Taki no Shimizu (Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture) | Complete Guide to the Famous Water Spot in Onogawa Hot Spring Where Legend of Ono no Komachi Remains
“Taki no Shimizu” (waterfall clear water), which springs forth in the Onogawa hot spring town of Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture, is a historic spring water with legends remaining from Ono no Komachi, a poet from the Heian period. This clear water, which has continued to spring forth unfailingly for over 1,000 years, has been selected as one of the “Famous Waters of the Village・Yamagata Hundred Selections,” and due to the beliefs that it brings beauty, health, and longevity, it has become a famous water spot visited by not only local people but also many visitors from afar.
What is Taki no Shimizu? Basic Information and Characteristics
Taki no Shimizu is a natural spring water that flows out from the foot of Shimizu Mountain in the central part of Onogawa Hot Spring, located in the southeastern part of Yonezawa City. Located beside a walking path in the hot spring town, it is beloved as an open water site where anyone can freely draw water.
Location and Basic Data
- Location: Onogawa-cho, Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
- Water Flow: Stable discharge throughout the year
- Water Temperature: Cold water around 10-15 degrees Celsius year-round
- Water Quality: Mineral water containing calcium, magnesium, and other minerals
- Selection: Famous Waters of the Village・Yamagata Hundred Selections (No. 47)
- Usage Hours: 24 hours free to use
- Fee: Free
Origin of the Name “Taki no Shimizu”
The name “Taki no Shimizu” is said to derive from the way this spring water once flowed down like a small waterfall. While it is now a maintained water site, the sight of clear water gushing forth endlessly gives visitors a sense of refreshment and healing.
The Legend of Ono no Komachi and the History of Taki no Shimizu
When talking about Taki no Shimizu, one cannot overlook its deep connection with Ono no Komachi, a famous beauty from the Heian period.
The Story of Ono no Komachi and the Opening of Onogawa Hot Spring
According to tradition, when Ono no Komachi visited this area during the Heian period, she was suffering from an eye disease. One day, the Medicine Buddha appeared in Komachi’s dream and told her, “If you wash your eyes in the hot spring of Onogawa, it will be cured.” When Komachi followed the divine message and washed her eyes in the hot spring, her eye disease was healed, and thus Onogawa Hot Spring was said to have been opened.
At that time, Taki no Shimizu was the drinking water that Komachi used, and there remains a legend that when Komachi drank this clear water, her beauty shone even more brightly.
The Miracle of Water Flowing for Over 1,000 Years
Since Ono no Komachi opened Onogawa Hot Spring, Taki no Shimizu has continued to flow for over 1,000 years without ever drying up. This fact speaks to the abundance of water veins in this area and the blessings of the natural environment, and has become a source of pride for the local people.
From the Edo period through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa periods to the present day, many people, including those of the Yonezawa Domain, have come to seek this water.
The Three Blessings of Taki no Shimizu
Taki no Shimizu is said to bring three blessings that have been passed down for many years.
The Blessing of Becoming Beautiful
Due to the legend that one receives the beauty of Ono no Komachi, it is particularly popular with women. Based on the legend that Komachi drank this water and maintained her beauty, people wishing for beauty come to visit. The clear water containing mineral content is also said to be good for skin health.
The Blessing of Health and Longevity
Clear and cold spring water has long been considered good for maintaining health. Water rich in natural minerals is believed to have the effect of regulating the body’s condition, and people wishing for health regularly come to draw water.
The Blessing of Long Life
People seeking longevity also gather in faith, wishing to receive the vitality of water that has flowed continuously for over 1,000 years without ceasing. Among local elderly people, not a few make it a habit to drink this water every day.
Water Quality and Characteristics of Taki no Shimizu
Taki no Shimizu, which was selected as one of the “Famous Waters of the Village・Yamagata Hundred Selections,” undergoes regular water quality inspections conducted by Yamagata Prefecture, ensuring its quality.
Characteristics of Water Quality
Taki no Shimizu, which flows out through the geological layer of Shimizu Mountain, maintains clear water quality as impurities are removed by passing through nature’s filter. It is characterized by a gentle taste with appropriate amounts of mineral content such as calcium and magnesium.
Since the water temperature remains nearly constant throughout the year, it is cold in summer and does not freeze even in winter, making it usable year-round.
Uses
Local people and visitors use Taki no Shimizu for various purposes:
- Drinking water: As drinking water as is
- Tea: Said to have a mellow flavor when used for tea
- Water for diluting spirits: Ideal for water diluting Japanese sake or whiskey
- Cooking: For cooking rice, making broth, and cooking in general
- Coffee: Used when brewing coffee or tea
In particular, people who practice tea ceremony and enthusiasts of particular water dilutions often visit from afar, and one can see people carrying away large quantities using poly tanks.
