Homei Water (Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Access, Water Quality, Nearby Attractions
Homei Water (ほめいすい), located in the center of Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, is a historic spring water that has been cherished since the Meiji era by local residents and travelers passing through the Hokkoku Kaido. Selected as one of the 37 Waters of Shinshu, this famous water continues to be carefully preserved as a valuable water resource in Ueda City, visited by many people today.
This article comprehensively introduces information about Homei Water, including its historical background, water quality characteristics, specific access methods, nearby tourist attractions, and precautions for visiting.
What is Homei Water? | Historic Spring Water Prized by Ueda City
Overview and Origin of Homei Water
Homei Water is a public spring water spot located at 2-chome, Chuo, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture. Its name carries the meaning of “water that preserves life,” speaking to its importance as a vital water source that has supported people’s livelihoods since ancient times.
Since its establishment in Meiji 14 (1881), when clear water flowing from within the grounds of Kaizen Temple was channeled and installed, it has been used by local residents for over 140 years. Positioned along the Hokkoku Kaido (ほっこくかいどう), a major thoroughfare during the Edo period, it also functioned as a precious water source for travelers’ refreshment.
Selection as One of the 37 Waters of Shinshu
Homei Water was selected as one of the “37 Waters of Shinshu,” chosen by the Nagano Prefecture Pharmacists Association. This selection aims to widely introduce superior water sources within Nagano Prefecture and raise awareness of water environment conservation. Homei Water was evaluated for its historical value and good water quality.
The 37 Waters of Shinshu include representative waters such as the Genchi Well (Matsumoto City), Saruko no Izumi (Iida City), and the Azumino Wasabi Field Groundwater Group, and Homei Water is known as an iconic spring water representing the Toushin region of Nagano.
History of Homei Water | Community Memory Spanning the Meiji Era to Present
Background to Its Establishment During the Meiji Period
At the time of its establishment in Meiji 14, the town of Ueda prospered through sericulture and silk manufacturing, with many people passing through this commercial center. Securing clean and safe drinking water was an important public health issue of the time, and the establishment of Homei Water, utilizing the spring from Kaizen Temple, made a major contribution to the town’s development.
Kaizen Temple was deeply connected to the Ueda feudal lord Sanada clan, and the water flowing from its grounds was traditionally known as “sacred water.” The decision to channel this water to the center of town and set it up as a public well accessible to all was a groundbreaking initiative for the era.
Hokkoku Kaido and Water Source for Travelers
The Hokkoku Kaido was an important thoroughfare during the Edo period, branching from Oiwake Station (present-day Karuizawa Town) on the Nakasendo and extending through Zenko Temple to the Japan Sea coast. Ueda Station was one of its major post towns, with numerous travelers and merchants passing through.
Homei Water served as a precious rest point for people traveling this road, cherished as the “water that preserves life” that soothed travel weary visitors. Until the Showa era, local residents routinely drew water from this well for daily use.
The Role of Homei Water in Modern Times
While Homei Water’s role as a daily water source has diminished with the spread of tap water, it holds important significance today as a cultural property transmitting local history and as an emergency water source during disasters. Regular cleaning and maintenance activities by residents continue, along with ongoing efforts to pass this historic spring water on to future generations.
Water Quality Characteristics of Homei Water | Clear Soft Water Spring
Features of Water Quality
Homei Water is soft water, typical of Japanese spring waters. Soft water refers to water with low mineral content such as calcium and magnesium, characterized by a mellow and easy-to-drink taste.
Nagano’s geology contains abundant granite and volcanic rock, so groundwater passing through these rock layers is naturally filtered, resulting in clear and soft water. Homei Water possesses these characteristics and is favored by many people for its unpretentious flavor.
Water Temperature and Flow Rate
The temperature of spring water remains nearly constant year-round, feeling cold in summer and relatively warm in winter. This is because groundwater is not significantly affected by surface temperature fluctuations. Homei Water’s temperature is estimated to be approximately 12-15 degrees Celsius, maintaining a temperature range suitable for drinking.
The flow rate varies with seasons and rainfall, but having flowed continuously without ceasing for over 140 years indicates it is supported by a stable groundwater aquifer.
Precautions When Drinking
Since Homei Water is natural spring water, the following points require attention when consuming it:
- Confirming Water Quality Testing: While periodic testing is conducted, verify the information on posted notices and from municipal sources when visiting
- Boiling Recommended: As natural water, it is safest to boil before drinking
- Container Cleanliness: Use a clean container when drawing water and exercise care regarding hygiene
- Refraining from Large Quantities: As a shared community resource, draw only what is necessary
Nagano Prefecture promotes water resource conservation activities under the “Nagano Prefecture Abundant Water Resources Conservation Ordinance,” with Homei Water being an object of these efforts.
