Metori Springwater (Yamanashi Prefecture) Complete Guide｜Hidden Gem of Japan’s Top 100 Waters with History and Access Information
What is Metori Springwater
Metori Springwater (めとりゆうすい) is one of Japan’s most representative famous waters, located in Nagasaka Town, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture. This spring, which emerges at approximately 1,160 meters elevation on the southern foothills of the Yatsugatake Mountains, is known as an important springwater site that comprises “Yatsugatake Southern Foothills Plateau Springwater Group,” one of the “Top 100 Famous Waters” selected by the Ministry of the Environment (then the Environment Agency) in 1985 (Showa 60).
The greatest characteristic of Metori Springwater lies in its abundant discharge volume and pristine water quality. It boasts a stable discharge of approximately 800 liters per second, with water temperature maintained at around 10°C year-round. This cold, clear water has served as the source of the Metori River, supporting the lives of people in downstream areas since ancient times.
Currently, Metori Springwater is utilized as an important water supply source for Nagasaka District in Hokuto City, with the water source area strictly managed and surrounded by fencing. Accordingly, entry into and water collection from the water source area are generally prohibited; however, environments have been developed downstream where visitors can enjoy the springwater, allowing many tourists and local residents to benefit from the clear stream.
Yatsugatake Southern Foothills Plateau Springwater Group and Top 100 Famous Waters
What are the Top 100 Famous Waters
The Top 100 Famous Waters is a selection of clear waters from across Japan chosen by the Environment Agency (currently the Ministry of the Environment) in 1985 (Showa 60), established with the purpose of appealing widely to the nation about the importance of water environment conservation. The selection criteria considered water quality, water volume, public access to water, and preservation activities, resulting in 100 famous waters selected from throughout Japan.
Composition of Yatsugatake Southern Foothills Plateau Springwater Group
Metori Springwater is registered in the Top 100 Famous Waters as part of the “Yatsugatake Southern Foothills Plateau Springwater Group.” This springwater group consists of the following three major springwater sites.
Sabuichi Springwater (さぶいちゆうすい)
A springwater with a legend that during the Sengoku period, Takeda Shingen created a system to equally distribute water to three villages to settle water disputes. The triangular water distribution facility that gave rise to its name remains a tourist attraction visited by many.
Ootaki Springwater (おおたきゆうすい)
Springwater that has been utilized for daily water use and public water supply in the Kobuchisawa area, developed as a springwater park and enjoyed by local residents and tourists.
Metori Springwater (めとりゆうすい)
Located at the highest elevation (approximately 1,160m) among the Yatsugatake southern foothills springwaters, functioning as an important water source for Nagasaka District.
These three springwaters are groundwater nurtured by Yatsugatake’s rich forests emerging at the surface, scattered around the 1,000-meter elevation mark. The Yatsugatake southern foothills reportedly contain more than 50 other springwaters, and this entire region forms the water resources of Hokuto City, known as “Japan’s Premier Water Village.”
Geography and Natural Environment of Metori Springwater
Location and Topography
Metori Springwater is located in the northern part of Nagasaka Town, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, on the southern foothills of the Yatsugatake mountain range. Positioned at approximately 1,160 meters elevation, it is the highest-altitude springwater among the Yatsugatake southern foothills springwater group.
The surrounding area features gently sloping terrain covered by abundant forests in a natural environment. This topography forms a natural mechanism where rain and snowmelt falling on Yatsugatake permeate underground, filtered over long periods into clear groundwater that emerges as a spring.
Water Quality and Temperature Characteristics
Metori Springwater exhibits excellent water quality, classified as soft water. Year-round water temperature is maintained at approximately 10°C, remaining cold even in summer and not freezing in winter, maintaining stable temperature throughout the seasons. This constant water temperature indicates the characteristics of groundwater emerging from deep underground, continuously supplying clear, pristine water through all four seasons.
The discharge volume of approximately 800 liters per second is abundant, and this stable water volume serves as the foundation for the Metori River as a source stream, supporting agricultural and domestic water use in downstream areas.
Ecosystem and Surrounding Environment
The Metori Springwater and downstream areas are inhabited by organisms favoring cold, clear water. The forest surrounding the springwater is covered by rich vegetation centered on deciduous broadleaf trees such as Japanese oak and Mongolian oak, serving as habitat for wild birds and small animals.
The clear stream is inhabited by aquatic insects and freshwater fish, forming a rich riparian ecosystem. This natural environment plays an important role in supporting the region’s biodiversity, making it a precious area from an environmental conservation perspective.
History and Legends of Metori Springwater
Ancient Use
Metori Springwater has been intimately connected with the lives of local people since ancient times. In this region where agriculture was the primary industry, Metori Springwater was utilized as important irrigation water. In this high-elevation area where water supply was historically unstable, Metori Springwater’s stable discharge volume was truly a lifeline.
From the Edo period through the Meiji period, Metori River water was used for irrigation of rice paddies and fields in downstream areas, supporting regional agricultural production. It was also used as domestic water, applied in drinking, laundry, vegetable washing, and all aspects of daily life, leaving a history of utilization.