Access to Taki no Shimizu
Taki no Shimizu is located in the central part of the Onogawa hot spring town, and access is relatively easy.
Access by Car
Via Tohoku Central Expressway
- About 15 minutes from Yonezawa Central IC
- Via National Route 121 toward Onogawa Hot Spring
- Directional signs available upon entering the hot spring town
Parking Information
- Public parking available in Onogawa hot spring town (free)
- About a few minutes’ walk to Taki no Shimizu
- If using a hot spring inn’s parking, confirmation with the facility is required
Access by Public Transportation
From JR Yonezawa Station
- Take Yamagata Interchange Bus “Onogawa Hot Spring Line” (about 30 minutes)
- Get off at “Onogawa Hot Spring” bus stop, about 5 minutes on foot
- Bus frequency is limited, so advance confirmation of the timetable is recommended
By Taxi
- About 20 minutes by taxi from Yonezawa Station
- Fare is approximately 3,000-4,000 yen
Walking Tour
Since the Onogawa hot spring town is small enough to walk around, if staying at a hot spring inn, it is recommended to visit Taki no Shimizu while taking a leisurely walk before or after check-in. It takes about 5-10 minutes to reach on foot while enjoying the charm of the hot spring town.
On-Site Report of Taki no Shimizu
When actually visiting Taki no Shimizu, there is a water site where clear water springs forth in the quiet atmosphere of the Onogawa hot spring town.
Appearance of the Water Site
At the well-maintained stone water site, clear water constantly flows out, allowing visitors to freely draw water. The area surrounding the water site is kept clean, and one can feel the affection of the local people.
A ladle is provided for drawing water, so one can try a taste even with empty hands. However, if bringing away a large quantity, it is necessary to bring a container such as a plastic bottle or poly tank.
Atmosphere of the Surroundings
The area around Taki no Shimizu is an area that retains the charm of a traditional hot spring town. Stone-paved roads, wooden hot spring inns, and the scene of steam rising from the hot springs heal visitors.
An explanation board about Ono no Komachi is set up near the water site, where one can learn about the history and legends. Depending on the season, flowers bloom in the surrounding area, showing different faces in each season.
Precautions When Visiting
- Bring a container: Prepare a clean container if bringing water home
- Observe etiquette: Avoid occupying the site for long periods; show the spirit of consideration
- Take your trash with you: Take all trash with you to protect the surrounding environment
- Winter precautions: The surface may be icy, so be careful with your footing
- Drinking decision: When drinking raw water, it is at your own risk (boiling is recommended if worried)
The Charm of Onogawa Hot Spring and Nearby Attractions
If you visit Taki no Shimizu, you will certainly want to enjoy the charm of Onogawa Hot Spring as well.
Characteristics of Onogawa Hot Spring
Onogawa Hot Spring is known as the inner sanctuary of Yonezawa City and is a quiet hot spring resort. With a history of 1,200 years since its opening, it is known as Ono no Komachi’s hot spring, earning it the reputation of “beautiful woman’s hot spring.”
Spring Quality: Sodium, Calcium-Chloride, Sulfate Hot Spring
Efficacy: Neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, fatigue recovery, health promotion, etc.
The hot spring town has day-use bathing facilities, allowing tourists to easily enjoy the hot spring.
Recommended Nearby Spots
Amayu (Nun’s Bath)
A communal bath of Onogawa Hot Spring, beloved by local people. Authentic hot springs can be enjoyed at reasonable prices.
Hotaru no Sato (Firefly Village)
In early summer, fireflies can be seen dancing along the Onogawa River, creating a fantastic landscape.
Yonezawa City Center
About 15 minutes by car from the Yonezawa city center, there are historical tourist spots scattered throughout, including Uesugi Shrine, Yonezawa Castle Site, and Uesugi Family Mausoleum.
Yonezawa Beef Cuisine
Yonezawa is home to Yonezawa beef, one of Japan’s three major wagyu beef brands. There are numerous restaurants in the hot spring town and city center where you can enjoy Yonezawa beef.
About “Famous Waters of the Village・Yamagata Hundred Selections”
Taki no Shimizu has been selected as one of the “Famous Waters of the Village・Yamagata Hundred Selections” designated by Yamagata Prefecture.
Overview of the Selection System
This system aims to select excellent spring waters and clear streams within Yamagata Prefecture and to promote their conservation and use. Water quality, historical and cultural value, connection with the region, and conservation activities are comprehensively evaluated.