Access to Homei Water | Within Walking Distance of Ueda Station
Basic Information
- Location: 2-chome, Chuo, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture
- Access Restrictions: None (accessible 24 hours)
- Parking: No dedicated parking (use nearby coin parking)
- Fee: Free
Access by Train
Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from JR North Shinkansen/Shinano Railway “Ueda Station”
- Exit from Ueda Station’s Shiro-guchi (East Exit)
- Proceed straight along the station avenue toward Ueda Castle
- Pass through the Central Shopping Street toward the Chuo 2-chome area
- Follow signage in the Kaizen Temple area
Ueda Station is served by the North Shinkansen, accessible in approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from Tokyo and about 15 minutes from Nagano Station. The route from the station to Homei Water is flat, and it is recommended to walk while visiting Ueda Castle and other historic sites related to the Sanada clan.
Access by Car
Approximately 10 minutes from “Ueda Sugadaira IC” on the Joshin-etsu Expressway
- Exit at Ueda Sugadaira IC and head toward Ueda city center on National Route 144
- Follow signage toward Ueda Castle Ruins Park into the city area
- Head toward Kaizen Temple in the Chuo 2-chome area
While there is no dedicated parking, several coin parking facilities are available nearby. It is also possible to use the paid parking at Ueda Castle Ruins Park and walk from there.
Nearby Landmarks
Homei Water is located in Ueda’s central commercial district and is easier to find using Kaizen Temple as a landmark. It is approximately 5-10 minutes on foot from Ueda Castle Ruins Park and can be easily incorporated into a sightseeing route.
Recommended Tourist Attractions Around Homei Water
When visiting Homei Water, be sure to explore nearby attractions as well. Ueda City is known as a place with deep connections to the Sanada clan and is a town where history and culture thrive.
Ueda Castle Ruins Park (approximately 10-minute walk)
A park developed on the site of Ueda Castle, built by Sanada Masayuki, and a symbolic landmark of Ueda City. Featuring the massive stones called Sanada Ishi and the cherry blossoms famous around the main enclosure in spring, there are many points of interest. The Sanada Historical Museum allows visitors to learn in detail about the Sanada family’s history.
Hokkoku Kaido – Yanagi Town (approximately 5-minute walk)
A historic town district preserving the atmosphere of the Edo period. With rows of white-walled warehouses and latticed merchant houses, visitors can enjoy an atmosphere as if stepping back in time. Traditional craft shops and former residence cafes are scattered throughout, making it ideal for strolling.
Kaizen Temple (nearby)
A temple from whose grounds flows the spring water that is the source of Homei Water. Deeply connected to the Sanada clan, its quiet grounds provide a space for peace of mind. Definitely pay a visit when you come to see Homei Water.
Bessho Hot Spring (approximately 20 minutes by car)
An ancient hot spring called the “Kamakura of Shinshu,” featuring historic shrines and temples including the National Treasure Ankoku Temple with its octagonal three-tiered pagoda. With numerous day-use bathing facilities, combining a Homei Water tour with a hot spring visit is also recommended.
Sanada Clan Original Castle Ruins (approximately 30 minutes by car)
Mountain castle ruins in Sanada Town, the birthplace of the Sanada clan. Particularly recommended for those interested in Sanada history, with magnificent views from the mountain castle.
Other Famous Water Spots in the Toushin Region
In Nagano’s Toushin region, there are various spring waters and famous water spots worth visiting besides Homei Water.
Ippai Shimizu (Sanada Town, Ueda City)
A spring water with a legend of being permitted only one cup of drinking. Located in a place with connections to the Sanada clan, it is known as a famous water evoking historical romance.
Taiman’s Well (Ueda City)
A historic well in Ueda’s city center, formerly used by the restaurant “Taiman.” Quality water continues to flow, used by local residents.
Gozen Water (Karuizawa Town, Kitasaku District)
Famous water in Karuizawa’s villa district, once said to have been used for imperial court meals. Easy to visit when touring Karuizawa.
Goka Gensuiki (Koumi Town, Minamisaku District)
Clear water flowing from the Yatsugatake mountain foothills, still used as daily water by local residents. A spot where one can enjoy spring water in a nature-rich environment.
Water Environment Conservation Activities in Nagano Prefecture
Nagano Prefecture is blessed with abundant water resources, and various conservation efforts are underway.
Nagano Prefecture Abundant Water Resources Conservation Ordinance
Enacted in Heisei 25, this ordinance aims to monitor land transactions in water source areas and promote appropriate use of groundwater. Homei Water, such a historic spring water, is advancing conservation activities under this ordinance’s philosophy.
