Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water, Hokkaido | A Guide to the Charm and Visitor Information of This Nationally Renowned Spring Water with Japan’s Largest Spring Discharge
“Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water,” located in Kyogoku Town, Hokkaido, is a famous water spot that attracts many tourists throughout the year with its clear water flowing from the base of Yoshii Mountain, also known as Ezo Fuji. Boasting one of Japan’s largest spring water discharge rates of approximately 80,000 tons per day, it was selected as one of Japan’s “100 Famous Waters” by the Environment Agency in 1985, and as a “Hokkaido Heritage Site” in 2001. This article provides a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water, from the charm of this miracle of nature to practical information for visitors.
What is Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water?
Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water is natural water that results from rain and snow falling on Yoshii Mountain (elevation 1,898 meters) permeating underground over many decades, filtering and purifying as it passes through volcanic lava layers, and then welling up to the surface. Located within Fukidashi Park at the base of Yoshii Mountain in the northeastern part of Kyogoku Town, the water wells up from beneath the ground with such force that “gushing out” rather than “flowing” is the more apt description.
Evaluation and Designations as a Premium Water
Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water has received multiple important designations due to its excellent water quality and abundant volume. In Showa 60 (1985), it was designated as one of Japan’s “100 Famous Waters” selected by the Environment Agency (now the Ministry of the Environment), making it one of three famous waters selected from Hokkaido. The other two are “Kanrousen Water” in Rishiri Fuji Town and “Naivetsu River Spring Water” in Chitose and Ranshiro.
Furthermore, in Heisei 13 (2001), it was designated as a Hokkaido Heritage Site as “Kyogoku Fukidashi Spring Water,” becoming officially recognized as a natural resource representative of Hokkaido. These designations evaluate not only superior water quality but also the conservation status of the surrounding natural environment and the importance of the water resource to the region.
Japan’s Largest Spring Water Discharge and Water Characteristics
Overwhelming Spring Water Volume
The most distinctive feature of Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water is its overwhelming discharge volume. Approximately 80,000 tons of water well up daily, equivalent to the daily water usage of approximately 300,000 people. This spring water volume ranks among the largest in Japan, and visitors are overwhelmed by the force with which water continuously gushes out.
At the spring outlet, water pushed up from underground gushes forcefully, creating a scene like a natural fountain. This abundant water volume remains nearly constant throughout the year, with minimal seasonal variation—a point worth noting.
Water Quality and Temperature Characteristics
Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water is soft water with a well-balanced mineral content. As the water passes through Yoshii Mountain’s volcanic lava layers, natural filtration removes impurities while allowing mineral components from the geological strata to dissolve into the water, resulting in smooth and easy-to-drink water.
The water temperature remains nearly constant year-round at approximately 6.5°C. This unchanged temperature, whether in summer or winter, is a characteristic unique to water welling up from deep underground. When touched, the water’s refreshing coolness feels pleasant, and especially in summer, a sense of invigoration spreads throughout the body. When drunk, the water’s coldness combined with its pure freshness spreads through the mouth, allowing one to truly appreciate the natural bounty created by Yoshii Mountain.
Yoshii Mountain and the Spring Water Formation Mechanism
The Geology of Ezo Fuji / Yoshii Mountain
Yoshii Mountain is called “Ezo Fuji” due to its beautiful conical shape and is an active volcano representative of Hokkaido. This mountain, with an elevation of 1,898 meters, is a relatively young volcano that began activity approximately 50,000 years ago and was formed through multiple eruption events.
The mountain consists primarily of volcanic lava, volcanic ash, pumice, and other materials that readily permit water flow. Particularly, the lava layers contain countless voids that function as a natural filter. The geological structure of Yoshii Mountain itself is the source of the abundant spring water.
A Water Journey Spanning Decades
Rain and snow falling on Yoshii Mountain permeate the mountainside into the earth. This water seeps deep underground and slowly filters through volcanic lava layers and geological strata over extended periods. According to research by specialists, it is estimated that water falling on Yoshii Mountain takes several decades—in some cases over 80 years—before appearing as spring water on the surface.
Through this long natural filtration process spanning years, impurities are removed while mineral components from the geological layers dissolve appropriately into the water. The water that wells up at Fukidashi Park in Kyogoku Town is born through this process. In other words, the water we drink today is rain or snow that fell on Yoshii Mountain decades ago, reborn through many years of natural transformation.
Facilities and Access to Fukidashi Park
Facilities Within the Park
Fukidashi Park is a tourist facility developed around Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water as its center. The following facilities are arranged throughout the park:
Meisui Plaza (Roadside Station / Meisui no Sato Kyogoku)
As the central facility of the park, a complex facility offers tourist information, sales of local specialty products, and rest areas. In addition to local specialties from Kyogoku Town and famous products from Hokkaido, numerous items made using spring water are stocked.
Spring Water Collection Point
A properly maintained water fountain allows anyone to freely drink the spring water. It is also possible to collect water in bottles or plastic containers to take home. Many visitors bring large plastic containers to take this premium water home.
