Shimizugawa (Ogi City, Saga Prefecture) Complete Guide | The Charm of Japan’s Top 100 Waters and Tourism Information for Shimizu Falls
Shimizugawa (清水川), which flows through Ogi City in Saga Prefecture, is known as a clear stream blessed by Mount Tenzan and is a first-class river selected in 1985 by the Ministry of the Environment as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Waters.” This river, with its clear water quality, rich natural environment, and deep historical ties to the lives of local people, continues to captivate many visitors as a leading waterside tourist destination in Saga Prefecture.
Overview and Basic Information about Shimizugawa
What is Shimizugawa?
Shimizugawa is a first-class river in the Kasegawa River system, a tributary of the Gion River flowing through Ogi Town, Ogi City, Saga Prefecture. With Mount Tenzan at an elevation of 1,046 meters as its source, it carries abundant spring water to the town of Ogi, known as “Saga’s Little Kyoto.”
The river has a total length of approximately 10 kilometers, with its source area designated within the Tenzan Prefectural Natural Park, preserving a pristine natural environment. True to its name, which means “clear water river,” its water is extremely crystalline and has long been used as domestic water and a water source for the local residents.
Water System and Geographic Characteristics
Shimizugawa belongs to the Kasegawa River system and merges with the Gion River, which also originates from the Tenzan mountain range. The Gion River is famous as a habitat for fireflies, and approximately 2.5 kilometers upstream from the confluence with Shimizugawa stands Shimizu Falls, which can be said to be the symbol of this river.
Thanks to abundant spring water from Mount Tenzan, it maintains stable water volume throughout the year, and with relatively consistent water temperature year-round, it forms a rich ecosystem where diverse aquatic organisms thrive.
Value as One of Japan’s Top 100 Waters
In 1985 (Showa 60), Shimizugawa was selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Waters” by the Ministry of the Environment. This selection was based on comprehensive evaluation not only of water quality but also conservation activities by local residents, the beauty of the waterside environment, and historical and cultural value.
Even today, the water quality remains so excellent that it is suitable for drinking and serves as an important water source for Ogi City’s municipal water supply. However, just because it is listed among the Top 100 Waters does not mean all areas are suitable for drinking. If you wish to drink the water, it is recommended to check with the relevant departments of Ogi City or Saga Prefecture.
The water of Shimizugawa, characterized as soft water, is smooth and easy to drink, and is utilized in local sake brewing and cooking.
The Charm of Shimizu Falls (Tamasudare Falls)
Basic Information about Shimizu Falls
Shimizu Falls is a spectacular waterfall located in the upper reaches of Shimizugawa, boasting a width of 13 meters and a drop of 75 meters. Also known by its alternate name “Tamasudare Falls” (珠簾の滝), it is characterized by the beautiful sight of countless water droplets cascading like a jade curtain.
Location: Matsuo, Ogi Town, Ogi City, Saga Prefecture
Waterfall Dimensions: 13m wide × 75m drop
Parking: Shimizu Falls Parking Area (free)
Admission: Free
Inquiries: Hoji-in Temple (0952-72-2840)
Kannon Bodhisattva Faith and Training Ground
Shimizu Falls has long been known as a sacred site for Kannon Bodhisattva worship and has been used as a place of spiritual training. Today, you can still see ascetics and believers performing waterfall meditation, with visitors coming from as far as the Kansai region.
Hoji-in Temple is located near the falls, providing guidance for waterfall meditation and accommodation facilities. The practice of standing under the sacred water as spiritual training is a sacred experience for purification of body and mind that has been passed down to many believers.
Scenery of All Four Seasons
Shimizu Falls displays a different character with each season.
Spring: The falls, surrounded by fresh green foliage, overflow with vitality, and water volume increases with snowmelt.
Summer: Attracts tourists seeking coolness, and the air rich in negative ions makes it a pleasant summer retreat.
Autumn: Surrounding autumn leaves color the falls, offering the most beautiful scenery of the year.
Winter: In harsh cold, the falls sometimes freeze, displaying a fantastical ice waterfall.
Facilities and Specialties Around the Falls
Near Shimizu Falls, there are several restaurants serving carp cuisine utilizing the clean flow of Shimizugawa. “Shimizu Carp Cuisine” is famous as a specialty of Ogi City, and carp raised in the clear water has no fishy smell and can be enjoyed as sashimi, “arai” (thinly sliced raw carp), carp soup, and more.
Being able to enjoy local cuisine alongside waterfall viewing is one of the major attractions of Shimizugawa tourism.
Natural Environment and Ecosystem of Shimizugawa
Habitat of Genji Fireflies
The Gion River, into which Shimizugawa flows, is nationally famous as a habitat for Genji fireflies. Since Shimizugawa itself maintains excellent water quality, diverse aquatic organisms including fireflies inhabit it.
On early summer nights, the fantastical light of fireflies colors the river surface, attracting many tourists and photography enthusiasts. The presence of fireflies is also an indicator of good water quality and speaks to the results of environmental conservation efforts by local residents.
Aquatic Life and Vegetation
Shimizugawa is home to freshwater fish such as dace, pale chub, and goby, while water birds like kingfishers can be observed on the river banks. Water plants such as reed and wild rice grass grow along the water’s edge, forming a rich ecosystem.
In the source area designated as part of Tenzan Prefectural Natural Park, more pristine natural environment is preserved, serving as a habitat for rare flora and fauna.
