form of health benefits.
Healthy People Becoming Even Healthier
The reputation of Enmeii Daijo Water is that “sick people become healthy, and healthy people become even healthier.” Those already in good health who continue drinking it are said to achieve further health improvement and disease prevention effects.
From a preventive medicine perspective, it is noted for daily health maintenance, immune system enhancement, and fatigue recovery. The fact that many people travel from distant places regularly to collect water is likely because they are experiencing such continuous health benefits.
Drinking Without Boiling is Important
To obtain maximum effects from Enmeii Daijo Water, it is recommended to drink it as-is without boiling. Heating may alter the water’s special properties and composition.
Some people may resist drinking raw water, but this water is clean groundwater that many people have safely consumed for years. However, attention to storage methods is necessary: keep it in a clean container in a cool, dark place and try to drink it as soon as possible.
Rules and Precautions for Collecting Enmeii Daijo Water
Purchase of Dedicated Poly Containers is Essential
To collect Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water, you must purchase a dedicated poly container. This is a strict rule, and collecting with other containers is not permitted.
The dedicated poly container is 20 liters and costs approximately 1,200 yen per bottle. You can purchase one at a neighboring shop. Once purchased, you can collect water free of charge by bringing that container on subsequent visits. This is an extremely helpful system, making it economical for those who use it continuously.
Limits on Collection Amount and Time
The amount you can collect at one time is limited to five poly containers (totaling 100 liters). This limit exists to maintain fairness as many people visit.
Additionally, the water collection time has set hours, and Monday is a closed day. It is recommended to confirm the business days and hours before visiting. On holidays and special occasions, the lines are particularly crowded, sometimes requiring several hours of waiting.
Tips for Efficient Collection
On-site staff members (local volunteers, etc.) manage the order and collection process. Therefore, even first-time visitors can feel assured. Following the staff’s instructions ensures that even with lines, water collection moves quickly and smoothly.
To avoid crowds, aim for relatively quiet times such as weekday mornings. However, if traveling from a distance, it is recommended to be prepared for some waiting time as a worthwhile part of the experience.
Items to Bring
For first-time visitors:
- Payment for dedicated poly container purchase (approximately 1,200 yen × number needed)
- Trunk space in your car (20-liter containers are heavy)
For subsequent visits:
- Previously purchased dedicated poly container (thoroughly washed)
- Towel or cleaning cloth (for spills)
Access Methods to Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water
Basic Information
Location: Fukui Prefecture, Tsuruga City, Gora
Closed: Mondays
Parking: Available (free)
Access by Public Transportation
From Tsuruga Station on the JR Hokuriku Main Line, take the Tsuruga City Community Bus heading to Motohida for approximately 16 minutes and get off at the “Gora” bus stop. However, considering you will be carrying large quantities of water back, visiting by public transportation is not very practical.
Access by Car
Car travel is the most convenient option. You can make a day trip from throughout Fukui Prefecture, as well as from the Kansai and Chukyo regions.
- Approximately 15 minutes from “Tsuruga IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Obama Nishi IC” on the Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway
Searching “Kaeriyama Kannon” or “Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water” on car navigation systems or smartphone map apps will display the exact location. Parking is free, but it becomes crowded on holidays, so visiting early in the day is recommended.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
The Gora area of Tsuruga City is a nature-rich location, and exploring the surroundings after collecting water is also recommended. Tsuruga City has the following tourist attractions:
- Kehi Pine Grove: One of Japan’s three great pine groves with beautiful coastlines
- Kehi Shrine: A prestigious shrine known as the guardian deity of the Hokuriku region
- Tsuruga Red Brick Warehouse: A tourism facility utilizing a warehouse from the Meiji era
- Kanazaki Shrine: A historic shrine also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot
Planning a Tsuruga tourism itinerary combined with visiting Enmeii Daijo Water would be worthwhile.
Storage Methods and Drinking Methods for Enmeii Daijo Water
Appropriate Storage Methods
After collecting Enmeii Daijo Water, proper storage is important:
- Store in a cool, dark place: Keep away from direct sunlight in a cool location
- Use a clean container: Thoroughly wash the dedicated poly container before use
- Store sealed: Close the lid securely to prevent air contact
- Drink as soon as possible: As raw water, ideally consume within 1-2 weeks of collection
If storing in a refrigerator, be careful about odor absorption. Additionally, if you drink directly from a container that someone else has used, bacteria are more likely to proliferate, so pouring into a cup before drinking is recommended.
Effective Drinking Methods
To obtain maximum effects from Enmeii Daijo Water:
- Drink consistently every day: Continuous consumption is important, not just occasional use
- Drink raw without boiling: Heating may cause loss of the water’s special properties
- Drink first thing in the morning: Better body absorption on an empty stomach
- Observe appropriate amounts: Approximately 1-2 liters per day is the standard
Appropriate amounts vary depending on individual health and constitution, so adjust your intake while listening to your body.
