Konkon Shimizu (Fukushima Prefecture)

Konkon Shimizu (Fukushima Prefecture) Complete Guide: The Charm of Famous Water at the Foot of Bandai Mountain and Access Methods

“Konkon Shimizu” located in Bandai Town, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture, is a particularly notable spring water spot among the springs that dot the western foot of Bandai Mountain. This article comprehensively introduces the characteristics of Konkon Shimizu, its history, access methods, and information about surrounding springs—everything needed for a visit.

What is Konkon Shimizu?

Konkon Shimizu is one of the clear waters that spring forth at the western foot of Bandai Mountain in Bandai Town, Fukushima Prefecture, and constitutes an important water source within the Bandai Western Foothills Spring Water Group. The name “Konkon” derives from an onomatopoeia expressing the manner in which water flows continuously without ceasing, and true to its name, it boasts abundant water volume throughout the year.

Overview of the Bandai Western Foothills Spring Water Group

Bandai Town is located at an elevation of approximately 500 meters and is a region surrounded by mountains including Bandai Mountain, Nekoma-ga-Take, Umaya Mountain, and Kojō-ga-Mine. Groundwater flowing from these mountains appears as spring water at various locations throughout the town. The following are known as major springs:

• Ryūga-Sawa Spring Water: Bandai Town’s representative spring, flowing forth from between massive stones
• Daikaramizu (Great Clear Water): A spring with abundant water volume
• Hōshōjiri Shimizu: A spring with historical background
• Sarugaku-Numa Shimizu: A spring blessed with a natural environment
• Konkon Shimizu: Spring water that flows forth ceaselessly

These springs pass through geological layers formed by volcanic activity in the Nekoma Mountain system, undergoing natural filtration processes to become clear and delicious water flowing forth.

Water Quality and Characteristics of Konkon Shimizu

Water Quality Characteristics

The spring waters of the Bandai Western Foothills, including Konkon Shimizu, acquire a unique mineral balance by passing through volcanic geological layers. General characteristics include:

• Water Temperature: Stable at approximately 10-12 degrees Celsius year-round
• Transparency: Extremely high, allowing visibility to the bottom
• Hardness: Classified as soft water with a smooth, mellow taste
• pH Value: Weakly alkaline to neutral range

History as a Unfailing Water Source

The spring water group at the Bandai Western Foothills, particularly major springs like Ryūga-Sawa Spring Water, have been handed down since ancient times with the saying that they “never run dry even during severe droughts.” Records from the Edo Period document that a large rain-seeking ritual was performed at Ryūga-Sawa Spring Water under orders of the Aizu Clan.

This stable water volume results from rain and snowmelt that fall in the mountain highlands passing through volcanic rock layers underground over extended periods, serving as a natural reservoir-like role in aquifer layers. Konkon Shimizu benefits from this blessing, maintaining abundant water volume regardless of season.

Access Methods to Konkon Shimizu

Location Information

Address: Bandai Town, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture

Bandai Town is located in the central part of Fukushima Prefecture in the Aizu region, spreading across a highland area north of Lake Inawashiro.

Car Access

Main Routes:

1. From the Tokyo Area

• Utilize the Tōhoku Expressway, transfer to the Banétsu Expressway at Kōriyama JCT
• Exit at Bandai-Katō IC or Inawashiro-Bandai-Kōgen IC
• Travel time: Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes

1. From the Sendai Area

• Travel south on the Tōhoku Expressway, transfer to the Banétsu Expressway at Kōriyama JCT
• Travel time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

1. From the Niigata Area

• Travel east on the Banétsu Expressway, exit at Aizu-Wakamatsu IC or Bandai-Katō IC
• Travel time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Notes:

• Spring water spots within Bandai Town are scattered in mountainous areas, so using a car navigation system is recommended
• During winter (December to March), there is a possibility of snow accumulation and icy road conditions, making winter tires mandatory
• The roads around spring water areas may be narrow, so careful driving is necessary

