Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring (Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture) | Complete Guide to the Little-Known Horai Mountain Spring Water Spot
Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring, located in Kakihira Town, Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture, is a spring water spot that has been cherished by local residents for a long time. While it is not as well-known as the “Izuruhara Benten Pond Spring Water,” which was selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waters, it remains an important water source symbolizing the region’s rich water culture and continues to be used by many people today.
This article provides a comprehensive introduction to Sano City’s famous water culture, including the characteristics and history of Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring, access methods, and nearby spring water spots.
What is Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring?
Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring is clear water that flows from the grounds of Enkyoin Temple at 180 Kakihira Town, Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture. Enkyoin is a temple situated quietly in a mountainous area, and the spring that flows within its grounds is called “Itsukushima Spring.” It has been cherished by local residents as a water source for daily life and as an object of faith.
The Origin of Itsukushima Spring
The name Itsukushima is believed to derive from the Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture. As the faith of Ichikishimahime no Mikoto, known as the goddess of water, spread throughout the country, it was not uncommon for “Itsukushima” to be given as a name to places where clear spring water flows. The Itsukushima Spring at Enkyoin can be said to be a place that conveys this tradition of water deity faith to the present day.
Characteristics of the Spring Water
The water of Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring is groundwater from Horai Mountain (approximately 400 meters above sea level) that flows to the surface. Water filtered through the rich natural environment of the mountainous region is clear and transparent, maintaining a stable water temperature throughout the year. Local residents have used this water as drinking water since ancient times.
About Enkyoin
Enkyoin is a temple located in Kakihira Town, Sano City. While detailed information about when it was founded is limited, it is believed to have a long history as the center of regional faith.
Basic Information
- Location: 180 Kakihira Town, Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture
- Phone Number: 0283-87-0237
- Access: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Sano city center, located in a quiet mountainous environment
The temple grounds are surrounded by nature, and visitors can enjoy seasonal landscapes throughout the year. Particularly during the fresh green season and autumn foliage, there are beautiful vistas worth visiting.
The Three Famous Waters of Horai Mountain
Around Horai Mountain in Sano City, there exists a group of springs called “The Three Famous Waters of Horai Mountain.” These have been cherished by locals since ancient times and each has its own characteristics.
The Composition of the Three Famous Waters
- Hōshō Spring (宝生水)
Clear water that flows at the foot of Horai Mountain, boasting abundant water volume. It is a popular spot visited not only by local residents but also by people from distant areas to draw water.
- Horai Spring (蓬莱水)
A spring bearing the name of Horai Mountain, it has been revered as sacred water since ancient times. It is renowned for its water quality, and is said to enhance the flavor when used for tea or coffee.
- Spring of the Sage (上人の水)
A spring that is said to have been used by high monks during their ascetic practices. Among the three famous waters, it is particularly held sacred, and serves as a water source with strong spiritual significance.
These springs are scattered throughout the mountainous areas of Sano City’s Nogami district (former Tanuma Town), and together with Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring, they form the region’s rich water culture.
Relationship to “Izuruhara Benten Pond Spring Water,” a Japan’s 100 Famous Waters
The most famous water in Sano City is Izuruhara Benten Pond Spring Water. Selected as one of the “100 Famous Waters of Japan” by the Ministry of the Environment in 1985, it is also designated as a natural monument of Tochigi Prefecture.
Characteristics of Izuruhara Benten Pond Spring Water
- Daily flow volume: Approximately 2,400 tons per day
- Water temperature: Stable at approximately 16 degrees Celsius year-round
- Transparency: Extremely high, allowing visibility to the bottom of the pond
- Ecosystem: Numerous carp inhabit the pond, making it a popular tourist spot
Izuruhara Benten Pond is located within Isoyama Park, and tourist facilities such as Izuruhara Benten Shrine (Akemi Hot Spring Benten-no-Yu) are also developed nearby. When visiting Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring, extending a visit to this Japan’s 100 Famous Waters will allow for a deeper understanding of Sano City’s water culture.
Geology of Sano City and the Relationship to Spring Waters
From the northern to northwestern parts of Sano City extends a mountainous region with limestone formations. This geological structure creates abundant groundwater and is the factor that forms diverse spring water spots such as Izuruhara Benten Pond, Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring, and the Three Famous Waters of Horai Mountain. Water that passes through limestone layers is naturally filtered and retains clarity while containing moderate amounts of minerals.
How to Access Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring
Since Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring is located in a mountainous area, access by automobile is the primary means.
Access by Car
- From Sano Fujioka IC on the Tohoku Expressway: Approximately 25 minutes
- From Sano city center: Go north on National Route 293, then via prefectural roads for approximately 20 minutes
- Parking: Limited space available on the temple grounds (advance confirmation recommended)
Access by Public Transportation
Access by public transportation is difficult. Since there is considerable distance from the nearest bus stop, the use of a rental car or taxi is recommended.
