Sarukura no Izumi (Iida City, Nagano Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Access, and How to Enjoy Japan’s Select 100 Springs
Sarukura no Izumi (さるくらのいずみ), quietly flowing at the foot of Mt. Kazakoshi in Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, is a renowned spring water representing Minami-Shinshu, designated as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s “Japan’s Select 100 Springs.” This clear water, flowing from granite bedrock in the Central Alps mountain range, has been cherished by tea masters and literati since the Edo period and continues to be carefully preserved today as a local treasure.
This article introduces all the charm of this famous spring, from its historical background and water quality characteristics to its use in the community, ways to enjoy your visit, and access information.
What is Sarukura no Izumi | Famous Spring Water Selected for Japan’s Select 100 Springs
Background of Selection
Sarukura no Izumi was designated as one of the “Japan’s Select 100 Springs” selected by the Ministry of the Environment (then called the Environmental Agency) in 1985. Among the 100 springs chosen nationwide, its water quality and deep connection with the community were highly evaluated.
This spring water, located in Engo Sawa at the foot of Mt. Kazakoshi (elevation 1,535m) standing to the northwest of Iida City, emerges at the surface after passing through granite bedrock of the Central Alps mountain system. Water naturally filtered over many years has a characteristic smooth and soft taste.
Water Quality and Characteristics of the Spring
Sarukura no Izumi’s water, after passing through granite layer formations, contains moderate mineral content while maintaining exceptionally clear flavor. The water temperature remains stable year-round at approximately 12-14 degrees Celsius, feeling cold in summer and relatively warm in winter.
These water quality characteristics fulfill ideal conditions for tea ceremony tea and sake brewing water, which is why the spring has been treasured by many tea masters and sake brewers since ancient times.
Continuing History from the Edo Period | The Story of a Famous Spring Water Sought by Tea Masters
Legend of Discovery by Tea Master Fuzoan Ryukei
Sarukura no Izumi became widely known during the middle Edo period. It is said that Fuzoan Ryukei (ふぞうあんりゅうけい), a renowned tea master, discovered it while traveling throughout the country seeking water suitable for ideal tea ceremony preparation, tracing upstream from the Engo Sawa river.
Master Ryukei was deeply moved by the taste of tea prepared with this water and named it “Sarukura no Izumi.” The origin of the name “Sarukura” is attributed to various theories, including the abundance of monkeys living in the surrounding Mt. Kazakoshi area or the region’s old names.
Tea Culture and Famous Springs During the Edo Period
During the Edo period, tea ceremony spread from samurai society to the common people, developing a culture that sought out famous springs in various regions. Sarukura no Izumi became a particularly renowned destination for excellent tea ceremony water, attracting many tea masters from afar.
Historical records from that time preserve accounts of tea masters who visited Sarukura no Izumi from distant places, suggesting that this region was an important hub of tea culture. Local people have a history of protecting this famous water as a community asset.
Deep Connection with the Community | Activities of the Sarukura no Izumi Preservation Society
Maintenance and Management by the Preservation Society
The clear environment of Sarukura no Izumi is protected through the dedicated activities of the “Sarukura no Izumi Preservation Society,” an organization composed of local residents. The society conducts regular weekly cleaning and maintenance of the spring area, working to provide a secure environment for visitors to enjoy the famous water.
The spring area is equipped with facilities for collecting water and rest spaces, allowing visitors to freely take home the spring water (containers must be brought by visitors themselves). However, the Ministry of the Environment’s Select 100 Springs does not necessarily guarantee suitability for drinking, so judgment regarding consumption should be made at one’s own discretion.
Positioning as a Community Asset
For Iida City and local residents, Sarukura no Izumi is not merely a water source but an important cultural asset that forms the region’s identity. It is utilized not only as a tourism resource but also as teaching material for regional history education and environmental conservation.
It is used as a location for elementary school social studies field trips and environmental learning, helping to cultivate awareness of protecting and passing down this famous spring to future generations.
Wild Tea Ceremony | Experiencing Traditional Tea Culture with Famous Spring Water
Charm of Weekly Wild Tea Ceremonies
The Sarukura no Izumi Preservation Society holds wild tea ceremonies (野点呈茶会) every Sunday and national holiday from early May to late October (held from 10:00 to 15:00). At these ceremonies, matcha tea whisked with water from Sarukura no Izumi can be enjoyed by the spring’s naturally rich surroundings.
The wild tea ceremony provides a valuable opportunity to experience in the modern era the famous spring water loved by Edo period tea masters. From fresh green seasons to autumn foliage, visitors can spend leisurely time with the changing natural landscape of Mt. Kazakoshi as backdrop.
How to Participate and Enjoy the Wild Tea Ceremony
Participation in the wild tea ceremony requires no advance reservation; anyone can participate freely during operating hours. Members of the preservation society carefully prepare matcha tea that can be enjoyed with Japanese sweets.
When visiting, clothing suitable for movement is recommended given the outdoor nature of the tea ceremony. Also, those wishing to take home famous spring water should bring clean containers.
Kikumizu Sake Brewery and Sarukura no Izumi | Famous Spring Water Creating Premium Sake
Relationship Between the Region’s Only Sake Brewery and Famous Spring Water
Kikumizu Sake Brewery, the only sake brewery in the Minami-Shinshu and Iida-Shimoina region including Iida City, uses water from Sarukura no Izumi as brewing water to produce high-quality Japanese sake.
