Water of Amakawa Shimane Prefecture | Complete Guide to the Famous Water of Ama Town
The “Water of Amakawa” located in Ama Town, Oki District, Shimane Prefecture, is a precious spring water known as one of the “Hundred Famous Waters of Japan” selected by the Ministry of the Environment in 1985 (Showa 60). This clear water has continued to spring forth for over 1,300 years since the Nara period without ever running dry, supporting the lives of local residents and being cherished by many people. This article comprehensively explains the historical background of the Water of Amakawa, its water quality characteristics, its deep connection to Kiyomizu Temple, and detailed information for those wishing to visit.
What is the Water of Amakawa – Overview of the Famous Water in Oki, Shimane Prefecture
The Water of Amakawa is a spring water located in Nakano Island (Ama Town), which belongs to the Shimoji region of the Oki Islands in Shimane Prefecture. Located within the boundaries of Daisen-Oki National Park, it springs forth from the grounds of Kiyomizu Temple at the foot of Yui Mountain (Konkoji Mountain), approximately 200 meters above sea level.
Abundant and Stable Water Volume
The greatest characteristic of the Water of Amakawa is its abundant and stable water volume. Approximately 400 tons of groundwater spring forth continuously throughout the year, and there is no record of the spring ever running dry. The water temperature remains constant at approximately 15 degrees year-round, forming a pond of about 10 tsubo (approximately 33 square meters). Due to this stable water volume and quality, it has been widely utilized since ancient times as both domestic and agricultural water for Ama Town.
Value as a Hundred Famous Waters
In the “Showa Hundred Famous Waters” selected by the Ministry of the Environment in 1985, the following five locations were chosen from Shimane Prefecture:
- Water of Amakawa (Ama Town)
- Dangyo Falls Springwater (Okinoshima Town)
- Dangyo Falls Springwater (Okinoshima Town)
- Other famous waters within Shimane Prefecture
The Water of Amakawa is recognized as representative springwater of the Oki Islands, valued for its historical significance, superior water quality, and contribution to regional society.
History of the Water of Amakawa – Naming by Gyoki and the Founding of Kiyomizu Temple
Discovery and Naming in the Nara Period
The history of the Water of Amakawa traces back to the Nara period, specifically to the Tenpyo era (729–749). It is said that when the high priest Gyoki visited this area during his pilgrimage to the Oki Islands, he sensed spiritual energy in the spring water flowing from a cave in the shade of trees. Gyoki named this clear water “Amakawa” (Heaven’s River or Heaven’s Blessed Water), meaning “a river of blessings bestowed from heaven.”
Gyoki (668–749) was a prominent priest of the Nara period, known for his efforts in spreading Buddhism to the common people and his social contributions. Having traveled throughout the country and participated in the construction of bridges, roads, and irrigation facilities, the fact that Gyoki named this spring water discovered in the Oki region “Amakawa” speaks to the water’s quality and spiritual significance.
Founding of Kiyomizu Temple and the Holy Avalokiteshvara
After discovering the Water of Amakawa, Gyoki established Kiyomizu Temple (Kiyomizu-ji) at the location where the sacred water springs forth. The principal image enshrined at Kiyomizu Temple is the Holy Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, standing approximately 180 centimeters tall and carved from a single piece of hinoki wood. This statue of Avalokiteshvara is believed to date from the early Heian period and is among the oldest Buddhist statues in Oki, holding high value as a cultural property.
The Water of Amakawa, which springs forth from within the grounds of Kiyomizu Temple, has been cherished not merely as domestic water, but also as an object of faith. The location of the spring within the temple grounds symbolizes the sacred nature of this water.
Over 1,300 Years of Continuous Flow for the Region
From the Nara period to the present day, the Water of Amakawa has continued to spring forth without ever running dry. This continuity spanning over 1,300 years demonstrates the stability of the underground water vein and the richness of the natural environment. Regular cleaning activities are performed by nearby residents, reflecting a history of careful stewardship by the local community.
Water Quality and Characteristics of the Water of Amakawa
Superior Water Quality
The Water of Amakawa is known for its extremely high transparency and clean water quality. It received high evaluations in surveys conducted by the Ministry of the Environment and was one of the reasons for its selection as one of the Hundred Famous Waters.
