Complete Guide to Daibō Shimizu (Yamagata Prefecture) | The Charm and Water Quality/Access Information of Zao’s Famous Water Spot
What is Daibō Shimizu? A Hidden Famous Water Spot in Zao, Yamagata City
Daibō Shimizu (大坊清水) is a natural spring water spot located in the Zao Ueno district of Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture. This place, where clear water springs from the rich nature nurtured by the Zao Mountains, is known as a popular famous water source visited by locals and people from distant areas alike to draw water.
It has been selected as one of the “Famous Waters of the Countryside: Yamagata’s 100 Selections,” and is carefully preserved as one of Yamagata Prefecture’s precious water resources. While several spring waters are scattered throughout the Zao area, Daibō Shimizu is highly regarded for its abundant water volume and stable water quality.
Historical Background of Daibō Shimizu
The name “Daibō” is thought to derive from a temple or mountain ascetic practice base that once existed in this area. There is a history of it being used as daily water for local residents since ancient times, and that tradition continues in modern times.
The area around the base of Mount Zao is covered with abundant forests, and deciduous forests including beech trees function as natural filters. Rainwater and snowmelt that have penetrated deep underground over many years are filtered by rock layers and appear at the surface as clear spring water containing minerals.
Characteristics of Daibō Shimizu | Stable Water Volume and Quality Throughout the Year
Abundant Water Volume and the Manner of Outflow
The greatest characteristic of Daibō Shimizu is its abundant water volume. You can observe water bubbling out from several points in the spring pool, a sight that provides healing to those who visit.
While water volume fluctuates somewhat with the seasons, it remains stable throughout the year and never dries up even during dry periods. This stability is one reason many local residents use it on a daily basis.
The Secret Behind Excellent Water Quality
The water quality of Daibō Shimizu is protected by the natural environment of the Zao mountain base. It has the following characteristics:
- Appropriate mineral content: Contains appropriate mineral content as it passes through rock layers, offering a mellow taste
- Low and stable temperature: Water temperature remains low and stable throughout the year, allowing you to enjoy cold water even in summer
- High transparency: Clear water with little impurity and high transparency
- Natural filtration system: Natural filtration action by forest soil such as beech forests
Yamagata Prefecture conducts regular water quality surveys on spring waters selected for “Famous Waters of the Countryside: Yamagata’s 100 Selections,” and Daibō Shimizu has been confirmed to be safe. However, boiling is recommended before drinking.
Why It’s Loved by Local Residents
Daibō Shimizu is highly popular locally, introduced in rice shops throughout Yamagata City as “the most frequently used spring water.” The reasons include:
- Good accessibility: Located relatively close to the city center and easy to reach by car
- Water quality stability: Stable quality regardless of season
- Abundant water volume: Enough water that doesn’t dry up even with many people using it
- Good surrounding environment: Can enjoy drawing water in a nature-rich environment
With all these conditions in place, it’s characterized by having many repeat users who visit regularly.
Access Methods to Daibō Shimizu and Detailed Information
Location and Basic Information
- Location: Zao Ueno, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture
- Access classification: Accessible (viewable, approachable, touchable)
- Parking: Available (limited spaces, please share courteously)
- Hours of operation: 24 hours (however, nighttime use is not recommended)
- Usage fee: Free
Access by Car
From Yamagata City Center
- Approximately 30 minutes from Yamagata Station
- Proceed on National Route 286 toward Zao, then to Ueno district
- Convenient to search “Zao Ueno Daibō Shimizu” on car navigation
From Yamagata Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from Yamagata Zao IC
- Located in Ueno district on the way to Zao Hot Spring
Access by Public Transportation
Public transportation access is limited, so visiting by car is recommended. If using a taxi from Yamagata Station, the travel time is approximately 30 minutes.
