Unjō Water (Fukui Prefecture Obama City) Complete Guide | The Charm of Spring Water Selected as One of the Heisei Era’s Top 100 Waters and Access Information
“Unjō Water (うんじょうすい)” located within Unjō Park in Obama City, Fukui Prefecture, is a self-flowing well that has been cherished by local residents for many years. This famous water, selected as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s “Heisei Era’s Top 100 Waters,” has the mysterious characteristic of abundant fresh water springing forth despite being located on the Japan Sea coast.
This article provides comprehensive information you should know before visiting, from the history and characteristics of Unjō Water, water quality, recommended nearby spots, to access methods.
What is Unjō Water? Overview of the Famous Water that Obama City Takes Pride In
Unjō Water is groundwater that springs forth in Unjō Park beside the boat moorage in Ichiban-chō, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture. It naturally springs from a sandy and gravel layer 30 meters underground, and throughout the year, abundant cold and clear water at approximately 13°C flows forth.
Named after “Unpinjo Castle (うんぴんじょう),” another name for Obama Castle, this spring water has been used as domestic water by local people and as an indispensable water source for producing regional specialties such as Japanese confections, tofu, soba, and sake.
Selected as One of the Heisei Era’s Top 100 Waters
It was selected as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s “Heisei Era’s Top 100 Waters” in 2008 (Heisei 20), becoming a famous water spot known nationwide. The phenomenon of high-quality fresh water without salt content springing forth right beside the sea is also of geological interest.
History and Origin of Unjō Water
Circumstances of Its Birth
The water site of Unjō Water was developed in 1949 (Showa 24). Local elementary school alumni pooled funds to drill a well at this location. Named after the elementary school at the time, “Unjō Water” has been cherished by the local community for over 70 years since.
Relationship with Water Source Forests
The water source of Unjō Water is said to be the Kamineigori Water Source Forest, which is selected as one of the “Water Source Forests Hundred Selections.” Rainwater that falls on this forest seeps into the ground and is filtered through the geological layers over approximately 100 years before springing forth in the underground of Ichiban-chō in Obama City.
This natural filtration process spanning a long time creates the mellow and delicious taste of Unjō Water.
Water Quality and Characteristics of Unjō Water
Water Temperature and Water Quality
The greatest characteristic of Unjō Water is its stable water temperature and excellent water quality.
- Water Temperature: Approximately 13°C throughout the year (nearly constant in both summer and winter)
- Water Quality: Soft water with a smooth mouthfeel
- Spring Water Volume: Abundant self-flowing volume
- Purity Level: Deep groundwater with few impurities
Water springing forth through the sandy and gravel layer 30 meters underground maintains high purity by passing through nature’s filter. This cold and clear water possesses quality suitable not only as drinking water but also for food processing.
Ichiban-chō Blessed with Groundwater
Ichiban-chō in Obama City, where Unjō Water is located, is an area blessed with groundwater to the extent that each house has a drilled well. Due to the geological structure unique to this area, an environment where abundant fresh water can be obtained despite being near the coast has formed, which is rare nationwide.
Obama’s Specialty Products Made with Unjō Water
Unjō Water is utilized not only as drinking water but also in the production of various specialty products of Obama City.
Kuzu Manju
A representative specialty made with Unjō Water is “kuzu manju” (kudzu dumplings). At Iseya, a confectionery shop in Obama City, kuzu manju is manufactured using “Kumagawa Kudzu,” one of Japan’s three major kudzu varieties, and Unjō Water.
In the shop, freshly made kuzu manju are constantly cooled in the flowing water of Unjō Water, and are characterized by their plump, cool appearance and transparency as if wrapped by water itself. They have become a popular summer specialty among both local residents and tourists.
Other Specialty Products
- Tofu: Tofu made with Unjō Water has a mellow taste that brings out the natural sweetness of soybeans
- Soba: The quality of the water makes the flavor of soba stand out
- Japanese Sake: Unjō Water is also utilized by local sake breweries
These specialty products benefit from Unjō Water’s soft water characteristics, which bring out the flavor of ingredients and contribute to producing more delicious products.
