Beppu Benzaiten Pond Spring Water, Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture – Mystical Cobalt Blue | Complete Guide to Japan’s 100 Best Waters
The Beppu Benzaiten Pond spring water located in Akiyoshi-cho, Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture is a representative water spot in Japan, where crystal-clear cobalt blue water radiates a mystical glow. This spring water pond, designated as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waters by the Ministry of the Environment in 1985 (Showa 60), continues to captivate many tourists as a natural miracle created by the karst topography of Akiyoshi Plateau.
What is Beppu Benzaiten Pond | The Mystical Pond of Japan’s 100 Best Waters
Beppu Benzaiten Pond is a spring water pond with a circumference of approximately 50 meters that springs forth within the grounds of Beppu Itsukushima Shrine. With a maximum water depth of approximately 4 meters at its deepest point, it boasts astonishing transparency that allows visibility all the way to the pond bottom. The pond’s greatest feature is its beautiful cobalt blue or turquoise blue water color that changes with the angle of sunlight.
Reasons for Selection as Japan’s 100 Best Waters
On July 20, 1985, the Ministry of the Environment designated Beppu Benzaiten Pond spring water as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waters. This designation was made through comprehensive evaluation of spring water and river water with excellent quality throughout the nation, considering preservation conditions, local resident usage, and historical and cultural value. Beppu Benzaiten Pond is particularly highly regarded in the “Outstanding Famous Water for Tourist Destinations” category, with its beauty and water quality recognized.
Characteristics and Water Quality of Spring Water
The spring water of Beppu Benzaiten Pond maintains a constant temperature of approximately 14 degrees Celsius throughout the year. This stable water temperature is due to the water springing forth from deep beneath the karst topography of Akiyoshi Plateau. The daily spring water volume reaches approximately 55,000 tons, boasting abundant water supply.
The water quality is extremely excellent, suitable for drinking as mineral water containing adequate calcium. The extremely high transparency allowing clear visibility up to the 4-meter deep pond bottom is due to the clean water naturally filtered through the limestone layers of Akiyoshi Plateau. It has been used as drinking water since ancient times in the local area, and even now many people visit carrying pet bottles to draw water.
Why is it Blue? The Mystery of Cobalt Blue
The greatest charm of Beppu Benzaiten Pond is its mystical cobalt blue water color. Many visitors exclaim in surprise, “Why is it so blue?” In fact, the precise mechanism of this blue color has not been completely elucidated, though several factors are considered.
Scientific Consideration of Blue Color
The blueness of water is believed to be deeply related to light scattering phenomena. Water with extremely high transparency efficiently reflects and scatters the blue wavelengths of light from sunlight. In the case of Beppu Benzaiten Pond, it is speculated that the extremely high transparency, adequate water depth, and the whiteness of the limestone bottom combine to produce a vivid cobalt blue.
Additionally, it is pointed out that trace mineral components contained in the water and calcium ions dissolved from limestone may influence light refraction and reflection. The subtle changes in water color depending on weather conditions, time of day, and angle of sunlight result from these complex optical phenomena.
Most Beautiful Viewing Time
The blue of Beppu Benzaiten Pond can be appreciated most beautifully on clear days from late morning to around noon. During times when the sun is high in the sky, light reaches to the bottom of the pond, and the water’s transparency and cobalt blue hue stand out most prominently. Even on cloudy days, water transparency remains unchanged, but the vividness of the blue is more subdued compared to clear days.
The appearance also changes by season, showing a deep cobalt blue under the strong summer sunlight and a turquoise blue-like hue under the soft winter light.
The Relationship Between Akiyoshi Plateau Karst Topography and Spring Water
The existence of Beppu Benzaiten Pond spring water is closely related to the geological structure of Akiyoshi Plateau, one of Japan’s largest karst plateaus. The unique topography of this region creates a rare beautiful spring water in the world.
What is Karst Topography
Karst topography is a special landform created over long periods as land composed of limestone and other water-soluble rocks is eroded by rainwater and groundwater. Akiyoshi Plateau is a limestone plateau formed by the uplift of coral reefs from approximately 350 million years ago, extending over a total area of approximately 130 square kilometers as Japan’s largest karst plateau.