Water Quality Inspection Implementation
Yamagata Prefecture conducts regular water quality inspections for selected famous waters and publishes the results. This allows users to use famous water with confidence.
Taki no Shimizu also undergoes regular water quality inspections, with its quality continuously confirmed.
Conservation Activities
Local residents and the Onogawa Hot Spring Tourism Association, among others, lead cleaning activities and environmental conservation activities for Taki no Shimizu. Through such steady efforts, the spring water that has flowed for over 1,000 years has been preserved to the present day.
Model Courses for Enjoying Taki no Shimizu
Here are suggestions for enjoying Taki no Shimizu and the surrounding Onogawa hot spring area.
Day Trip Course (Time Required: About 3-4 hours)
- 10:00 Arrival at Yonezawa Station, proceed to Onogawa Hot Spring by rental car or bus
- 10:30 Arrival at Onogawa Hot Spring, explore the hot spring town
- 11:00 Draw famous water at Taki no Shimizu, try a taste
- 11:30 Day-use bathing at a hot spring inn (enjoy the beautiful woman’s hot spring)
- 13:00 Lunch at a dining spot in the hot spring town
- 14:00 Explore the surrounding area, purchase souvenirs
- 15:00 Move to Yonezawa city center, visit attractions such as Uesugi Shrine
Overnight Course (1 Night, 2 Days)
Day 1
- Afternoon: Arrival at Onogawa Hot Spring, check-in
- Exploration: Visit Taki no Shimizu, explore the hot spring town
- Evening: Hot spring bath
- Night: Enjoy local cuisine including Yonezawa beef
Day 2
- Morning: Morning bath, morning water at Taki no Shimizu
- Morning: After check-out, explore Yonezawa city center
- Noon: Yonezawa ramen or Yonezawa beef lunch
- Afternoon: Visit attractions such as Uesugi Shrine and Yonezawa Castle Site, then head home
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy Taki no Shimizu
Taki no Shimizu has different charms throughout the four seasons.
Spring (March – May)
During the snow-melting season, nature around the area comes into bud. Particularly beautiful when cherry blossoms bloom in the hot spring town, one can enjoy both flower viewing and a tour of famous waters simultaneously. The water temperature is cold and has a refreshing feel.
Summer (June – August)
In early summer, fireflies dance, enveloping the area in a fantastic atmosphere. During the hot season, the cold spring water tastes particularly delicious, and the area is crowded with people seeking coolness. It is also ideal for an evening stroll to enjoy the cool breeze.
Fall (September – November)
During the autumn foliage season, the surrounding mountains are tinged with color, and the hot spring town takes on autumn hues. The clear water tasted in crisp air is exceptional. It is also the new rice season, and rice cooked with Taki no Shimizu is exquisite.
Winter (December – February)
The hot spring town surrounded by snow is full of charm. Warm tea brewed with Taki no Shimizu soothes a body cooled by the cold. Since water does not freeze even in winter, it is available year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions When Visiting Taki no Shimizu
Q: Can I draw water for free?
A: Yes, you can freely draw water at no cost. However, you must bring your own container.
Q: Is it safe to drink?
A: Regular water quality inspections are conducted, but drinking raw water is at your own risk. If worried, boiling before consumption is recommended.
Q: How much water can I take home?
A: There are no particular restrictions, but please show consideration for other users with the spirit of mutual accommodation.
Q: Is there a parking lot?
A: There is public parking in the Onogawa hot spring town, from which it is a few minutes’ walk.
Q: Can I use it in winter?
A: Yes, it is available year-round. However, in winter, the surface may become icy, so please be careful with your footing.
Conclusion: Experience History and Blessings at Taki no Shimizu
Taki no Shimizu at Onogawa Hot Spring in Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture, is not merely a spring water spot but a culturally valuable famous water where the history and legend of Ono no Komachi of over 1,000 years still live and breathe.
Whether you visit in search of the three blessings of beauty, health, and longevity, purely to taste delicious water, or as part of a hot spring trip, each visitor can enjoy it according to their own purpose.
Selected as one of the “Famous Waters of the Village・Yamagata Hundred Selections” and undergoing regular water quality inspections, please try this safe and reliable famous water at least once. Simply seeing the sight of clear water gushing forth should leave you with a refreshed and clear feeling.
When visiting Onogawa Hot Spring, be sure to add Taki no Shimizu to your must-visit list along with the hot spring itself, and experience the richness of Yamagata’s natural bounty and historical depth.