Usage Methods and Precautions for Unjō Water
Water Drawing
Unjō Water can be used by anyone free of charge. Not only local residents but also people from distant areas come to draw water, and sometimes waiting times of 10-15 minutes may occur.
Precautions when drawing water:
- You must bring your own containers
- Please practice courtesy and share the space during crowded times
- Care must be taken not to pollute the surrounding environment
- When drawing large quantities, please be considerate of other users
Available Hours
Unjō Water is basically available 24 hours a day, but nighttime use is recommended to be restrained out of consideration for nearby residents. Use during daylight hours is recommended for safety reasons as well.
About Unjō Park
Unjō Park, where Unjō Water is located, is a small park positioned beside the boat moorage in Ichiban-chō, Obama City. It is known as a mysterious place where abundant groundwater springs forth despite its coastal location.
The park interior is well-maintained, and there are spaces for rest around the water drawing area. You can spend time unique to this place, enjoying famous water while gazing at the sea.
Basic Information (Operating Hours, Access, etc.)
Facility Information
- Name: Unjō Water (うんじょうすい)
- Address: Ichiban-chō, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture (within Unjō Park)
- Admission: Free
- Hours: 24 hours (use during daylight hours is recommended)
- Closed: None
- Parking: Available (parking spaces near the park)
Access Methods
By Train:
Approximately 15 minutes on foot from “Obama Station” on the JR Obama Line, or about 5 minutes by taxi. From Obama Station to Unjō Park, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the castle town.
By Car:
- Approximately 10 minutes by car from “Obama IC” on the Maizuru Wakasa Expressway
- Use Route 27 National Highway toward Obama City center
- Search navigation for “Unjō Park” or “Ichiban-chō, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture”
Parking Information:
There are parking spaces near the park, but the number is limited. During crowded times, consider using nearby paid parking lots.
Recommended Spots and Restaurants Around “Unjō Water”
When visiting Unjō Water, you can also enjoy nearby tourist spots and dining.
Iseya Confectionery Shop
A Japanese confectionery shop where you can taste the famous “kuzu manju” cooled in Unjō Water. The transparent kuzu manju fresh from the shop is a must-eat specialty when visiting Obama. It is recommended to visit together with water drawing since it is located right near Unjō Water.
Obama Castle Site
The site of Obama Castle (Unpinjo Castle), after which Unjō Water is named. Now developed as a castle site park, it is attractive for its panoramic views overlooking Obama Bay. It is within walking distance from Unjō Water.
Wakasa Obama Tourism Information Center
A tourism information center located inside Obama Station. It has tourism information about Obama City, brochures, and suggestions for model courses—information helpful for planning your trip. Staff can also explain how to get to Unjō Water in detail.
Obama Seafood Gourmet
Obama City has a history of offering food products to the imperial court as the “Mitsukuni (imperial food province),” making it a treasure trove of food.
- Ikesuwarikappo Miyabi: A traditional multi-course restaurant where you can savor fresh seafood from Wakasa Bay
- Restaurants around Obama Fishing Port: Set meals using fish and shellfish landed locally are popular
After visiting Unjō Water, it is recommended to enjoy Obama’s abundant seafood delicacies.
Hotel and Accommodation Information Around “Unjō Water”
There are various types of accommodation facilities within Obama City.
Hotel Uminpia
A hotel facing Obama Bay where you can enjoy views of the beautiful Wakasa Bay from ocean-view guest rooms. It is relatively close to Unjō Water and is conveniently located as a base for Obama tourism.
Yūga and Shun-sai no Yado Sekumiya
An inn famous for dishes using fresh seafood from Wakasa Bay. You can enjoy kaiseki-style multi-course meals featuring seasonal ingredients. Recommended for those who wish to fully experience Obama’s food culture.
