Complete Guide to the Spring Water by Hiyoshi Shrine (Akita Prefecture) | Charm and Visiting Methods of the Arao Spring Water Group
Located in the Arao district of Akita City, Hiyoshi Shrine is known as a shrine with a long history, and the spring water beside its grounds is cherished not only by local residents but also by visitors from afar. This article provides a detailed explanation of the spring water by Hiyoshi Shrine, including its characteristics, historical background, access methods, and nearby spring water spots.
What is the Spring Water by Hiyoshi Shrine?
The spring water by Hiyoshi Shrine is one of the representative spots in the “Arao Spring Water Group” that is scattered throughout the Arao district of Akita City. At the ablution basin of the shrine, clear groundwater pumped from underground flows continuously day and night, and not only worshippers but also community members regularly visit to draw water.
Characteristics of the Arao Spring Water Group
The Arao district is known as a “spring water village” with abundant groundwater. Multiple spring water points are scattered relatively close to Hiyoshi Shrine, allowing visitors to enjoy touring the springs. These spring waters are supplied from the underground streams and aquifers of the Omono River water system, maintaining stable water volume and temperature throughout the year.
The characteristics of the Arao Spring Water Group include the following:
- Water Quality: Clear groundwater containing minerals
- Accessibility: Within walking distance from JR Arao Station
- Multiple Spring Water Points: Located at distances that can be visited in a day trip
- Connection to Community: Used as daily water for local residents since ancient times
History and Significance of Hiyoshi Shrine
Understanding the history of Hiyoshi Shrine is important for understanding the spring water.
Founding and Relocation History of Hiyoshi Shrine
According to old traditions, Hiyoshi Shrine is said to have been enshrined at the foot of Shohei Mountain in the first year of Daido (806). Later, due to a great earthquake in the 7th year of Tenchou (830), the course of the river changed dramatically, and the shrine was relocated to a place about five town blocks south of Arao, in an area called Tanakaya Shiki. It is then said to have been relocated to its current location in the first year of Eiji (1141).
Through this long history, Hiyoshi Shrine took root in the community as the guardian deity of the Arao district, and the spring water in its grounds has been cherished as sacred water.
Enshrined Deities and Divine Virtues
Hiyoshi Shrine enshrines Oyamazui no Okami as the main deity, along with 17 other deities including Emperor Sutoku. It is said to have various divine virtues including safe childbirth, academic success, traffic safety, and removal of misfortune and bad luck, and it draws the faith of the community.
Location and Characteristics of the Spring Water
Spring Water at the Ablution Basin
At the ablution basin in the grounds of Hiyoshi Shrine, water pumped from underground flows continuously. This water is used not only by worshippers to cleanse their hands and mouth, but is also taken home by local people for drinking water and cooking purposes.
Characteristics of the spring water at the ablution basin:
- Water Temperature: Stable at approximately 12-15 degrees Celsius year-round
- Water Volume: A constant amount flows continuously
- Water Quality: Soft water with a mild taste
- Hours of Use: Generally available 24 hours (subject to the shrine’s opening hours)
Spring Water Points Around the Shrine
Besides the spring water by Hiyoshi Shrine, there are several spring water points in the Arao district. These are located relatively close to each other and can be visited on foot or by bicycle.
Main spring water points in the Arao Spring Water Group:
- Hiyoshi Shrine Ablution Basin: The most easily accessible spring water spot
- Spring Water North of the Shrine: A community water point in a residential area
- Spring Water around Arao Station: Located close to the station, easy to visit
These spring water points are carefully maintained by local residents and kept clean.
Access Methods and Visiting Guide
Access by Public Transportation
The nearest station to Hiyoshi Shrine is Arao Station on the JR Uetsu Main Line.
Route from JR Arao Station:
- Exit Arao Station and pass in front of the Akita City West District Citizen Service Center
- Cross Prefectural Route 56 (former National Route 7) at the “Hiyoshi Shrine Front” intersection where Arao Police Box is located
- Turn onto the road north of Hiyoshi Shrine and proceed
- Arrive in approximately 10-15 minutes on foot
Access by Automobile
When visiting by car from central Akita:
- From Akita Station: Head south on National Route 7, approximately 20 minutes
- From Akita Expressway Akita South IC: Approximately 25 minutes
- Parking: Free parking for visitors is available in the shrine grounds
As it is located along Prefectural Route 56 (former National Route 7), access by car is also convenient. However, during New Year’s visits and festival periods, congestion is possible, so consider using public transportation.
