Ōyūsui (Yamanashi Prefecture) Complete Guide: The Charm and Visitor Information of a Famous Water Spot at the Base of Mount Fuji
Ōyūsui (大湧水) in Yamanashi Prefecture is known as a beautiful famous water spot where underground spring water from Mount Fuji wells up. We introduce in detail the access methods and ways to enjoy this place, which continues to captivate visitors with its crystal-clear water quality and mystical landscape.
What is Ōyūsui? Basic Information and Characteristics
Ōyūsui is a spring-fed pool located in Oshino Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, where snowmelt from Mount Fuji flows through underground for many years before surfacing as a natural water source.
Geographic Location and Environment
Ōyūsui is located at an elevation of approximately 940 meters on the northern slope of Mount Fuji. Known as part of the Oshino Hakkai area, it has been cherished since ancient times as a water village with multiple spring-fed pools scattered throughout the surrounding area.
The distance from Mount Fuji is approximately 15 kilometers in a straight line. Rain and snow that fall on Mount Fuji slowly permeate through the underground lava layer, and after several decades, well up to the surface, which is why the water temperature remains stable at around 13 degrees Celsius throughout the year.
Water Quality Characteristics
The greatest appeal of Ōyūsui is its high transparency. Mount Fuji’s basalt layer functions as a natural filter, removing impurities and allowing pure, clear water to well up.
Water quality tests have confirmed the following characteristics:
- pH Value: Weakly alkaline (around 7.5)
- Hardness: Soft water (approximately 30-50 mg/L)
- Mineral Content: Balanced amounts of calcium, magnesium, silica, and other minerals
- Transparency: On clear days, visibility extends several meters into the water
Due to this excellent water quality, the springs around Ōyūsui have been selected as part of the “Heisei’s 100 Famous Waters” and “Japan’s 100 Famous Waters,” making it a premier famous water spot in Japan.
History and Cultural Background of Ōyūsui
Ancient Faith and Usage
The spring-fed pool group in Oshino Village, including Ōyūsui, has been used as a water source for local residents since ancient times. During the Edo period when Mount Fuji worship was popular, the water is said to have played an important role as purifying water for mountain priests and pilgrims heading to climb Mount Fuji.
Members of Fuji religious cults are said to have performed purification rituals in this spring water before climbing Mount Fuji, cleansing their bodies and minds before heading to the sacred mountain. This religious and cultural background is the source of the mystical atmosphere that Ōyūsui retains today.
Connection to the Local Community
For the people of Oshino Village, spring water is more than just a water source. It is carefully preserved as a symbol of the community’s identity, not only used for agricultural and domestic water but also cherished as an important cultural asset.
Various conservation efforts are carried out locally, including regular water quality surveys, environmental cleanup activities around the springs, and ongoing educational activities for tourists.
Highlights and Ways to Enjoy Ōyūsui
The Beautiful Landscape of the Spring-Fed Pool
The greatest highlight of Ōyūsui is the beautiful color of the water. Depending on the weather and angle of light, the water surface displays various expressions, from emerald green to cobalt blue, offering different charms depending on the time of visit.
Recommended Times to Visit:
- Early Morning (6:00-8:00): With few tourists, you can enjoy the beauty of the water surface all to yourself. The time when morning sunlight shines is particularly magical.
- Morning (9:00-11:00): Sunlight reaches the bottom of the water, making this the best time to experience the high transparency.
- Dusk (16:00-18:00): The contrast between Mount Fuji’s silhouette and the spring water is beautiful, making it ideal for photography.
The Underwater World
With its high transparency, observing the underwater world of Ōyūsui is also one of its pleasures. You can clearly see submerged stones, aquatic plants, and even fish swimming occasionally.
The following organisms inhabit the spring-fed pool:
- Fish: Iwana (char), yamame (Japanese trout), and rainbow trout and other clear stream fish
- Aquatic Plants: Baikamo (Japanese buttercup) and other rare aquatic plants
- Aquatic Insects: Caddisflies, mayflies, and other clear stream indicator organisms
The presence of these organisms serves as a living indicator of water quality.
Photography Tips
Ōyūsui is an excellent subject for photography enthusiasts. Keeping the following points in mind allows for more beautiful photographs:
- Use of Polarizing Filters: Suppresses water surface reflections and allows clear capture of the underwater scenery.
- Low-Angle Photography: Shooting from near the water surface emphasizes water transparency.
- Long Exposure: Using a tripod to expose for several seconds expresses the flow of water smoothly.
- Combining with Mount Fuji: If weather permits, composition that includes Mount Fuji in the background is possible.
Access Methods and Transportation Information
Access by Car
Car access is the most convenient way to reach Ōyūsui.