Designation of Water Source Preservation Districts
Based on the “Nagano Prefecture Water Environment Conservation Ordinance,” Nagano designates important water source districts for preservation. This restricts development activities around water sources, maintaining clean water quality.
Conservation Activities by Local Residents
At various spring waters including Homei Water, regular cleaning activities and water quality monitoring are conducted by residents and volunteer organizations. These daily activities form the foundation for passing historic water resources to future generations.
Etiquette and Precautions When Visiting Homei Water
When visiting Homei Water, please observe the following etiquette and precautions to use this valuable water resource carefully.
Basic Etiquette
- Maintain Cleanliness: Be careful not to contaminate the water area, and always take trash with you
- Respect Order: If other users are present, respect the order of use
- Do Not Monopolize: Avoid prolonged occupation or large-scale collection, maintaining a spirit of sharing
- Be Quiet: Since the location is near residential areas, use it quietly
Precautions When Drawing Water
- Use a clean container
- Do not immerse the container directly in the water source (use a ladle)
- Draw only what is necessary
- Refrain from use if you notice any abnormality in water quality
Safety Precautions
- Be careful as the ground may be wet and slippery
- If accompanied by small children, do not take your eyes off them
- During winter, be especially careful as freezing is possible
About Photography
Photography of Homei Water and its surroundings is permitted, but since the location is near residential areas, practice photography with consideration for residents’ privacy. Also be mindful not to inconvenience other users.
Shinshu Famous Water Tours and Homei Water
Nagano Prefecture has numerous famous waters, including the “37 Waters of Shinshu,” as well as those selected for “100 Famous Waters” and “Heisei’s 100 Famous Waters.” Consider planning a Shinshu famous water tour beginning with Homei Water.
Famous Waters of the Chusin Region
- Genchi Well (Matsumoto City): Famous water representative of Matsumoto castle town
- Azumino Wasabi Field Groundwater Group (Azumino City): Abundant groundwater nourishing wasabi fields
- Matsumoto Castle Town Groundwater Group (Matsumoto City): Multiple wells scattered throughout the castle town
Famous Waters of the Nanshin Region
- Saruko no Izumi (Iida City): Historic famous water flowing at the foot of Mount Kazakoshi
- Daishimizu (Kiso District): Clear spring water along the Kiso Road
Famous Waters of the Hokushin Region
- Ryukoji Spring Water (Nagano City): Historic spring around Zenko Temple
- Shiraito Falls (Karuizawa Town): Famous water popular as a tourist attraction
Touring various famous waters allows one to experience Nagano’s diverse geology and climate, as well as the history of water’s relationship with people.
Homei Water and Water Resources During Disasters
In recent years, with frequent natural disasters such as earthquakes and heavy rains, natural water sources like springs and wells have been reevaluated as precious water resources during disasters.
The Role of Spring Waters During Disasters
When tap water is cut off, spring water like Homei Water plays a crucial role as an alternative water source. Ueda City is advancing efforts to organize information about spring water and well locations as disaster water sources and inform citizens.
The Importance of Daily Confirmation
To use spring water during disasters, it is important to regularly confirm the location, understand access methods, and grasp water quality conditions. Visiting Homei Water serves not only as tourism or leisure but also as an opportunity to heighten disaster preparedness awareness.
The Concept of Rotating Stockpiles
Some regions have begun initiatives for “rotating stockpiles” using spring water. This approach involves routinely using spring water while maintaining a system for disaster-time use as well. Homei Water has potential to play a role in such regional disaster prevention.
Conclusion | Experiencing Shinshu’s Water Culture at Homei Water
Homei Water in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, is a historic spring that has been loved by local residents for over 140 years since its establishment in Meiji 14. True to its name, “water that preserves life,” it once served a vital role in daily life as an essential water source, and as a water spot quenching the thirst of travelers along the Hokkoku Kaido.
In modern times, while daily use has decreased with the spread of tap water, its value remains undiminished as a cultural property transmitting local history and as an emergency water source during disasters. Selected as one of the 37 Waters of Shinshu, its water quality is a blessing of soft water nurtured by Nagano’s abundant natural environment, cherished by many people.
Visiting together with nearby attractions like Ueda Castle and the Hokkoku Kaido townscape allows one to simultaneously experience the history connected to the Sanada clan and Shinshu’s water culture. When visiting Ueda, be sure to stop at this historic spring water and touch the clear water that has flowed unchanged for over 140 years.
Through conservation activities by local residents and water resource conservation efforts based on Nagano’s ordinances, Homei Water will be passed on to future generations. We who visit can also participate in the succession of Shinshu’s water culture by observing etiquette and carefully using this precious water resource.