Walking Trails and Observation Spots
Hiking trails are developed within the park, allowing close observation of flowing spring water. One can observe the welling up of water, water plants swaying in the clear stream, and fish swimming in the highly transparent water.
Other Facilities
A triangular stage, rest facilities, sales shops, children’s playground equipment, and a grassy plaza are also arranged throughout, making the park enjoyable for families to spend a full day.
Access Methods
By Car
- From Sapporo: Approximately 2 hours (about 100 km via National Route 230)
- From New Chitose Airport: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
- From Niseko: Approximately 30 minutes
- From Kutchan: Approximately 20 minutes
Fukidashi Park is located along the Kyogoku Kutchan Prefectural Road and has parking facilities. One can easily find it by searching for “Fukidashi Park” or “Roadside Station Meisui no Sato Kyogoku” in car navigation systems or smartphone map applications.
By Public Transportation
Access via public transportation is somewhat inconvenient, making the use of taxis or rental cars from the nearest JR Kutchan Station the most practical option. During tourist season, sightseeing buses may operate from Kutchan Station, so it is recommended to contact Kyogoku Town Hall’s Planning and Promotion Division in advance.
Operating Hours and Usage Fees
Fukidashi Park itself is open 24 hours, and spring water can be collected anytime. However, facilities such as Meisui Plaza have operating hours.
- Park: Open 24 hours (open year-round)
- Meisui Plaza: Usually 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (varies by season)
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Free
Ways to Enjoy Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water
Collecting and Taking Home Premium Water
The primary purpose for many visitors is to take home this premium water. The collection point is well-maintained, and water can be drawn directly from a faucet. Those who bring containers such as bottles or plastic tanks can collect and take home as much water as they wish for free.
Convenient Items to Bring
- Plastic containers (10-20 liters are easy to carry)
- Multiple plastic bottles
- A funnel for easier pouring
- A towel for wiping water drops
- A cooler box (for summer transport)
Local residents regularly visit to collect water for drinking and cooking. Because it is soft water without strong flavor, it is perfect for brewing coffee and tea, and is reputed to produce delicious cooked rice.
Enjoying the Scenery Throughout the Four Seasons
Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water and Fukidashi Park display different beauty in each season.
Spring (April–June)
As the snow-melting season arrives, the contrast between the remaining snow on Yoshii Mountain and new greenery is beautiful. With spring’s arrival, plants in the park begin to sprout, and one can enjoy the spring water in fresh, clear air.
Summer (July–August)
The season attracting the most tourists. As temperatures rise, the approximately 6.5°C cold spring water offers exceptional refreshment. Many families enjoying picnics on the grassy plaza can be seen.
Autumn (September–November)
The autumn foliage season paints Yoshii Mountain’s slopes and surrounding trees in beautiful colors. The contrast between the colorfully tinted landscape and clear water under a crisp autumn sky is striking.
Winter (December–March)
Even during snow season, spring water does not freeze, and water collection is possible. The fantastical sight of steam rising from spring water surrounded by snow has a unique winter beauty. However, caution regarding icy road surfaces is necessary.
Photography Spots
Fukidashi Park is also popular as a photography location. Particularly recommended spots include:
- The spring outlet: Water gushing forcefully can be photographed up close
- Clear stream: The scenic landscape of transparent flowing water
- Compositions with Yoshii Mountain in the background: On clear days, majestic Yoshii Mountain provides an excellent backdrop for commemorative photos
- Underwater water plants: The swaying of aquatic plants and visible stones at the bottom of the water
Nearby Tourist Spots and Cuisine
Kyogoku Town’s Specialty Products
Kyogoku Town has abundant specialty products utilizing spring water. Meisui Plaza offers the following products:
Products Made with Kyogoku’s Premium Water
- Mineral water (bottled)
- Craft beer (made with premium water)
- Tofu (silken tofu made with premium water)
- Japanese sake (distilled with premium water by local breweries)
- Coffee (drip coffee brewed with premium water)
Agricultural Products
The Kyogoku Town area also has active agriculture, with fresh vegetables such as potatoes, asparagus, and corn available for purchase.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Makari Village’s Yoshii Mountain Spring Water
Located on nearly the opposite side of Yoshii Mountain from Fukidashi Park, this is another famous spring water spot. It is situated near the Yoshii Mountain hiking entrance in Makari Village and is also known as premium water. Visiting both locations to compare the water quality differences is interesting.
Niseko Area
Located approximately 30 minutes away by car, Niseko is world-renowned as a resort destination for summer rafting and cycling and winter skiing and snowboarding. Travel plans combining activities with spring water tours are popular.
Kutchan Town
Located on the north side of Yoshii Mountain, this town is famous as a “potato” producing region. Fresh agricultural products can be purchased at roadside stations.
Lake Toya
Approximately one hour by car from Fukidashi Park, Lake Toya is a tourist destination known for its beautiful caldera lake and hot springs. One can enjoy lakeside walks and hot spring bathing.