Public Transportation Access

Train Travel:

1. Get off at “Bandai-machi Station” on the JR Banétsu Western Line
2. From the station, use a local bus or taxi

Bus Travel:

• There are bus routes that circulate within Bandai Town
• However, the number of buses is limited, so checking the schedule in advance is necessary
• We recommend confirming the latest traffic information with Bandai Town Hall (TEL: 0242-74-1211)

Taxi Travel:

• Using a taxi from Bandai-machi Station, travel time is approximately 10-20 minutes depending on the destination
• Advance reservations are advised

Parking Information

The major spring water spots in Bandai Town generally have the following parking:

• Usage Fee: In most cases, free to use
• Parking Capacity: Varies by spring water location, but generally 5-20 spaces
• Large Vehicles: For parking of tourist buses and similar vehicles, advance confirmation with the Bandai Town Tourist Association is necessary

Precautions and Etiquette for Use

Regarding Water Use

Spring waters in Bandai Town, including Konkon Shimizu, are generally free to use, but the following points require attention:

Regarding Drinking:

• Famous waters selected by the Ministry of the Environment do not necessarily guarantee suitability for drinking
• Water quality may vary depending on natural conditions
• If drinking, we strongly recommend boiling before consumption
• Particularly after rainfall or during snowmelt periods, water quality may change
• If concerned, it is safer to take water home and boil it at home

Water Collection Etiquette:

• Use clean containers and be careful not to pollute the water source
• When collecting large amounts, be considerate of other users’ convenience
• Avoid large-scale collection for commercial purposes
• Pre-wash containers such as plastic bottles before use

Consideration for Environmental Conservation

Trash Removal:

• Trash boxes are often not installed around spring water areas
• Always take trash with you
• Never discard cigarette butts or similar items

Natural Environment Protection:

• Avoid collecting plants or feeding animals
• Avoid entering areas outside designated zones
• Washing clothes or vehicles around water sources is strictly prohibited
• Use of soap, shampoo, and similar products is prohibited as it leads to water quality contamination

Noise Consideration:

• Spring water areas are quiet natural environments
• Keep loud conversations and music playing to a minimum
• Be considerate of other visitors

Major Spring Water Spots in the Surrounding Area

When visiting Bandai Town, you can explore many spring water spots besides Konkon Shimizu.

Ryūga-Sawa Spring Water

One of Bandai Town’s most representative and famous spring water spots.

Characteristics:

• Impressive scenery with abundant water flowing from between massive rocks
• Terrain formed by volcanic activity in the Nekoma Mountain system
• A historically significant site where rain-seeking rituals were performed during the Edo Period
• Surrounded by forest with a mystical atmosphere

Access:

• Approximately 15 minutes by car from central Bandai Town
• Parking available

Daikaramizu (Great Clear Water)

A spring with abundant water volume, beloved by local residents.

Characteristics:

• Stable water volume year-round
• Relatively easy access
• Well-maintained environment suitable for water collection

Hōshōjiri Shimizu

A spring water site with historical background deeply connected to regional culture.

Characteristics:

• Has a long history known since the Heian Period
• Has been utilized as local drinking water
• Historical sites are scattered in the surrounding area

Sarugaku-Numa Shimizu

A spring water site blessed with a natural environment, suitable for walking tours.

Characteristics:

• Scenery where a marsh and spring water form an integrated landscape
• Environment suitable for birdwatching
• Natural beauty can be enjoyed across all seasons

Other Famous Waters in the Aizu Region

Fukushima Prefecture’s Aizu region has many famous water spots besides Bandai Town.

Kowa-Shimizu Spring Water

Location: Inawashiro Town, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture

A famous spring water mentioned in “Aizu Bandai-san,” a representative folk song of Aizu, as an “Aizu famous water.”