Origin of the Name “Metori”
The unique name “Metori” has a legend transmitted from ancient times in the region. This legend has been passed down as a story involving a woman and a serpent.
According to one account, a beautiful young woman once lived in this area, and one day encountered a great serpent at the springwater’s edge. The serpent fell in love with the maiden and either led her into the water or she transformed into the incarnation of a serpent deity. The name “Metori” is said to have originated from such legends.
From a folklore perspective, such water deity worship and serpent legends are considered remnants of ancient faith that revered water sources and expressed gratitude for water’s blessings. The name Metori Springwater conveys more than a mere place name—it is a cultural heritage transmitting the reverence local people have held for water through the ages.
Contemporary Role as Water Supply Source
With the establishment of modern water supply systems during the Showa era, Metori Springwater was positioned as an important water supply source for Hokuto City’s Nagasaka District. Currently, Metori Springwater supplies a substantial portion of Nagasaka Town’s tap water, remaining an indispensable presence in local residents’ lives.
For this reason, the water source area is strictly managed and water quality preservation efforts continue. The water source area is surrounded by fencing with restricted entry to non-authorized personnel—a measure to protect this precious water resource.
Access to Metori Springwater and Tourist Information
Basic Information
Location
Nagasaka Town, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Elevation
Approximately 1,160 meters
Discharge Volume
Approximately 800 liters per second
Water Temperature
Approximately 10°C year-round
Designation
Top 100 Famous Waters (one of the Yatsugatake Southern Foothills Plateau Springwater Group)
Access Methods
By Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from Nagasaka IC on the Chuo Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Kobuchisawa IC on the Chuo Expressway
The most straightforward route is to exit at Nagasaka IC, drive north on the prefectural road, and follow directional signs. Limited parking spaces exist near the water source area, but tourist seasons may experience congestion, so visiting with extra time is recommended.
By Public Transportation
- Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from JR Chuo Main Line’s Nagasaka Station
- Approximately 40–50 minutes on foot from Nagasaka Station
When using public transportation, limited bus routes make taxi use convenient. Those with good walking stamina can access the site on foot from Nagasaka Station, which is popular as a walking course enjoying Yatsugatake’s southern foothills nature.
Precautions When Visiting
Several points require attention when visiting Metori Springwater.
Water Source Area Access Restrictions
The water source area itself is surrounded by fencing and strictly managed as a water supply source. Water collection without permission is generally prohibited. Entry into the water source area is also forbidden, so please view it from outside the fence.
Downstream Water Activities
In downstream areas, visitors can enjoy the springwater. Walking along the clear stream and touching the water are possible; however, environmental conservation requests that visitors carry away trash and avoid damaging nature.
Season and Clothing
The high elevation means cool temperatures even in summer, and spring and autumn feel chilly. Particularly around the water, temperatures drop significantly, so bringing a jacket is recommended. While the walking paths are maintained, visiting in comfortable walking shoes is advisable.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Combining Metori Springwater with nearby tourist spots creates a more fulfilling trip.
Sabuichi Springwater
Approximately 15 minutes by car away, another member of the Yatsugatake Southern Foothills Plateau Springwater Group. Features a water distribution facility associated with Takeda Shingen, with well-developed tourist facilities.
Ootaki Springwater
A springwater in the Kobuchisawa direction, developed as a park and popular with families.
Kiyosato Highland
A resort area approximately 20 minutes by car away with restaurants, shops, and art museums scattered throughout, convenient as a tourism base.
Suntory Hakushu Distillery
A distillery famous for whiskey production using Hakushu’s famous water. Guided tours are popular.
Hokuto City and the Village of Famous Waters
Japan’s Premier Water Village
Hokuto City is known as “Japan’s Premier Water Village.” The city contains three Top 100 Famous Waters sites (Yatsugatake Southern Foothills Plateau Springwater Group, Shirakawa River, and Hakushu/Shirakawa River sources), and including the “Kinpusan and Mizugaki Mountain sources” designated in the Heisei Era’s Top 100 Famous Waters, it possesses abundant water resources rarely seen nationwide.
This results from geographic conditions surrounded by high mountains—Yatsugatake, the Southern Japan Alps, and Kinpusan and Mizugaki Mountains—and a water circulation system nurtured by rich forests. Topography with significant elevation differences causes precipitation to permeate underground, filtering over long periods into clear groundwater emerging at various locations.
Industries and Culture Utilizing Famous Waters
Hokuto City has developed various industries leveraging this abundant famous water.
Agriculture
Rice cultivation and vegetable farming utilizing clear water flourish, particularly with highland vegetables known for high quality. Downstream from Metori Springwater, agriculture utilizing this clear water is also practiced.
Food Industry
Various foods are produced using the water, including tofu, soba noodles, sake, and whisky. Many enterprises, including Suntory’s Hakushu Distillery, have relocated to this area seeking its water.
Tourism Industry
Tourism routes visiting famous waters are established, with many tourists visiting. It receives attention as an ecotourism hub enjoying water and nature.
Water Resource Preservation Efforts
Hokuto City has established the “Hokuto City Famous Waters Preservation Liaison Council,” implementing preservation activities through public-private collaboration to pass precious water resources to the future.