Recommended Circuit Routes
One-Day Course
- Morning: Spring water collection and park walking at Fukidashi Park (2 hours)
- Lunch: Local cuisine at Meisui Plaza or Kutchan Town
- Afternoon: Activities in the Niseko area or visiting Makari Village’s spring water spot
Two-Day, One-Night Course
- Day 1: Travel from Sapporo to Fukidashi Park, afternoon activities in Niseko, overnight stay in Niseko or Kutchan
- Day 2: Tour tourist spots around Yoshii Mountain, bathe at Lake Toya hot spring, return to Sapporo
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
Etiquette When Collecting Water
Since many people use the public collection point, the following etiquette should be observed:
- Wait your turn and avoid monopolizing the collection point for long periods
- Be careful not to flood the area around the collection point
- Always take trash away
- Use clean containers
- Avoid large-scale collection for commercial purposes
Water Storage and Use
Since the collected water is raw water, storage and use require attention.
- Store in a clean container in a cool, dark place
- After opening, refrigerate and use quickly
- For long-term storage, boil before use
- Depending on individual health and constitution, boiling before consumption is recommended
Winter Visits
While spring water does not freeze during winter and collection is possible, please note the following:
- Be cautious of icy road surfaces (studless tires are essential)
- Take thorough cold-weather precautions
- Some walking trails may be impassable due to snow accumulation
- Since sunset comes early, visits during daylight hours are recommended
Environmental Conservation Activities at Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water
Regional Initiatives
Kyogoku Town undertakes various environmental conservation activities to preserve this precious water resource for future generations.
Protection of Water Source Forests
Yoshii Mountain’s forests are important water source forests that create spring water. The town continues forest conservation activities and implements appropriate forest management.
Water Quality Monitoring
Regular water quality testing is conducted to monitor the spring water quality. Consistently excellent water quality has been maintained to date, preserving standards worthy of a famous water designation.
Environmental Education
Local schools conduct environmental education using Fukidashi Spring Water as a subject, teaching children the importance of regional natural resources.
What Visitors Can Do
The awareness and actions of individual visitors contribute to preserving this beautiful natural environment.
- Strictly carry away all trash
- Do not damage park vegetation
- Do not contaminate spring water or surrounding environments
- Follow regional rules and etiquette
- Understand the importance of environmental conservation and communicate it to others
Product Development Using Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water
Initiatives by Local Enterprises
Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water is utilized in various products due to its excellent quality.
Drinking Water
At “Seico Mart,” a Hokkaido convenience store chain, “Kyogoku’s Premium Water” is commercialized and available for purchase throughout the region. This natural water, refined and purified over decades, is beloved by many as a rare water resource.
Processed Foods
The water is used in foods whose flavor depends on water quality, such as tofu, konnyaku, and noodles. Tofu made with premium water is particularly reputed to highlight the original flavor of soybeans.
Alcoholic Beverages
Local sake breweries use this premium water as brewing water for sake production. Craft beer breweries in the Niseko area also use Yoshii Mountain spring water, and their beers have become popular.
Popularity as a Souvenir
Meisui Plaza sells various products made with spring water as souvenirs. Bottled water is popular as convenient souvenirs and gifts for loved ones. Gift sets combining local specialty products are also popular.
Other Spring Water Spots Around Yoshii Mountain
Yoshii Mountain is also called the “Mountain of Water,” and multiple spring water spots exist in the surrounding area.
Makari Village’s Spring Water
Near Yoshii Mountain’s southwestern side, Makari Village also has a spring water spot near the Yoshii Mountain hiking entrance. Like Fukidashi Park, this is subterranean water from Yoshii Mountain, mineral-rich water welling up. Since it is not as developed for tourism as Fukidashi Park, one can collect water in a quiet environment.
Spring Water Locations in the Niseko Area
The Niseko area contains multiple spring water points used by local residents. “Premium water tours” that visit various spring water locations while circling Yoshii Mountain have become popular activities among water enthusiasts.
Summary: The Charm of Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water
Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water is a natural treasure of which Hokkaido can be proud. The approximately 80,000-ton-per-day Japan-leading spring discharge volume, the water temperature maintained year-round at approximately 6.5°C, the soft water with appropriate mineral content, and above all the clear water created by Yoshii Mountain over decades—all these elements make this location special.
The designations as a famous water and Hokkaido heritage site are not mere titles but proof of the value of this water and environment. The attitude of Kyogoku Town residents and those in surrounding areas who have long carefully preserved this natural resource and attempted to pass it on to future generations further enhances the value of this place.
When visiting Hokkaido, please visit Yoshii Fukidashi Spring Water. Tasting the clear water welling from the base of Ezo Fuji and taking a deep breath amid majestic nature will refresh both body and mind, allowing you to forget daily hustle and bustle. The water nurtured by Yoshii Mountain over decades teaches visitors the greatness of nature and the preciousness of water.
Please take this premium water home, which can be collected freely and without charge, and feel Yoshii Mountain’s blessings in your daily life. Brewing coffee or tea or using it in cooking will allow you to sense Hokkaido’s great nature up close and personal.