Natural Filtration System
Rainwater falling on Akiyoshi Plateau seeps into limestone strata, penetrating deep underground. Through this process, limestone functions as a natural filter, removing impurities. Simultaneously, adequate mineral components dissolve from the limestone, becoming contained in the water, making it delicious water suitable for drinking.
Beppu Benzaiten Pond is a place where groundwater that has journeyed through the depths of Akiyoshi Plateau over a long time springs forth from the bottom of a doline (a funnel-shaped depression). Depending on the depth of the groundwater vein and the flow path, constant water temperature and quality are maintained throughout the year.
Relation to Akiyoshi Cave
Beneath Akiyoshi Plateau, Akiyoshi Cave, one of Japan’s foremost stalactite caves, and over 400 other stalactite caves have been confirmed. These stalactite caves may be connected through the same groundwater system as Beppu Benzaiten Pond. The groundwater flowing through Akiyoshi Cave ultimately appears at the surface as spring water such as Beppu Benzaiten Pond.
The History of Beppu Itsukushima Shrine and Benzaiten Pond
Beppu Benzaiten Pond is not merely a natural spring water pond, but located within the grounds of Beppu Itsukushima Shrine. This shrine and pond have a history of legends and beliefs handed down in the region since ancient times.
Origins of Beppu Itsukushima Shrine
Beppu Itsukushima Shrine is a shrine to which the Itsukushima Shrine of Hiroshima Prefecture was invited and enshrines Ichikishimahime no Mikoto (Market Island Princess). Ichikishimahime no Mikoto is known as the goddess of water and Benzaiten, and has long been worshipped as a deity of water and abundance. The name “Benzaiten” of Beppu Benzaiten Pond also derives from this Benzaiten faith.
The Tale of the Long-Lived Man
Beppu Benzaiten Pond has an interesting legend passed down in the region. Long ago, a wealthy man living in this area used the pond’s water to irrigate his fields and rice paddies, obtaining abundant harvests. One time, the wealthy man expressed his gratitude to the pond’s deity by building a shrine and enshrining it carefully. According to the legend, the water volume then increased further, and surrounding villages also became enriched.
This legend speaks to how the people of the region have long cherished spring water and utilized it with grateful hearts. Even now, local people treasure this pond as a sacred place and continue to protect it carefully.
Belief and Conservation Activities
Various festivals are held throughout the year at Beppu Itsukushima Shrine. Cleaning and conservation activities by local residents are also conducted regularly, and the beauty of the shrine and pond is maintained. Because it is cherished not only as a tourist destination but also as an object of belief, this beautiful environment is protected.
Usage and How to Enjoy Beppu Benzaiten Pond
Beppu Benzaiten Pond spring water can be utilized and enjoyed in various ways, not just by observing it.
Drawing Famous Water
The water of Beppu Benzaiten Pond can be drawn and taken home as drinking water. A water drawing station is set up within the shrine grounds, and many people visit carrying pet bottles and poly tanks. However, it is recommended that if you drink it, you boil it just in case.
Water can be drawn for free, but there is a custom of placing donation coins in the offering box as an expression of gratitude to the shrine. Among local people, many regularly come to draw this water and use it for tea, coffee, and cooking.
Rainbow Trout Fishing Experience at Mine City Fish Farming Facility
At the fish farming facility attached to Beppu Benzaiten Pond, you can experience rainbow trout fishing utilizing spring water. Rainbow trout raised in clear, clean water is reputed to be delicious with no unpleasant smell.
At the fishing pond, you can also have the fish you catch cooked on the spot, and you can enjoy fresh rainbow trout with salt or fried. It is a popular activity for families, enjoyable for both children and adults. Since fishing rods and bait rental are available, you can experience it even if you come empty-handed.
Best Photography Spots
Beppu Benzaiten Pond is also known as one of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s representative photo spots. The mystical cobalt blue water surface is popular on social media as a scenic view that photographs well.
As a photography point, capturing the pond frontally is the standard composition, but a composition including surrounding trees and the shrine’s torii gate also has charm. Photography using reflections on the water surface and close-ups showing the pond bottom transparency are also recommended.