Notes When Visiting
Things to note when visiting the spring water by Hiyoshi Shrine:
- Bring a Container: If taking water home, bring a clean container
- Follow Proper Etiquette: Remember you are in shrine grounds and conduct yourself quietly
- Avoid Occupying the Space for Long Periods: Be considerate of other users
- Take Trash with You: Keep the surrounding area clean
- Confirm Before Drinking: Drink raw water at your own risk
How to Tour the Arao Spring Water Group
The spring water group in the Arao district can have multiple points visited in a day trip. Here we introduce an efficient way to tour them.
Recommended Spring Water Touring Course
Half-Day Course (Approximately 2-3 hours)
- JR Arao Station (Starting point)
- Spring Water around Arao Station (5 minutes walk from station)
- Hiyoshi Shrine (10 minutes walk from station)
- Spring Water Point North of the Shrine (5 minutes walk from shrine)
- Arao District Stroll (Enjoy the historic townscape)
This course allows you to efficiently tour the main spring water points in the Arao district. Each point is relatively close, so you won’t have difficulty finding them.
How to Enjoy Spring Water Touring
Points for enjoying spring water touring more:
- Compare Tastes: Enjoy the subtle differences in water taste at each spring water point
- Learn About Local History: Deepen your understanding of the relationship between spring water and the community
- Photography: Record landscapes that differ with the seasons
- Interact with Local People: Obtain information from locals who come to draw water
Water Quality and Usage Methods of Spring Water
Water Quality Characteristics of the Arao Spring Water Group
The spring water in the Arao district is natural water supplied from underground aquifers. General characteristics include:
- Hardness: Soft water (like most groundwater in Japan)
- pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral
- Minerals: Contains appropriate amounts of calcium, magnesium, and other minerals
- Water Temperature: Approximately 12-15 degrees Celsius year-round
However, it is recommended to check with local authorities or the shrine regarding results of regular water quality tests.
Methods of Using Spring Water
Local people use the spring water by Hiyoshi Shrine for various purposes:
For Drinking:
- Drink as is (boiling recommended)
- Brew tea or coffee
- Use for water or hot water-based drinks
For Cooking:
- Cook rice
- Make miso soup or soup base
- Wash vegetables
Other Uses:
- Water plants
- Use in calligraphy and tea ceremony
Method of Storing Water
Method of storing spring water after taking it home:
- Store in a Clean Container: Use a container that has been sterilized by boiling beforehand
- Refrigerate: Place in the refrigerator as soon as possible
- Use Quickly: Use within 2-3 days is preferable
- Boil Before Drinking: If drinking raw water, it is at your own risk
Annual Events at Hiyoshi Shrine and Spring Water
Various events are held throughout the year at Hiyoshi Shrine, and the spring water is also used in these religious services.
Major Annual Events
- New Year’s Visits (January 1-3): Many visitors come
- Donto Celebration (Mid-January): Burn New Year’s decorations
- Spring Festival (May): Mikoshi processions and other events are held
- Yamao Festival (June): Traditional festival in Akita City
- Kashima Festival (July): Prayer for avoidance of epidemics
- Autumn Festival (September): Celebrate the harvest
- Shichigosan (November): Celebrate children’s growth
During these events, people can be seen cleansing their hands with the spring water from the shrine grounds before worshipping.
History of Arao District and the Relationship with Spring Water
The Arao district has long been known as a land blessed with spring water. This abundant groundwater has greatly contributed to the development of the region.
Spring Water and Community Life
From the Edo period through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods, the people of Arao district used spring water as their daily water source. Before water systems were established, these spring waters were an important water source for community residents.
Today, many residents still visit to draw spring water as “delicious water,” and it has become rooted in community culture.
Spring Water Conservation Activities
In the Arao district, local residents and local authorities work together to carry out spring water conservation activities. Efforts continue to pass on this precious resource to future generations through regular cleaning and water quality management.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting the spring water by Hiyoshi Shrine, we introduce nearby spots worth visiting together.