Use in Cooking
Beyond drinking, you can benefit from Enmeii Daijo Water through cooking:
- Cooking rice: Ultra-soft water results in fluffy, well-cooked rice
- Brewing tea or coffee: Mellow flavor
- Miso soup or soups: Enhances the taste of ingredients
However, some properties may be lost through heat cooking, so prioritize drinking it raw and use any surplus for cooking.
Visitor Testimonies and Reviews
People Visiting from Inside and Outside the Prefecture
Not only from within Fukui Prefecture but also from the Hokuriku region including Ishikawa and Toyama prefectures, and even from the Kansai, Chukyo, and Kanto regions. Some people even travel regularly from distant places monthly to collect water.
Testimonies such as “I was skeptical at first, but my health improved with continued drinking” and “My long-standing poor health was resolved” are frequently heard. While individual differences exist, most people seem to experience some positive change.
Why There Are So Many Repeat Customers
Most people who visit once become repeat customers of Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water. The reasons include:
- Actually experiencing effects: Noticing health improvements
- Free collection with container: Free water collection from the second visit onward for economic reasons
- Water taste: Appreciation for the smooth mouthfeel of ultra-soft water
- Faith: Spiritual value as sacred water bestowed by Kannon’s divine message
Beyond material effects, spiritual peace and faith are also factors that increase the value of this water.
Manners and Etiquette When Visiting Enmeii Daijo Water
Mindset When Visiting a Sacred Place
Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water is sacred water that sprang forth from the Kannon’s divine message. It is important to understand that it is not merely a spring water spot but also an object of faith, and to visit with respect.
- Do not speak loudly or create noise
- Always take trash with you
- Cherish the surrounding natural environment
- Follow the instructions of managers and staff
Consideration During Crowded Times
Weekends and holidays are particularly crowded, with long waits possible. Maintain order in line and show consideration for other visitors.
- Respect the queue order
- Keep your collection amount within regulations (up to five containers)
- Promptly yield your place to the next person
- Show a spirit of mutual consideration in the parking lot
Never Forget Gratitude
It is important to maintain a sense of gratitude for being allowed to collect water free of charge, gratitude toward those managing the site, and gratitude toward Kannon. If there is a donation box, leaving a donation with heartfelt feelings is also appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I bring when visiting for the first time?
You can purchase the dedicated poly container on-site, so no special preparation is needed. However, prepare the purchase amount (approximately 1,200 yen per container) and ensure your car has space to accommodate the 20-liter container. A towel for spills is also handy.
Are the effects really true?
While this does not guarantee medical efficacy, many people have experienced health improvements over many years, and numerous letters of gratitude have been received. Scientific characteristics such as ultra-soft water composition and the possibility of reducing active oxygen in the body have been reported. While individual differences exist, many people seem to experience positive changes through continuous consumption.
How often should I go to collect water?
Five dedicated containers (100 liters) are sufficient for about 50 days if drinking 2 liters daily. Most repeat visitors seem to go about once or twice monthly. Considering storage duration, ideally collect an amount drinkable within 1-2 weeks.
When should I go to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings are relatively quiet. Weekends and holidays, particularly Saturdays and extended holidays, often see lines requiring several hours of waiting. For those traveling from a distance, it is recommended to be prepared for some waiting time.
Can I use other containers like plastic bottles?
Only dedicated poly containers are permitted, and this rule is strictly enforced. This is a measure to maintain water quality and fairness. You must purchase the dedicated container on-site.
Is it safe for children and elderly people to drink?
Ultra-soft water that is easy to drink, and many families from children to the elderly consume it. However, as it is raw water, if you have concerns about health or constitution, it is recommended to start with small amounts and observe how your body responds.
Conclusion: Achieving Healthy Living with Enmeii Daijo Water
Kaeriyama Kannon Enmeii Daijo Water is sacred spring water in Gora, Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture, discovered through the Kannon’s divine message. With its ultra-soft water quality providing a smooth mouthfeel, its potential to reduce active oxygen in the body, and the health benefits experienced by many people, it can be called water of special value.
The economic system of purchasing a dedicated poly container once and collecting water free of charge thereafter is also attractive. Visit with awareness that Monday is a closed day and holidays are crowded.
Drinking it raw without boiling, consuming it continuously each day, and visiting with a sense of gratitude are the keys to receiving maximum benefits from Enmeii Daijo Water.
“Sick people become healthy, and healthy people become even healthier”—believing in this reputation, many people visit Kaeriyama Kannon in Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture. Why not experience this mysterious “Water of Life” yourself?