Characteristics:

• Selected as one of Fukushima’s 30 Famous Waters
• Prospered historically as an important rest stop on the old Nihonmatsu Kaido
• A popular spot visited by many people today
• An environment retaining old-fashioned charm

Access:

• Approximately 10 minutes by car from Inawashiro-Bandai-Kōgen IC on the Banétsu Expressway
• Parking available
• Accessible by public transportation as well

Onogawa Spring Water

Location: Kitashiobara Village, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture

A spring selected as one of Japan’s “100 Famous Waters” by the Environment Agency (now Ministry of the Environment) in 1985.

Characteristics:

• Originates from Daisosshizawa Mountain at an elevation of 1,425 meters
• Merges with Fudomisawa originating from Nishi-Ōmine at an elevation of 1,982 meters
• Forms Onogawa Fudō Falls with a drop of approximately 20 meters
• A prestigious spring selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waters

Water Quality:

• Clear water that has passed through geological layers of the Azuma volcanic system
• Cold and transparent water quality
• Surrounding natural environment is also excellent

Access:

• Approximately 30 minutes by car from Inawashiro-Bandai-Kōgen IC on the Banétsu Expressway
• Close to Onogawa Onsen

Tatsusawa Fudō Water Purification Area

Location: Dainaka-tatsusawa, Inawashiro Town, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture

Characteristics:

• Located near Tatsusawa Fudō Falls
• Found along the route from Nakanoshira Onsen to Tatsusawa Fudō Falls
• Allows for enjoying both the falls and spring water simultaneously
• An atmosphere of spiritual efficacy

The Charm of Bandai Town Tourism and Famous Waters

Bandai Town as a “Town of Famous Waters”

Bandai Town promotes regional development as a “town of famous waters,” with spring water spots scattered throughout the town. These springs possess multifaceted value beyond being merely water sources:

Cultural Value:

• Closely connected to regional life since ancient times
• Served as the setting for folk rituals such as rain-seeking ceremonies
• Forms the core of regional identity

Value as a Tourist Resource:

• Attracts tourists from urban areas
• Destination for water-collection tourism
• A place for nature experience and environmental education

Environmental Conservation Value:

• Water sources supporting a rich ecosystem
• Important component of the region’s water circulation system
• An indicator for measuring the effects of climate change

Enjoying All Four Seasons

Spring (March-May):

• The season when water volume becomes most abundant due to snowmelt
• Beautiful contrast between fresh greenery and spring water
• Walking tours combined with mountain vegetable picking are popular

Summer (June-August):

• Cool spring water provides refreshment
• An opportunity to fully enjoy Bandai Town as a summer retreat
• Forest bathing around spring water areas is comfortable

Autumn (September-November):

• The combination of autumn foliage and spring water creates scenic beauty
• The water’s deliciousness stands out in the crisp air
• Local agricultural products can be enjoyed during harvest season

Winter (December-February):

• Spring water in snowy landscapes appears fantastical
• The mysterious sight of unfrozen spring water
• An atmosphere of quiet unique to winter

Regional Initiatives Utilizing Spring Water

Agricultural Use

The spring waters of Bandai Town contribute significantly to the region’s agriculture:

• Rice Cultivation: Rice grown with clear spring water is highly reputed for quality
• Vegetable Cultivation: High-altitude vegetables leveraging the cool climate and abundant water
• Fruit Tree Cultivation: Utilized for apple and other fruit tree cultivation

Use in Regional Industries

Sake Brewing:

• Spring water is used in sake production in the Aizu region
• Delicate and refined taste leveraging soft water characteristics

Food Processing:

• Spring water is utilized in the manufacture of tofu, noodles, and other products
• Spring water quality directly affects product quality

Tourism Industry:

• Development of experience programs leveraging spring water
• Provision of dishes using famous water
• Maintenance of water collection areas and tourist information

Pre-Visit Checklist of Items to Bring

A list of items convenient to bring when visiting Konkon Shimizu or spring water spots in Bandai Town:

Essential Items:

• Clean water collection container (plastic bottles, polyurethane cans, etc.)
• Trash bag (for carrying away waste)
• Towel (for drying wet hands)
• Map or smartphone (with GPS function)

Recommended Items:

• Boots or waterproof shoes (areas around water are slippery)
• Hat (for sun protection in summer, warmth in winter)
• Insect repellent spray (for visits in spring, summer, and autumn)
• Camera (for recording beautiful scenery)
• Leisure sheet (for rest)
• Light snacks and drinks (few shops in the area)

Seasonal Items:

*Spring and Summer:*

• Sunscreen
• Light jacket (spring water areas are cool)
• Water bottle (for carrying collected spring water)

*Autumn and Winter:*

• Winter clothing (essential in winter)
• Gloves
• Shoes with non-slip soles (for icy conditions)
• Flashlight (due to early sunset)

Recommended Tour Plans Combining Nearby Tourist Spots

Lake Inawashiro

Distance: Approximately 20 minutes by car from Bandai Town

Japan’s fourth-largest lake, also known as the “Mirror Lake of Heaven.”

Ways to Enjoy:

• Picnicking along the lake shore
• Water sports (in summer)
• Arrival of migratory swans (in winter)
• Cycling

Bandai Mountain

Elevation: 1,816 meters

A symbolic mountain of Aizu, where hiking and mountain climbing can be enjoyed.

Climbing Courses:

• Multiple courses available from beginner to advanced levels
• Travel time: 3-6 hours (varies by course)
• Views from the summit are spectacular

Goshiki-Numa (Five-Colored Ponds)

Location: Kitashiobara Village, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture
Distance: Approximately 30 minutes by car from Bandai Town

A mysterious group of ponds formed by the eruption of Bandai Mountain.

Characteristics:

• Each pond displays a different color
• Walking paths are well-maintained, ideal for strolling
• Time required: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours
• Beautiful in all seasons

Aizu-Wakamatsu City

Distance: Approximately 40 minutes by car from Bandai Town

A city of history and culture, Aizu-Wakamatsu is also worth visiting.

Major Tourist Spots:

• Tsuruga Castle (Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle)
• Iimori Mountain and the Byakkotai Memorial Hall
• Nanoka-machi Street (retro streetscape)
• Aizu Samurai Residence

Recommended Sightseeing Plans

One-Day Course:

Morning:

• 9:00 Arrival in Bandai Town, tour spring water spots including Konkon Shimizu
• 11:00 Visit Ryūga-Sawa Spring Water

Afternoon:

• 12:00 Lunch in Bandai Town (using local ingredients)
• 13:30 Stroll through Goshiki-Numa
• 15:30 Tea time at Lake Inawashiro shores
• 17:00 Begin return journey

Two-Day Course:

Day 1:

• Morning: Tour spring water spots in Bandai Town
• Afternoon: Goshiki-Numa stroll, Ura-Bandai area tourism
• Accommodation: A hot spring inn in Bandai Town or Ura-Bandai

Day 2:

• Morning: Bandai Mountain climbing or hiking
• Afternoon: Tourism in Aizu-Wakamatsu City
• Evening: Begin return journey

Regional Food Culture and Spring Water

Local Dishes Using Spring Water

The Aizu region has developed various local dishes leveraging abundant spring water.

Kozuyu:

• A representative local dish of Aizu
• The secret to its deliciousness lies in scallop-based broth and clear water
• A traditional dish served at celebratory occasions

Soba:

• Hand-made soba using Aizu soba flour and spring water
• The cool climate and abundant water are ideal for soba cultivation
• Soba shops are scattered throughout the region

Tofu Dishes:

• Tofu made with spring water is excellent
• Chilled tofu, hot pot tofu, and deep-fried tofu served with sauce
• Soft water characteristics highlight the taste of soybeans

Local Agricultural Products

Aizu Rice:

• High-quality rice grown using spring water-based rice cultivation
• Varieties include Koshihikari and Hitomebore
• Features fluffy texture and sweetness