The flagship brand “Junmai Ginjo Sarukura no Izumi” is carefully crafted through long-term low-temperature fermentation using water from Sarukura no Izumi, designated as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s Select 100 Springs, and “Miyamanishiki,” a Shinshu sake rice, polished to 55%.
Characteristics of the Sake “Sarukura no Izumi”
Kikumizu Sake Brewery’s “Junmai Ginjo Sarukura no Izumi” is characterized by gentle, fluffy ginjo aroma and a solid flavor profile. The softness of the famous spring water is reflected in the sake quality, resulting in a smooth and easy-to-drink finish.
Locally, it is widely enjoyed at dining occasions and as a gift, positioned as an important local sake supporting the region’s food culture. When visiting Iida City, be sure to enjoy it with local cuisine.
Regional Specialty Products Using Sarukura no Izumi
Japanese Confectionery Using Famous Spring Water
Japanese confectionery shops in Iida City manufacture confections using water from Sarukura no Izumi. Particularly in summer, cooling sweets utilizing the freshness of the famous spring water are popular.
These confections create distinctly Iida flavor by combining local ingredients with the famous spring water. They are appreciated as popular souvenirs.
Other Regional Products
Besides sake and confections, water from Sarukura no Izumi is utilized at local restaurants and food manufacturers. In foods like tofu and noodles where water quality significantly affects taste, this famous spring water plays an important role.
Access Information | How to Reach Sarukura no Izumi
Access by Automobile
From Iida IC on the Chuo Expressway
- Distance: Approximately 6km
- Travel time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
- Head north on National Route 153 and follow directional signs toward Mt. Kazakoshi
Parking is available for approximately 8 vehicles near the spring. The lot may become congested on holidays or during wild tea ceremony events, so it is recommended to allow extra time for your visit.
Access by Public Transportation
From Iida Station on the JR Iida Line
- Taxi: Approximately 10-15 minutes
- Buses: Service is limited, so check the schedule in advance
Rental cars are available around Iida Station, making it convenient to combine with other regional sightseeing.
Nearby Sightseeing Spots
Near Sarukura no Izumi are the Mt. Kazakoshi hiking trailhead, Iida City Art Museum, Iida Castle ruins (Iida Municipal Zoo), and many other attractions. Planning a day course to fully enjoy the nature and culture of Minami-Shinshu is also recommended.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
Cooperation in Environmental Conservation
Sarukura no Izumi is a precious community asset. Please cooperate with the following when visiting:
- Always take trash away with you
- Refrain from smoking around the spring
- Avoid actions that disturb other visitors, such as loud voices
- Use clean containers to prevent contaminating the spring water
- Parking outside designated parking areas is strictly prohibited as it inconveniences local residents
Precautions Regarding Consumption
The Ministry of the Environment’s Select 100 Springs designation acknowledges water quality but does not guarantee suitability for drinking. If consuming spring water, please note the following:
- Judgment is made at one’s own discretion
- Those with concerns are advised to boil before use
- Those with health concerns or those with infants should judge carefully regarding use
- For questions about consumption, please contact Iida City Hall or the Iida Tourism Association
Sarukura no Izumi Through the Four Seasons
Spring (March to May)
As the snow-melting season arrives, new green growth appears on Mt. Kazakoshi’s slopes. Wild tea ceremonies begin in early May, allowing visitors to enjoy the famous spring while feeling the season’s arrival.
Summer (June to August)
The season of deep green arrives, with the spring area bustling with those seeking cool refreshment. The cold spring water is pleasant, making people forget summer’s heat. Wild tea ceremonies are held weekly, allowing visitors to fully enjoy tea time in nature.
Autumn (September to November)
The season of beautiful autumn foliage on Mt. Kazakoshi. Visitors can spend luxurious time enjoying the famous spring with colorful mountains as backdrop. Wild tea ceremonies continue through late October.
Winter (December to February)
While snow may sometimes make visiting difficult, winter’s quiet spring has its own special charm. The wild tea ceremony is suspended during winter, but the spring itself continues flowing year-round.
Contact Information
Basic Information
Location
〒395-0000 Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, Kami-Iida
Inquiries
Iida Tourism Association / Machino Naka Information Center
TEL: 0265-22-4851
Visiting Hours
Anytime (Wild tea ceremonies held Sundays and national holidays from early May to late October, 10:00-15:00)
Closed Days
None (Open year-round for viewing)
Parking
Approximately 8 regular vehicles
Admission
Free (Wild tea ceremony participation may be subject to fees)
Conclusion | Experiencing Minami-Shinshu’s Water Culture at Sarukura no Izumi
Sarukura no Izumi is one of Nagano Prefecture’s proud Select 100 Springs and a regional treasure preserved from the Edo period to the present day. The clear water flowing at the foot of Mt. Kazakoshi is deeply connected with tea culture, sake brewing, and regional food culture, symbolizing Minami-Shinshu’s rich water culture.
Through the dedicated maintenance activities of the local Sarukura no Izumi Preservation Society, visitors can still experience today the famous spring water beloved by Edo period tea masters. At weekly held wild tea ceremonies, visitors can spend luxurious time enjoying matcha whisked with the famous spring water in nature.
The premium “Sarukura no Izumi” junmai ginjo from Kikumizu Sake Brewery and local confections are among the attractions, representing specialty products created using the famous spring water. When visiting Minami-Shinshu, be sure to stop by Sarukura no Izumi and experience the taste of the famous spring, infused with long history and the dedication of local people.
Sarukura no Izumi, where the blessings of the Central Alps harmonize with the hearts of people who preserve and pass it down, quietly conveys to visitors the importance of nature and the richness of regional culture.