Notes When Visiting
- Caution is necessary when driving through narrow mountain roads
- During winter, there is risk of road icing, so installation of studless tires is recommended
- Out of respect for the temple grounds, please observe quietly while viewing
- Bring a container if you plan to collect water
Methods of Using Spring Water and Precautions
When using spring water such as Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring, there are several points to note.
Regarding Consumption
Spring water is a gift of nature, but when consuming it, please keep the following in mind:
- Boiling recommended: If drinking raw water, it is at your own risk. It is recommended to boil before drinking
- Water quality testing: Regular water quality testing may not be conducted, so those with health concerns should avoid it
- Storage method: Place in a clean container, store in refrigeration, and use quickly
Manners and Rules
- Take trash away: To protect the natural environment, always take trash with you
- Consideration for private property: If located on temple or private grounds, obtain permission before use
- Do not monopolize: Be mindful of other users and avoid prolonged occupation
- Spirit of gratitude: Do not forget gratitude for nature’s blessings and the managers’ care
Tourist Spots Around Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring
By visiting tourist spots in the surrounding area when you visit Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring, you can more deeply experience the charm of Sano City.
Izuruhara Benten Pond (Isoyama Park)
The aforementioned spring water pond selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waters. It is attractive for its high transparency and beautiful natural environment, and many tourists visit throughout the seasons. Walking paths are developed around the pond, allowing visitors to enjoy a stroll.
Izuruhara Benten Shrine (Fukujuin Temple)
An ancient temple located right near Izuruhara Benten Pond, known as a spiritual place dedicated to Benzaiten. The views from the temple grounds are also wonderful, and it is particularly crowded with worshippers during the autumn foliage season.
Sano Ramen
Sano City is also famous for the local cuisine “Sano Ramen.” Characterized by flat noodles made with green bamboo and clear soup, the city has numerous famous shops. Enjoying local ramen after visiting the spring water sites is also recommended.
Sano Premium Outlet
A representative commercial facility in Sano City with numerous domestic and international brand names at an outlet mall. Visitors can enjoy shopping and dining, and it is also popular with families.
Spring Water and Famous Water Culture in Tochigi Prefecture
Tochigi Prefecture is blessed with a rich natural environment, and excellent spring water spots are scattered throughout the prefecture.
Major Famous Water Spots in Tochigi Prefecture
- Shonin Sawayugusui Spring (Shioya Town): One of Japan’s 100 Famous Waters, boasting abundant daily spring water volume of approximately 65,000 tons
- Ooya River Clear Stream (Nikko City): A clear stream flowing through Nikko National Park, characterized by beautiful gorge scenery
- Kinugawa River Source (Nikko City): The Kinugawa River source area has clear water flowing from it
These famous water spots demonstrate the richness of Tochigi Prefecture’s natural environment and have been deeply connected to the lives and culture of the region’s people.
Regional Development Utilizing Spring Water
In Sano City and other municipalities in Tochigi Prefecture, efforts are being promoted to utilize spring water as a regional resource. Spring water spots play important roles not only in tourism promotion but also in establishing regional brands and as venues for environmental education.
The Significance of Visiting Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring
While Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring is not a famous tourist destination like Izuruhara Benten Pond, that is precisely why it is worth visiting.
Healing in a Quiet Environment
Unlike famous tourist attractions crowded with visitors, Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring quietly flows in a peaceful mountain temple. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city, you can spend time calming your mind while listening to the sound of clear water.
Understanding Local Water Culture
The water culture of Sano City is not limited to Izuruhara Benten Pond. By visiting small spring water spots scattered throughout the region, such as Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring and the Three Famous Waters of Horai Mountain, you can more deeply understand the history and culture of how the people of this land have lived with water.
The Importance of Natural Environmental Conservation
The fact that clear spring water continues to flow is because the surrounding natural environment has been preserved. By visiting these spring water spots, you can feel the importance of natural environmental conservation and raise awareness of passing on a beautiful water environment to future generations.
Conclusion: In Search of Sano City’s Hidden Famous Waters
Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring is a little-known spring water spot that continues to flow quietly in the mountainous region of Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture. Although it does not have the fame of Izuruhara Benten Pond, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waters, it remains an important water source cherished by local residents since ancient times and continues to serve its role today.
Together with the Three Famous Waters of Horai Mountain (Hōshō Spring, Horai Spring, and Spring of the Sage), Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring forms this region’s rich water culture. When visiting Sano City, why not venture not only to famous tourist attractions but also to locally rooted spring water spots such as this?
By touching the blessings of clear water, you will be able to feel the importance of nature and the livelihoods of the local people who have continued to protect it. Enkyoin Itsukushima Spring, a hidden famous water spot in Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture. Please consider adding it to your list of travel destinations.