Precautions When Visiting
When visiting Daibō Shimizu, please note the following points:
- Protection of natural environment: Always take garbage with you and be considerate not to pollute the surrounding environment
- Spirit of sharing: Since many people use this place, avoid occupying it for long periods
- Safety confirmation: Some areas have slippery ground, so visit wearing appropriate shoes
- Caution with drinking: If drinking tap water, it is at your own risk, so boiling is recommended
- Winter visits: When there is snow, pay careful attention to road conditions and equip your vehicle with studless tires
“Famous Waters of the Countryside: Yamagata’s 100 Selections” | Selection Criteria and Significance
Overview of Yamagata’s 100 Selections
“Famous Waters of the Countryside: Yamagata’s 100 Selections” is an initiative in which Yamagata Prefecture selects excellent spring waters throughout the prefecture and promotes their conservation and use. This project aims to pass on the region’s precious water resources to the next generation.
The selection criteria include the following:
- Water quality: Water suitable for drinking or daily use
- Water volume: Stable water volume throughout the year
- Accessibility: Easy access for local residents and visitors
- Conservation activities: Conservation activities conducted by the community
- History and culture: Connection to the region’s history and culture
New Selection Activities in the Reiwa Era
Yamagata Prefecture continues to select new famous waters since the Reiwa era began. Eight spring waters were newly selected in Reiwa 7 (2025), with a certificate of selection award ceremony held (January 15, Reiwa 8 / 2026). Additionally, recruitment of candidate spring waters for Reiwa 8 selection is also underway, attracting attention as a citizen-participation initiative.
Through these activities, awareness of spring water conservation is heightened throughout Yamagata Prefecture, also contributing to the revitalization of local communities.
Water Quality Survey and Ensuring Safety
Yamagata Prefecture conducts regular water quality surveys on spring waters selected for “Famous Waters of the Countryside: Yamagata’s 100 Selections.” Through these surveys, the water quality condition of each spring is scientifically grasped and used to provide information to users.
Survey items include general bacteria, coliform bacteria, pH value, turbidity, odor, and taste, with drinking water suitability evaluated.
Tourist Spots Around Daibō Shimizu and the Charm of the Zao Area
Zao Hot Spring
Located approximately 15 minutes by car from Daibō Shimizu, Zao Hot Spring is a representative hot spring area of Yamagata Prefecture with a history of 1,900 years since its opening. It is characterized by strongly acidic sulfur hot springs, known for high beauty benefits for the skin.
Combining famous water touring with hot spring visits has become a standard Yamagata tourism course.
Natural Beauty of Zao Mountains
The Zao area offers beautiful natural scenery for each season:
- Spring: Fresh greenery and alpine flowers
- Summer: Trekking and alpine plants
- Autumn: Nationally famous for autumn leaves
- Winter: Ice monsters (frost flowers) and Zao Ski Resort
When visiting Daibō Shimizu, please also enjoy the rich natural beauty of Zao.
Other Famous Water Spots in Yamagata City
Many other famous waters are scattered throughout Yamagata City besides Daibō Shimizu:
- Amida Shimizu: One of the most famous spring waters in Yamagata City
- Kazama Gofudōsama’s Clear Water: Spring water at a sacred site enshrining an Immovable Buddha
- Kumano Shrine’s Water Basin: Clear water in a shrine’s precincts
- Sugaya Daisho Fudō Myōō’s Water: Sacred water connected to faith
- Sugatahō Fudō Sonno’s Water: Spring water familiar to local residents
“Famous water touring” combining these waters is also attracting attention as a new way to enjoy Yamagata tourism.
Yamagata Prefecture’s Spring Water Culture and Local Community
Community Activities to Protect Spring Water
In many spring waters throughout Yamagata Prefecture, conservation activities by local residents are conducted. Including cleaning activities, water quality monitoring, and maintenance of surrounding environment, the community works together to protect this precious water resource.
At Daibō Shimizu as well, the region’s dedicated efforts maintain a clean and user-friendly environment. Visitors are expected to show respect for such community efforts and follow proper etiquette when using the water.
Spring Water and Yamagata’s Food Culture
Yamagata Prefecture’s rich food culture is supported by quality water resources. Particularly as a famous rice-producing region, Yamagata actively conducts rice farming and sake brewing using spring water.