Main Water Quality Characteristics:
- Transparency: Boasts exceptionally high transparency and crystal-clear water quality
- Water Temperature: Remains stable at approximately 15 degrees year-round
- Spring Volume: Approximately 400 tons per day
- Water Quality: High-quality water suitable for domestic and agricultural use
Geological Background
The geology of Ama Town, where the Water of Amakawa springs forth, is based on volcanic rock characteristic of the Oki Islands. Groundwater naturally filtered through rock layers surrounding Yui Mountain (Konkoji Mountain) emerges after many years underground, resulting in well-balanced, high-quality mineral water.
The elevation of 200 meters is also important, as the appropriate elevation difference maintains the mechanism for continuous natural pressure-driven flow. This geographic condition has made stable springwater possible for over 1,300 years.
Use as Domestic and Agricultural Water
The Water of Amakawa has long served as an important water source for Ama Town and has been widely utilized for:
- Domestic Water: An essential water source for the daily lives of local residents
- Agricultural Water: Irrigation water supporting agriculture in fields and paddies
- Drinking Water: A refreshing spot for travelers due to its roadside location
- Sacred Water: Serving as the holy water of Kiyomizu Temple
This multipurpose use is possible only because of its abundant volume and stable water quality.
Kiyomizu Temple and the Water of Amakawa – Harmony of Faith and Nature
Historical Significance of Kiyomizu Temple
Kiyomizu Temple (Kiyomizu-ji) is inseparable from the Water of Amakawa. Founded by Gyoki, this temple has served as a center of faith built around the spring for over 1,300 years.
Within the temple grounds, the principal image of the Holy Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva is enshrined. This statue, believed to date from the early Heian period, is a precious cultural property that transmits the Buddhist culture of the Oki region to the present day. The technique of carving from a single piece of hinoki wood demonstrates the sophisticated sculpting skills of that era.
The Spring Pond within the Temple Grounds
The spring pond of approximately 10 tsubo formed within the grounds of Kiyomizu Temple is the most beautiful place to view the Water of Amakawa. The sight of transparent water quietly springing forth leaves a deep impression on visitors. The surrounding area has been maintained to allow water collection and viewing.
Regional Faith and Water Deity Worship
The Water of Amakawa has been revered in the region as more than just a spring. As suggested by its name meaning “water blessed from heaven,” this water has been recognized as sacred and has been the object of water deity worship. The presence of Kiyomizu Temple has reinforced this faith.
Access and Basic Information for the Water of Amakawa
Location and Address
Address: Ama Town, Oki District, Shimane Prefecture, Chidii
The Water of Amakawa is located relatively close to the center of Ama Town and is easily accessible as it faces a main road.
Access Methods
Reaching Ama Town
Since Ama Town is located on an island in the Shimoji region of the Oki Islands, access from the mainland is by ferry.
Main Routes:
- From Sakaiminato (Tottori Prefecture):
- Ferry for approximately 3 hours
- Regular service operated by Oki Kisen shipping company
- From Nanrui Port (Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture):
- Ferry for approximately 3 hours
- Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes by high-speed boat
Access within Ama Town
After arriving at Ama Town’s Hishiura Port, the Water of Amakawa can be accessed as follows:
- Rental Car: Approximately 10 minutes
- Taxi: Approximately 10 minutes
- Rental Bicycle: Approximately 20 minutes
- Public Bus: Ama Town Community Bus
Business Hours and Admission
- Viewing Hours: Available 24 hours (nighttime visits require consideration as it is within a temple)
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Available (free)
Precautions When Visiting
- Keep It Clean: As an important local water source, care must be taken not to pollute it
- Temple Grounds: Be mindful that it is temple property and observe quietly
- Water Collection: As it is used as domestic water, collect with restraint
- Trash: Be sure to take all trash with you
- Photography: Remember to be considerate of other visitors and local residents
Tourist Spots Around the Water of Amakawa
Major Tourist Attractions in Ama Town
When visiting the Water of Amakawa, it is recommended to also explore other attractive spots in Ama Town.
Oki Shrine
A shrine dedicated to the retired Emperor Gotoba, an indispensable location when discussing the history of Ama Town. Built at the former residence of Retired Emperor Gotoba, who was exiled to Oki following the Jokyu Rebellion, this shrine has significant historical value.
Akeyaumi Beach
A beach featuring transparent waters and beautiful coastline. Swimming is also possible during summer season.