From the Tokyo Area:
- Approximately 15 minutes (about 10 km) from Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway
- Approximately 5 minutes (about 3 km) from Yamanaka Lake IC on the East Fuji Five Lakes Road
From the Nagoya/Osaka Area:
- Approximately 30 minutes (about 25 km) from Gotemba IC on the Tomei Expressway
Parking Information:
Multiple parking lots are available in Oshino Village. The parking lots closest to Ōyūsui are as follows:
- Oshino Hakkai Parking Lot No. 1: Regular vehicles 300 yen, large vehicles 1,000 yen
- Municipal Parking Lot: Free (limited spaces)
- Private Parking Lots: 200-500 yen (multiple options available)
Weekends and tourist season (April-November) tend to be crowded, so an early morning visit is recommended.
Access by Public Transportation
Train and Bus:
- Take the Fuji Kyuko Line to Fujisan Station or Fujiyoshida Station
- Board Fuji Kyuko Route Bus bound for Uchinō (approximately 15 minutes)
- Get off at Oshino Hakkai bus stop and walk approximately 5 minutes
Bus Operation Information:
- Frequency: About 1-2 buses per hour
- Fare: Approximately 400 yen one way
- Travel Time: Approximately 20 minutes from Fujisan Station
Additional buses may be added during the tourist season. It is recommended to check the latest timetable on the Fuji Kyuko Bus official website.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Oshino Hakkai
When visiting Ōyūsui, be sure to explore the other pools of Oshino Hakkai. Oshino Hakkai is the collective name for eight spring-fed pools, each with its own characteristics:
- Wakuike (Waking Pool): Has the most water volume with a depth of approximately 4 meters
- Nigoriiike (Turbid Pool): The only cloudy pool, offering an interesting contrast
- Kagamiike (Mirror Pool): A spectacular spot where Mount Fuji is reflected in the water surface
- Shōbuike (Iris Pool): In early summer, irises bloom beautifully
- Sokonashiike (Bottomless Pool): Deep waters with a mystical atmosphere
- Okamaiike (Pot Pool): The smallest but with outstanding water transparency
- Chōshiiike (Vessel Pool): Characterized by its elongated shape
- Deguchiiike (Outlet Pool): The largest of the eight pools
The time required to visit all the pools on foot is approximately 1-2 hours. Each pool offers a different appearance.
Mount Fuji World Heritage Center
Located approximately 10 minutes by car from Oshino Village, the Mount Fuji World Heritage Center allows you to learn about Mount Fuji’s nature, history, and culture. Geological explanations are also displayed regarding how the spring-fed pool group, including Ōyūsui, was formed.
- Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (admission until 16:30)
- Closed Days: Fourth Tuesday of every month (if a holiday, the following day)
- Admission Fee: General 420 yen, University/High School Students 210 yen, Junior High and Below Free
Lake Yamanaka
Approximately 10 minutes by car from Ōyūsui, Lake Yamanaka is the largest and highest elevation of the Fuji Five Lakes. The view of Mount Fuji from the lake shore is spectacular, and you can enjoy nature in all seasons.
Activities at Lake Yamanaka:
- Boating and canoeing experiences
- Cycling (approximately 14 km around the lake)
- Birdwatching
- Diamond Fuji observation in winter
Charm by Season
Spring (March-May)
Spring at Ōyūsui is a season where fresh greenery and snow-capped Mount Fuji create a beautiful contrast. From late April to May, cherry blossoms and moss phlox in the surrounding area come into bloom, and you can enjoy their interplay with the spring water.
While the water temperature remains stable throughout the year, in spring the water volume increases due to snowmelt inflow, allowing observation of the spring water’s stronger flow.
Spring Highlights:
- Combining tourism with the Mount Fuji Moss Phlox Festival (mid-April to late May)
- Fresh landscape of greenery and spring water
- Relatively uncrowded period (except Golden Week)
Summer (June-August)
Summer at Ōyūsui is bustling with tourists seeking coolness. Even on days when surrounding temperatures exceed 30 degrees Celsius, the area around the spring water remains several degrees cooler, providing a natural air-conditioner-like coolness.
This is also the season when the aquatic plants in the water are most beautifully lush, and you can enjoy a green-rich underwater landscape. The sight of white Baikamo flowers blooming underwater is particularly worthwhile.
Summer Highlights:
- Ideal as a refuge spot to escape summer heat
- A time when the flowers of aquatic plants are beautiful
- Early morning visits are necessary to avoid crowds
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn is the best season for Ōyūsui sightseeing. The contrast between autumn foliage and spring water, combined with clear air and Mount Fuji at its most beautiful, make this the peak season.
From late October to early November, the surrounding trees change color, and the sight of red and yellow fallen leaves floating on the water surface adds a picturesque quality.
Autumn Highlights:
- Spectacular collaboration of autumn foliage and spring water
- Interplay with Mount Fuji’s first snow (late October-November)
- Pleasant weather ideal for walking and exploration
Winter (December-February)
Winter at Ōyūsui presents its most mystical appearance. Even in the freezing cold surrounding the area, the spring water never freezes, and the steam-like water vapor rising up is magical.