During times when visitors are numerous, people tend to be captured in photos, so early morning or weekday mornings are relatively quiet times for photography.
Usage as Irrigation Water
The spring water of Beppu Benzaiten Pond has long been used as irrigation water for surrounding farmland. The abundant daily water volume of 55,000 tons is sufficient to nourish an extensive area of rice paddies and fields. Even now, it serves as an important water source essential to the region’s agriculture.
This method of usage has great value not only in utilizing water but also in supporting local food production and maintaining agricultural culture.
Access Information | How to Get to Beppu Benzaiten Pond
Beppu Benzaiten Pond is located in Akiyoshi-cho, Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, and is easily accessible from Akiyoshi Plateau and Akiyoshi Cave.
Access by Car
From the Chugoku Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Mine IC (approximately 10 km)
- Approximately 10 minutes from Ogori-Hagi Road Akiyoshi Plateau IC (approximately 7 km)
From Major Cities
- Approximately 40 minutes from Yamaguchi City
- Approximately 60 minutes from Shimonoseki City
- Approximately 90 minutes from Hiroshima City
A free parking lot is equipped, accommodating approximately 30 regular vehicles. Congestion may occur during tourist seasons and holidays, so visiting during early hours is recommended.
Access by Public Transportation
By JR
- Approximately 40 minutes by bus from “Shin-Yamaguchi Station” on the JR Sanyo Main Line
- Approximately 20 minutes by taxi from “Mine Station” on the JR Mine Line
Public transportation access is somewhat inconvenient, so rental car use or tourist taxi use may also be considered. Sightseeing bus tours that visit Akiyoshi Plateau and Akiyoshi Cave as a set are also available.
Basic Information
Address: 1578 Beppu, Akiyoshi-cho, Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
Phone Number: 0837-64-0305 (Mine City Tourism Association)
Hours: Shrine grounds freely accessible (Fish farming facility approximately 9:00～17:00)
Closed: None (Fish farming facility irregular closures)
Admission: Free (Fish farming facility fishing experience requires separate fee)
Required Time: 20-30 minutes for viewing only, 1-2 hours including fishing experience
Nearby Tourist Attractions | Must-Visit Destinations to Visit Together
Visiting nearby tourist attractions when visiting Beppu Benzaiten Pond makes for a more fulfilling trip.
Akiyoshi Cave
Located approximately 10 minutes by car from Beppu Benzaiten Pond, Akiyoshi Cave is one of Japan’s largest stalactite caves. Within the approximately 10 km-long cave passage, the grand sculptural beauty created by nature such as hundred plate formations and golden pillars spread out. Connected through the same groundwater system as Beppu Benzaitan Pond’s water, visiting as a set allows you to experience the circulation of Akiyoshi Plateau’s groundwater.
Akiyoshi Plateau
Akiyoshi Plateau, Japan’s largest karst plateau, is located approximately 15 minutes by car from Beppu Benzaiten Pond. The vista created by countless limestone pillars (karrenwelt) scattered across grassland is breathtaking, and the view from observation points is spectacular. Considering that the Akiyoshi Plateau topography creates the spring water of Beppu Benzaiten Pond, the experience is deeply moving.
Akiyoshi Plateau Natural Animal Park Safari Land
Recommended for families is Akiyoshi Plateau Natural Animal Park Safari Land, approximately 20 minutes by car from Beppu Benzaiten Pond. You can observe animals such as lions and tigers up close while driving through the park. Animal interaction experiences are also available and are popular with children.
Michi no Eki Mitou Rest Area
Michi no Eki Mitou Rest Area, approximately 25 minutes by car from Beppu Benzaiten Pond, is a rest stop with local specialties and fresh agricultural products. A restaurant serving dishes using Akiyoshi Plateau beef and local vegetables is also available, making it ideal for a drive break.
Yamaguchi Museum of Fossils
Yamaguchi Museum of Fossils displays fossils from approximately 350 million years ago when Akiyoshi Plateau was formed. You can learn about the history of how the limestone through which Beppu Benzaiten Pond’s water flows was formed.
Precautions When Visiting Beppu Benzaiten Pond
To protect the beautiful natural environment, several manners must be observed when visiting.