Konkoji Mountain (Yui Mountain)
The mountain from which the Water of Amakawa originates, featuring well-maintained hiking trails. The summit offers panoramic views of all of Ama Town and spectacular vistas of the Sea of Japan.
Ama Town Cuisine
Ama Town is a place where fresh seafood from the Oki Islands can be enjoyed.
- Rock Oysters: A specialty of Oki, particularly in season during summer
- Turban Shells: Thick and sweetly flavored
- White Squid: High transparency and exquisite when served as sashimi
- Oki Beef: High-quality beef raised on the island
Lodging Information
Ama Town has various lodging facilities including private inns, guesthouses, and hotels. Visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality unique to remote islands and cuisine featuring fresh seafood. When visiting the Water of Amakawa, it is recommended to stay in Ama Town and leisurely experience the island’s attractions.
Environmental Conservation Efforts
Conservation Activities by Local Residents
The Water of Amakawa is maintained in a beautiful state through regular cleaning activities by nearby residents. This voluntary conservation effort by the local community has made it possible to maintain this famous water for over 1,300 years.
Evaluation in the Hundred Famous Waters Selection Election
In the “Hundred Famous Waters Selection Election” conducted by the Ministry of the Environment in fiscal year 2015, particularly excellent famous waters were selected from among all one hundred famous waters nationwide. The Water of Amakawa received high evaluation, with recognition for its preservation status and relationship with the region.
Sustainable Water Resource Management
Ama Town has undertaken initiatives to sustainably manage island water resources including the Water of Amakawa. Efforts continue to balance the use of water for domestic and agricultural purposes with its value as a tourism resource, while working to pass this precious water resource on to future generations.
The Significance of Visiting the Water of Amakawa
Fusion of History and Nature
Visiting the Water of Amakawa is more than simply viewing beautiful spring water. History continuing from the Nara period, the footsteps of the high priest Gyoki, cultural properties of Kiyomizu Temple, and the blessings of nature that have flowed continuously for over 1,300 years without running dry – all of these are concentrated in one place.
Preciousiness of Water Resources on Remote Islands
The existence of abundant, high-quality water sources on remote islands such as the Oki Islands is extremely important. The Water of Amakawa is a precious example demonstrating that stable water resources can be secured even on remote islands, forming the foundation supporting regional sustainability.
Educational Value as a Hundred Famous Waters Site
As one of Japan’s Hundred Famous Waters, the Water of Amakawa also holds educational value in learning the importance of water environment conservation. Visitors can actually observe how clear water springs forth, how it is used by regional society, and how it is conserved.
Comparison with Other Famous Waters in Shimane Prefecture
Shimane Prefecture has other springs selected as among the Hundred Famous Waters besides the Water of Amakawa.
Dangyo Falls Springwater (Okinoshima Town)
Another famous water of the Oki Islands, the Dangyo Falls Springwater is located in Okinoshima Town (Shimogo). Unlike the Water of Amakawa, which emerges as a spring, this water flows as a waterfall, each with its own unique charm.
Famous Water Culture within Shimane Prefecture
Shimane Prefecture, exemplified by the Grand Shrine of Izumo, is a region with ancient deep connections to water. Spring water and clear streams exist throughout the prefecture, each linked to regional history and culture. The Water of Amakawa is known among these as a particularly notable example with ancient history and excellent preservation status.
Conclusion – The Story of Nature and History Told by the Water of Amakawa
The Water of Amakawa in Ama Town, Oki District, Shimane Prefecture, is a precious spring where history and nature are harmoniously united, fully deserving its selection as one of Japan’s Hundred Famous Waters. For over 1,300 years since the high priest Gyoki of the Nara period named it “a river blessed from heaven,” it has continued to spring forth approximately 400 tons per day of clear water without ever running dry.
Serving diverse roles as sacred water in the grounds of Kiyomizu Temple and as both domestic and agricultural water for local residents, the Water of Amakawa has been maintained in beautiful condition through dedicated conservation efforts by the community. Although located on the remote island of Oki, requiring ferry travel to access, the emotion felt upon visiting is all the more profound.
Visiting the Water of Amakawa is a precious experience allowing one to appreciate the richness of Japan’s water culture, the importance of the natural environment, and the strength of regional community bonds.
When visiting Shimane Prefecture, particularly if planning a trip to the Oki Islands, be sure to add the Water of Amakawa to your itinerary. The clear water nurtured by 1,300 years of history will surely purify your heart as well.