Rice cooked with Daibō Shimizu water is said to have exceptional deliciousness, and many local residents use it in daily life. Additionally, using spring water when brewing coffee or tea allows you to enjoy richer flavors.
Daibō Shimizu’s Appearance Through the Four Seasons
Daibō Shimizu in Spring
As the snow melting season arrives, Daibō Shimizu’s water volume becomes even more abundant. Surrounding plants begin to sprout, and the spring pool surrounded by fresh greenery is enveloped in an atmosphere full of vitality.
During spring visits, you can also see local people enjoying a combination of wild vegetable foraging and water collection.
Daibō Shimizu in Summer
Even in hot summer, Daibō Shimizu with its cold flowing water becomes a place of refuge for those seeking coolness. The time spent in the shade listening to the sound of spring water offers a pleasantly refreshing feeling like a natural air conditioner.
Summer attracts particularly many visitors, making it important to share the space courteously with others.
Daibō Shimizu in Autumn
During Zao’s autumn foliage season, the area around Daibō Shimizu is enveloped in beautiful autumn colors. Sightseeing combining autumn leaf viewing with water collection is popular, and many tourists with cameras are seen.
The beauty of the spring pool reflecting colorful trees under a clear autumn sky is particularly special.
Daibō Shimizu in Winter
Daibō Shimizu in winter shows a quiet appearance surrounded by snowy landscape. Even in harsh cold, the flowing water never freezes, continuing to flow while rising in steam.
Winter visits require thorough cold protection measures and preparation for snowy roads. Installation of studless tires is essential.
Using Spring Water Sustainably
Considerations for Environmental Conservation
To preserve such precious natural resources for the future, each individual user’s environmental awareness is important:
- Taking garbage with you: Always take all garbage with you
- Prohibiting detergent use: Do not use detergent or soap near the spring pool
- Appropriate amount collection: Do not collect more water than necessary
- Protecting plant life: Do not damage surrounding vegetation
- Consideration for noise: Maintain a quiet environment
Coexisting with the Community
Daibō Shimizu is a water resource closely connected to residents’ daily lives. Tourists and visitors from distant areas are expected to respect the daily lives of local people and follow proper etiquette when using the water.
Particularly early morning and evening are times when local residents use it more. With a spirit of sharing, maintain an environment where everyone can use it comfortably.
How to Use the Water of Daibō Shimizu
As Drinking Water
Daibō Shimizu water is often used as drinking water as-is, but boiling before consumption is recommended for safety.
The mellow taste including mineral content is delicious even when drunk directly, but its characteristics shine when used to brew tea or coffee.
Application to Cooking
Local people utilize Daibō Shimizu water in various dishes:
- Cooking rice: Brings out the fullest umami of the rice
- Making dashi stock: Realizes the delicate flavor of Japanese cuisine
- Simmered dishes: Cooking that brings out ingredient flavors
- Miso soup: Mellow taste in the mouth
Other Uses
Beyond drinking and cooking use, it is used for the following purposes:
- Watering houseplants: Plants grow healthily
- Aquarium water for goldfish and tropical fish: No need for dechlorination
- As a cosmetic toner: Gentle on the skin, soft water
Summary: Experience the Blessings of Yamagata’s Nature at Daibō Shimizu
Daibō Shimizu is an excellent spring water spot selected for “Famous Waters of the Countryside: Yamagata’s 100 Selections,” located in Zao Ueno, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture. Boasting stable water volume and quality throughout the year, it has become a popular famous water visited by locals and people from distant areas alike.
The clear water nurtured by the rich nature of the Zao Mountains is utilized not only as drinking water but also in various aspects of cooking and daily life. The surrounding area has many tourist attractions including Zao Hot Spring, allowing you to enjoy tourism plans combining famous water touring.
When visiting, remember to be considerate of the natural environment and respectful to local residents, and follow proper etiquette. Through the experience at Daibō Shimizu, fully appreciate Yamagata’s abundant water resources and the blessings of nature.
To pass on this precious natural resource of spring water to the next generation, the awareness and actions of each individual are important. Visiting Daibō Shimizu provides an opportunity to reconsider the importance of water and the significance of natural environment conservation.