Forest preservation, water source management, environmental education, and cleanup activities are undertaken across multiple sectors, with residents’ consciousness of water environment also heightening. Regarding Metori Springwater, in addition to strict management as a water supply source, continuous environmental preservation activities are implemented in surrounding areas.
Metori Springwater and Community Life
Role as Domestic Water
Metori Springwater currently functions as an important water supply source for Hokuto City’s Nagasaka District. Its stable discharge of 800 liters per second supports the daily lives of local residents.
Water supplied to households as tap water is clear water originating from Metori Springwater, boasting water quality suitable for direct consumption. For local residents, the environment where turning a faucet produces natural water nurtured by Yatsugatake represents an invaluable regional resource.
Use as Agricultural Water
Downstream from Metori River has historically utilized water for agriculture. This high-elevation region with large daily temperature fluctuations is suitable for highland vegetable cultivation, with vegetables grown using clear Metori Springwater known for their quality.
Various vegetables including lettuce, cabbage, and corn are cultivated and shipped nationwide, including to the Tokyo metropolitan area. The clear water of Metori Springwater constitutes an important element supporting the deliciousness of these agricultural products.
Community Culture and Water
Metori Springwater has become part of community culture and identity beyond mere water resource. Legends and traditions involving water are cultural heritage narrating regional history, transmitted across generations.
Additionally, consciousness regarding water source care leads to heightened environmental preservation awareness among residents, with active cleaning and nature protection activities. Metori Springwater also serves as a symbolic presence binding the community together.
Enjoying Metori Springwater
Walking Courses
The Metori Springwater area features established walking courses allowing enjoyment of nature. Walking along Metori River flowing downstream from the water source enables visitors to fully appreciate the clear stream’s beauty and surrounding rich nature.
Recommended Walking Route
- Duration: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Distance: Approximately 1–2 km
- Difficulty: Beginner level (enjoyable for families)
While walking paths are relatively maintained, natural settings warrant comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing. From spring through autumn, visitors can enjoy nature’s beauty with seasonal changes including fresh greenery and autumn foliage.
Photography Spots
The Metori Springwater area is popular as a photography location. Clear stream flows, surrounding forests, and seasonal flowers provide abundant subjects.
Particularly during morning light hours, water surfaces shimmer brilliantly, creating a fantastical atmosphere perfect for photography. During the autumn foliage season, the contrast between trees colored red and yellow and clear stream proves beautiful, attracting many photographers.
Four-Season Enjoyment
Spring (April–May)
Snowmelt season increases discharge volume, creating powerful water flow. Fresh greenery is beautiful, and bird songs are enjoyable.
Summer (June–August)
High elevation ensures cool temperatures even mid-summer, making it ideal as a summer retreat. Water temperature of approximately 10°C’s coldness allows escape from heat.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn foliage season colors surrounding forests red and yellow. The clear stream and autumn foliage contrast is spectacular, making it the highest-popularity season.
Winter (December–March)
Clear streams within snowy landscapes create mystical silence-wrapped atmosphere. Few visitors allow quiet nature enjoyment. However, attention to snow accumulation and ice is necessary.
Inquiries and Related Information
Tourist Inquiries
Hokuto City Tourism Association
Provides information on Hokuto City tourism generally, including Metori Springwater.
Yamanashi Prefecture Tourism Promotion Organization
Provides tourism information for Yamanashi Prefecture overall, including route guidance for famous water tours including Metori Springwater.
Water Supply and Water Source Inquiries
Hokuto City Water Bureau
For information regarding Metori Springwater as a water supply source and water quality inquiries.
Related Links
- Fuji no Kuni Yamanashi Tourism Net (Yamanashi Prefecture official tourism information)
- Hokuto City Official Website
- Ministry of the Environment “Top 100 Famous Waters” Official Page
- Yamanashi Historical Road Tourism
Summary
Metori Springwater is a precious water resource nurtured by the rich nature of Yatsugatake’s southern foothills and one of Japan’s most representative famous waters selected for the Top 100 Famous Waters. From its high-elevation location of 1,160 meters, approximately 800 liters per second of clear water emerges, serving as the Metori River source and supporting the region’s life and industry throughout history.
Historically utilized as irrigation water, it currently functions as an important water supply source for Hokuto City’s Nagasaka District, becoming an indispensable presence in local residents’ daily lives. The name “Metori,” derived from a legend involving a woman and a serpent, constitutes a cultural heritage transmitting reverence for water through the ages.
While the water source itself is strictly managed for water quality preservation, downstream areas allow visitors to enjoy the clear stream, offering walking and nature observation opportunities. Metori Springwater, where four-season natural beauty and clear water blessings can be experienced, represents one of Hokuto City’s major tourism destinations—the premier water village.
Visiting combined with nearby famous water sites such as Sabuichi Springwater and Ootaki Springwater enables deeper understanding of Yatsugatake’s southern foothills rich water culture. When visiting Yamanashi Prefecture, please visit Metori Springwater and experience the appeal of Japan’s famous waters.