Things to See in Arao District
Arao Townscape:
The Arao district with its historic buildings is suitable for strolling. You can feel the remnants of a former port town with old merchant houses and warehouses scattered throughout.
Akita City West District Citizen Service Center:
A convenient facility for gathering local information. Historical materials of the Arao district can also be viewed.
Japan Sea Coast:
Just a few minutes by car from Arao district, there is a coastline along the Japan Sea where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets.
Other Spring Water Spots in Akita City
There are other spring water spots in Akita City:
- Spring Water around Taihei Mountain: Multiple spring water points at the foot of the mountain
- Spring Water Along Omono River: Scattered near the riverbed
- Spring Water Around Asahi River: Spring water spots near the city center
Hiyoshi Shrine and Spring Water Through the Four Seasons
Hiyoshi Shrine and the spring water show different appearances with each season.
Spring (March-May)
Cherry blossoms bloom in the shrine grounds, and the number of visitors increases. The water volume of the spring water may increase due to snowmelt. This is a beautiful time to see the contrast between fresh green foliage and clear water.
Summer (June-August)
Cold spring water is especially pleasant in this season. Summer festivals such as the Yamao Festival and Kashima Festival are held, and many people visit. On hot days, you can see people cooling their hands with the spring water.
Autumn (September-November)
The trees in the shrine grounds change color, and autumn leaves are beautiful. The sound of the spring water resonates pleasantly in the clear air. During the Shichigosan season, children in kimono visit.
Winter (December-February)
The contrast between the snow-covered shrine grounds and the spring water is striking. Even in winter, the spring water continues to flow without freezing, and you can feel its warmth (relatively speaking). During the New Year’s visit season, it is crowded with many worshippers.
Q&A for Enjoying Spring Water
Q: Is the spring water at Hiyoshi Shrine free to draw?
A: Yes, you can draw it for free. However, remember that you are in shrine grounds and follow proper etiquette when using it.
Q: Is it safe to drink the spring water raw?
A: Local people have been drinking it for many years, but there is no official permission for drinking water. If you drink raw water, it is at your own risk. If you are concerned, it is recommended to boil it before drinking.
Q: How much water can I draw?
A: Within reasonable limits, there is no problem, but consideration for other users is also necessary. If drawing a large amount, please be considerate such as avoiding crowded times.
Q: Is there a good time to draw spring water?
A: Early morning and weekday mornings tend to be less crowded. However, use within the shrine’s opening hours is the basic rule.
Q: Is it okay to take it home in a plastic bottle?
A: As long as the container is clean, there is no problem. If using a used plastic bottle, wash it thoroughly before use.
Etiquette and Rules for Using Spring Water
To continue using the spring water by Hiyoshi Shrine for years to come, follow the following etiquette and rules.
Basic Etiquette
- Respect for the Shrine: Remember you are on shrine grounds and worship before drawing water
- Keep the Area Clean: Do not litter the area, take trash with you
- Share the Space: If other users are present, wait your turn
- Avoid Occupying the Space for Long Periods: After drawing the necessary amount, promptly vacate the space
- Keep Quiet: Use quietly
Prohibited Activities
- Submerging containers directly in the water source
- Doing laundry or washing dishes in the surrounding area
- Large-scale collection for commercial purposes
- Leaving trash
- Parking outside designated parking areas
Contribution to the Community
When using spring water, it is important to have a sense of gratitude. If possible:
- Make a donation at the shrine or purchase omamori charms
- Participate in community cleanup activities
- Shop at stores in the Arao district
Consider how you can contribute to the community.
Conclusion: The Charm of Spring Water by Hiyoshi Shrine
The spring water by Hiyoshi Shrine is a natural blessing that the Arao district of Akita City takes pride in. This spring water, long cherished by local residents, continues to be used and loved by many people today.
Clear water, convenient access, integration with a historic shrine, and connection with the community—all of these shape the charm of the spring water by Hiyoshi Shrine.
When visiting Akita, be sure to visit Hiyoshi Shrine in the Arao district and experience this precious spring water firsthand. One sip will allow you to feel the blessings of Akita’s earth and the thoughts of the people who have protected them.
The spring water that flows unchanged today is a precious treasure of the Arao district, connecting the past, present, and future.