Consideration as a Sacred Place
Beppu Benzaiten Pond is located within the grounds of Beppu Itsukushima Shrine and is also an object of belief for local people. Refrain strictly from making noise or littering. It is proper etiquette to pay respects at the shrine before viewing the pond.
Cooperation in Water Quality Conservation
Absolutely avoid entering the pond or throwing objects into it. When drawing water, draw from designated locations and avoid drawing directly from the pond. Consideration is necessary to hand down this precious water selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waters to the next generation.
Photography Manners
Photography is free, but be considerate so as not to disturb other visitors. When using a tripod, be careful not to block pathways. Additionally, drone usage is prohibited within the shrine grounds.
Seasonal Clothing
The area around the pond has much shade and feels relatively cool even in summer. During seasons when insects such as mosquitoes are abundant, insect repellent spray is convenient. During winter, temperatures are lower, so take proper cold weather precautions.
Seasonal Expressions of Beppu Benzaiten Pond
Beppu Benzaiten Pond displays different appearances depending on the season.
Spring (March to May)
Spring brings beautiful fresh green foliage, with trees around the pond beginning to sprout. During cherry blossom season, the contrast between pink flower petals and the cobalt blue water surface is spectacular. The temperature is also comfortable, making it an ideal season for tourism.
Summer (June to August)
In summer, the greenery deepens and tree shade provides coolness. Under strong summer sunlight, the pond’s blue appears most vivid. However, this is also the season with the most tourists, so visiting early in the morning is recommended.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn brings beautiful autumn foliage, with the contrast between trees colored red and yellow and the blue pond creating spectacular views. Mid to late November is particularly ideal for viewing autumn leaves. The temperature is also comfortable, allowing leisurely enjoyment of walks.
Winter (December to February)
Winter has few visitors, sometimes allowing you to have exclusive access to the pond. On snowy days, Beppu Benzaiten Pond appears like a cobalt blue jewel floating in a world of white, showing fantastical beauty. However, care must be taken regarding road surface freezing.
Conservation Activities of Beppu Benzaiten Pond Spring Water
Since its designation as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waters, various efforts have been undertaken to protect the water quality and environment of Beppu Benzaiten Pond.
Conservation Activities by Local Residents
Centering on local self-governing associations and the Mine City Tourism Association, regular cleaning activities and environmental conservation activities are conducted. Cleaning around the shrine grounds and pond, grass cutting, and other work are performed to maintain the beautiful landscape.
Water Quality Monitoring
Regular water quality inspections are conducted by Yamaguchi Prefecture and Mine City. The spring water quality is consistently maintained at high levels, and the results are made public. Conservation of the entire Akiyoshi Plateau environment also contributes to maintaining Beppu Benzaiten Pond’s water quality.
Balancing Tourism and Conservation
Balancing the maintenance of charm as a tourist destination with natural environment conservation is important. Mine City’s basic policy is to avoid excessive tourist development and maintain the natural state. Each visitor’s manners contribute to protecting this beautiful spring water.
Summary | Experience the Charm of Beppu Benzaiten Pond Spring Water
Beppu Benzaiten Pond spring water is a natural miracle created by the karst topography of Akiyoshi Plateau. The excellence of its water quality designated as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waters, the mystical beauty of cobalt blue, and the cultural value woven by regional beliefs and history are unique and incomparable.
When visiting Yamaguchi Prefecture, be sure to visit Beppu Benzaiten Pond. While viewing the crystal-clear blue water, you should be able to appreciate the greatness and beauty of nature. Visiting together with Akiyoshi Cave and Akiyoshi Plateau allows deeper understanding of the natural mechanism of groundwater circulation.
Beppu Benzaiten Pond offers various ways to enjoy itself—drawing famous water to take home, experiencing rainbow trout fishing at the fish farming facility, and enjoying photography. This location, which displays a different face each season, offers new discoveries no matter how many times you visit.
To hand down the beautiful natural environment to future generations, please observe proper manners during visits and show understanding and cooperation for the region’s conservation activities. The mystical blue of Beppu Benzaiten Pond spring water is protected by the environmental consideration of each and every one of us.