The combination of snow-covered Mount Fuji and the spring water is like a painting. Few tourists visit, allowing you to enjoy the landscape slowly in silence.
Winter Highlights:
- Magical landscape of snowy scenery and spring water
- Opportunity to observe Diamond Fuji
- Peaceful viewing experience with few tourists
Important Precautions and Etiquette During Visits
Consideration for Environmental Conservation
Ōyūsui is a precious natural resource. When visiting, please follow the following etiquette:
- Always Take Trash With You: Throwing away garbage is strictly prohibited to protect water quality.
- Do Not Throw Objects Into the Pools: Throwing coins and other objects into the water leads to water pollution.
- Do Not Contaminate the Water: Avoid activities such as washing hands or wading in the water.
- Do Not Collect Plants: Harvesting aquatic plants is prohibited.
- Do Not Enter Areas Outside Designated Zones: Do not enter private property or off-limits areas.
Safety Precautions
- Be Careful of Slippery Areas: The area around the spring water is humid, and stones and boardwalks become slippery.
- Do Not Enter Inside Fences: There is a risk of falling into the pool.
- Do Not Take Your Eyes Off Small Children: Parents should exercise caution to prevent water-related accidents.
- Prepare for Sudden Weather Changes: Weather in mountainous areas can change rapidly, so carrying rain gear is recommended.
Photography Etiquette
Photography is free, but please note the following:
- Be considerate of other tourists
- When using tripods, choose a location that does not obstruct traffic
- Drone use is generally prohibited
- Commercial photography may require advance permission
Enjoying Ōyūsui’s Water
About Drinking
The water at Ōyūsui is generally safe for drinking, but in some locations it may not be suitable. There are signs indicating “Drinkable” where drinking is safe, so be sure to check.
When drinking, note the following:
- Draw water from locations close to the spring source
- Use clean containers
- The water is not suitable for long-term storage, so drink it promptly
- If you have health concerns, boil the water before drinking
Water-Drawing Spots
Water-drawing locations have been established in Oshino Village. Bring plastic bottles or water containers to draw water freely.
Water-Drawing Etiquette:
- Avoid occupying the area for long periods; practice a spirit of cooperation
- Be considerate of other users when drawing large amounts
- Do not dirty the area around the water source
- Do not waste water
Nearby Dining and Souvenir Information
Local Cuisine
Various cuisines utilizing spring water can be enjoyed around Oshino Village:
Soba: Soba noodles made with spring water have an exceptional taste. Several soba restaurants in the village feature 100% buckwheat soba, which is particularly popular.
Tofu Dishes: Tofu made with spring water is creamy and rich. Yudofu (hot pot tofu) and tofu steak are available.
Trout Dishes: Rainbow trout raised in spring water, whether salt-grilled or served as sashimi, is fresh and delicious.
Spring Water Coffee: Coffee brewed with spring water has no off-flavors and allows you to enjoy the true taste of the beans.
Souvenirs
The following souvenirs are recommended as mementos of your Ōyūsui visit:
- Spring Water Bottles: Mineral water filled with Oshino springs
- Local Sake: Japanese sake brewed with Mount Fuji’s underground spring water
- Soba Products: Dried noodles, fresh soba, soba tea, etc.
- Tofu Products: Spring water tofu and soy milk products
- Oshino Hakkai Goods: Postcards, hand towels, etc.
Accommodation Information
For those who wish to spend time relaxing around Ōyūsui, the following accommodations are available:
Accommodations Within Oshino Village
- Minshuku (Family-run Inns) and Pensions: Provide a homey atmosphere with local cuisine. Rates are approximately 7,000-12,000 yen per night for two meals.
- Guesthouses: Reasonably priced accommodations. Room-only rates are approximately 3,000-5,000 yen.
Accommodations in Nearby Areas
- Around Lake Yamanaka: Resort hotels and cottages are plentiful. Many facilities offer views of Mount Fuji.
- Around Lake Kawaguchi: A wealth of hot spring inns and hotels. Hot springs with views of Mount Fuji are popular.
- Fujiyoshida City Center: A wide range of options from business hotels to traditional inns.
Conclusion: How to Fully Enjoy the Charm of Ōyūsui
Ōyūsui is a precious spot where you can experience Mount Fuji’s blessings with all five senses. The exceptionally transparent spring water, mystical landscape, and the rich natural environment of the surrounding area provide visitors with profound emotional experiences.
When visiting, take time to savor the beauty of the spring water, which displays different expressions depending on the season and time of day, while not forgetting consideration for environmental conservation and maintaining an awareness of passing this precious natural resource on to future generations.
By exploring the other pools of Oshino Hakkai together, you can gain a deeper understanding of the water culture at the base of Mount Fuji. Also, while enjoying the surrounding tourist attractions and local cuisine, create lasting memories of a fulfilling trip.
Ōyūsui is a natural treasure that Japan takes pride in. Helping more people learn about its beauty and mystique while working to protect it is our responsibility. By all means, visit this wonderful famous water spot.