Minshuku and Guest Houses
There are many reasonably priced minshuku (family-run inns) and guest houses throughout Obama City. They are suitable for those who wish to enjoy interaction with local people or for those considering longer stays.
Attractions and Recommended Tourist Model Course in Obama City
About Obama City
Obama City is located in the Wakasa region of Fukui Prefecture and is a historic town that has offered marine products to the imperial court as the “Imperial Food Province” since ancient times. Facing Wakasa Bay, it is blessed with beautiful coastlines and abundant nature.
In recent years, it has become internationally known as “Obama City” due to sharing the same name as former US President Barack Obama.
Recommended Model Course
Obama One-Day Sightseeing Course:
- Morning: Arrive at JR Obama Station → Gather information at Wakasa Obama Tourism Information Center
- Late Morning: Draw water from Unjō Water → Taste kuzu manju at Iseya Confectionery Shop
- Lunch: Seafood lunch around Obama Fishing Port
- Afternoon: Stroll through Obama Castle Site → Visit temples and shrines in Obama City (Meitsūji, Jingūji, etc.)
- Late Afternoon: Shopping at Wakasa Fishermen’s Wharf
With this course, you can fully enjoy the charms of Obama centered around Unjō Water in one day.
Seasonal Ways to Enjoy Visiting Unjō Water
Spring (March–May)
Spring in Obama is when cherry blossoms bloom abundantly, and the charm of the castle town stands out even more. The cold water of Unjō Water feels pleasant during this season. Water drawing amidst fresh green foliage will be an invigorating experience.
Summer (June–August)
Summer is when Unjō Water truly shines. The 13°C cold water tastes especially delicious on hot days. The seasonal specialty “kuzu manju” during this period can be enjoyed in its best state, cooled in Unjō Water. It is also recommended to visit together with swimming at the beach.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn in Obama is the season when seafood is most delicious. Fish and shellfish caught in Wakasa Bay reach their peak season, making it the best time to enjoy gourmet food. The autumn leaves are also beautiful, and water drawing while strolling is enjoyable.
Winter (December–February)
The winter Japan Sea can be rough and snow may fall, but Unjō Water maintains a consistent 13°C water temperature. Even during cold winter months, you can experience the warmth of groundwater (it feels warmer than the outside air in winter).
Environmental Conservation Efforts
The importance of conservation of Unjō Water has been recognized through its selection as one of the “Heisei Era’s Top 100 Waters.”
Community Initiatives
- Conservation activities for Kamineigori Water Source Forest, the water source forest
- Water quality monitoring of groundwater
- Awareness activities regarding user etiquette
- Environmental beautification activities in surrounding areas
Local residents and the administration cooperate in efforts to pass on this precious water resource to future generations.
What Visitors Can Do
Those of us who visit Unjō Water are also required to show the following consideration:
- Always take trash with you
- Do not pollute the water drawing area
- Do not waste more water than necessary
- Remember consideration for other users
- Follow community rules
Conclusion: Unjō Water is a Natural Blessing that Obama City Takes Pride In
Unjō Water in Obama City, Fukui Prefecture, is clear groundwater springing forth from 30 meters underground that has been cherished by local people for over 70 years. Its water quality, selected as one of the Heisei Era’s Top 100 Waters, is indispensable not only as drinking water but also in the production of Obama’s specialty products including kuzu manju.
The geological phenomenon of abundant fresh water springing forth right beside the sea, the stable water temperature of approximately 13°C throughout the year, and the mellow taste filtered over 100 years—Unjō Water is filled with attractions worth visiting.
When you visit Obama City, be sure to stop by Unjō Water and experience this region’s natural blessing firsthand. The time you spend tasting cold and clear water while contemplating the abundant natural environment nurtured by Wakasa’s mountains and sea will surely become an unforgettable memory.
Unjō Water is not merely a sightseeing spot but the very identity of Obama City itself, where the region’s history, culture, and people’s lives breathe.