High-Altitude Vegetables:

• Tomatoes, cucumbers, asparagus, and others
• Grown with the cool climate and abundant water
• Shipped to urban areas as well

Fruit:

• Apples, peaches, pears, and others
• The daily temperature difference raises sugar content
• Purchasing at farm stands is recommended

Spring Water Conservation Efforts

Government Initiatives

Bandai Town undertakes various conservation activities to protect this precious spring water resource:

Water Quality Monitoring:

• Regular water quality inspections
• Early detection of environmental changes
• Data accumulation and analysis

Environmental Improvements:

• Regular cleaning of areas around spring water sites
• Installation and updates of signage
• Facility maintenance including parking areas and restrooms

Regulations and Management:

• Development restrictions in water source areas
• Forest conservation activities
• Surveillance of illegal dumping

Resident-Participated Conservation Activities

Cleaning Volunteers:

• Regular cleaning activities around spring water areas
• Cooperation of local residents and tourists
• Raising environmental awareness

Tree-Planting Activities:

• Protection and cultivation of water source forests
• Environmental stewardship for future generations
• Ecosystem conservation

Awareness Activities:

• Environmental education in elementary and middle schools
• Activities communicating the value of spring water
• Promotion of ecotourism

What Visitors Can Do

Conservation activities that each of us visiting spring water sites can undertake:

1. Take trash with you: A commonplace but most important action
2. Do not pollute water sources: Avoid use of detergents and chemicals
3. Protect vegetation: Refrain from entering areas outside designated zones
4. Enjoy quietly: Consideration for wildlife
5. Share information: Appropriately communicate the excellence of spring water
6. Purchase local products: Supporting the local economy contributes to conservation activities

Contact Information and Related Resources

Bandai Town Related

Bandai Town Hall

• Address: 1855 Nakano-hashi, Bandai, Yama District, Fukushima Prefecture
• Phone: 0242-74-1211
• Hours: Weekdays 8:30-17:15
• Website: Check Bandai Town’s official website for the latest information

Bandai Town Tourist Association

• Detailed tourism information provision
• Pamphlet distribution
• Event information guidance

Transportation Related

JR East Customer Center

• Phone: 050-2016-1600
• Hours: 6:00-24:00 (Open year-round)

Bandai Town Taxi Companies

• Advance reservations are recommended
• Bandai Town Hall can provide information

Accommodation Information

Various types of accommodations are available in Bandai Town and surrounding areas:

Hot Spring Inns:

• Hot spring locations in and around Bandai Town
• Some facilities offer dishes using spring water

Pensions and Family-Operated Inns:

• Homey atmosphere
• Reasonable pricing
• Home-style cooking

Hotels:

• Numerous around Lake Inawashiro
• Well-equipped facilities
• Business use accommodations available

Campgrounds:

• Camping experience in nature
• Mainly open during summer
• Some facilities allow use of spring water

Summary

Konkon Shimizu is a precious natural resource boasting Bandai Town and represents one of the springs in the Bandai Western Foothills Spring Water Group, deeply connected with the region’s culture and life. Maintaining abundant water volume year-round, it continuously provides clear and delicious water.

When visiting, confirm access methods and usage precautions, and do not forget environmental conservation considerations while enjoying this wonderful natural blessing. Furthermore, surrounding areas include many other spring water spots such as Ryūga-Sawa Spring Water, Daikaramizu, and Hōshōjiri Shimizu, each with its own unique charm.

Visiting the springs of Bandai Town is not merely water collection but becomes a valuable experience touching the region’s rich natural environment, history and culture, and the lives of local people. While listening to the sound of clear water flowing forth, refresh yourself both mentally and physically amidst the beautiful scenery of all seasons.

A journey visiting the famous waters of Fukushima’s Aizu region offers an opportunity to escape urban bustle and give thanks for nature’s blessings. By all means, visit Konkon Shimizu and the spring water spots of Bandai Town and experience their charm firsthand.