Tenzan Prefectural Natural Park
The Tenzan area, including the source of Shimizugawa, is designated as a Saga Prefectural Natural Park. Mount Tenzan, at 1,046 meters elevation, has groundwater nurtured by abundant precipitation and forests that becomes the source of Shimizugawa, and conservation of this natural environment is directly connected to protecting the clean stream.
Well-maintained hiking courses are available, making the combination of Mount Tenzan climbing and Shimizugawa walks a popular nature experience.
History and Culture of Shimizugawa and the Region
Connection with Ogi, “Saga’s Little Kyoto”
Ogi Town in Ogi City, where Shimizugawa flows, is called “Saga’s Little Kyoto,” a region with historical streets and culture. During the Edo period, it flourished as the castle town of the Ogi Domain, and the clear water of Shimizugawa played an important role as domestic water for the castle town.
Water channels still remain throughout the town today, with water from Shimizugawa nourishing the community. The history of Ogi, living with water, cannot be told without Shimizugawa.
Use as Water Source
The water of Shimizugawa has long been used as drinking water for local residents. In modern times, it remains one of the important water sources for Ogi City’s municipal water supply, delivered to homes after appropriate water purification treatment.
The excellent water quality worthy of selection as one of the Top 100 Waters is maintained by conservation of the natural environment in the upstream area and high environmental consciousness of local residents.
Local Conservation Efforts
To preserve the beautiful environment of Shimizugawa, ongoing conservation activities are conducted by local residents, Ogi City, and various organizations. Through regular cleaning activities, water quality surveys, and environmental education, efforts continue to pass this precious natural heritage to future generations.
Visitors are also encouraged to take their trash with them and exercise consideration for the natural environment, with cooperation from visitors being an important element of Shimizugawa conservation.
Tourist Spots Around Shimizugawa
Erisanno Terraced Fields and Higanbana Flowers
The Erisanno terraced fields, about 15 minutes by car from Shimizugawa, boast beautiful scenery selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Terraced Fields. Particularly during the autumn equinox flower season, the deep crimson equinox flowers painting the terraced fields are magnificent, attracting many tourists and photography enthusiasts.
Visiting these terraced fields in combination with Shimizugawa tourism allows for a deeper experience of Ogi City’s natural attractions.
Tenzan Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.
Tenzan Sake Brewery, which produces sake utilizing the clear water of Shimizugawa, is one of Saga Prefecture’s leading Japanese sake makers. Japanese sake made with underground water from Mount Tenzan and Saga Prefecture-grown sake rice receives high praise nationwide.
Sake brewery tours are also available, allowing visitors to learn how the water of Shimizugawa is transformed into delicious Japanese sake. Tasting and purchases are possible, making it a recommended stop as a memento of your Shimizugawa tourism.
Suga Shrine
Suga Shrine in Ogi City has long collected faith as the local ujigami (tutelary deity). Festivals expressing gratitude for the blessings of Shimizugawa’s water are also held here, making it an interesting spot for learning about the region’s history and culture.
The grounds feature large trees with several hundred years of age, allowing visitors to worship in a quiet and solemn atmosphere.
Other Nearby Tourist Attractions
Ogi Park: Known as a cherry blossom viewing spot, approximately 3,000 cherry trees bloom brilliantly in spring.
Muraoka Sohonpo Yokan Museum: A museum where you can learn about the history of Ogi yokan, a local specialty.
Gion River: The Gion River, which merges with Shimizugawa, also has a well-maintained walking path and is especially recommended during firefly season.
Access and Transportation Information
Access by Car
From the Fukuoka area:
Approximately 10 minutes from Nagasaki Expressway “Ogi Smart IC”
Approximately 20 minutes from Nagasaki Expressway “Saga Yamato IC”
From the Nagasaki area:
Approximately 10 minutes from Nagasaki Expressway “Ogi Smart IC”
Shimizu Falls features a free parking area accommodating approximately 50 regular vehicles. Congestion may occur during tourist season and weekends, so visiting at an earlier time of day is recommended.
Access by Public Transportation
By JR:
Get off at “Ogi Station” on the JR Karatsu Line, then approximately 15 minutes by taxi
※Bus service from the station is limited, so taxi use is convenient.
From Saga Station:
Approximately 20 minutes to “Ogi Station” on the JR Karatsu Line, then approximately 15 minutes by taxi
Convenient Sightseeing Methods
Renting a car allows you to efficiently tour not only Shimizugawa but also nearby tourist attractions. Multiple car rental shops are available within Ogi City, and rentals are also possible around Saga Station.
A recommended one-day course combines Shimizu Falls → Tenzan Sake Brewery → Erisanno Terraced Fields → Ogi Park.
Best Seasons for Shimizugawa Tourism and How to Enjoy It
Spring (March to May)
The fresh green season shows Shimizugawa in its most vibrant form. With increased water volume from snowmelt, the power of Shimizu Falls also increases. Combining a visit with cherry blossoms at Ogi Park is recommended.
Summer (June to August)
Early summer offers firefly viewing, and summer brings many tourists seeking coolness. The area around Shimizu Falls is full of negative ions, offering a natural air-conditioning experience. Waterfall meditation experiences often take place during summer.
Autumn (September to November)
The autumn foliage season is the best season for Shimizugawa tourism. The autumn leaves around Shimizu Falls are particularly beautiful, and the equinox flowers at Erisanno Terraced Fields reach their peak in late September. The pleasant climate makes it ideal for walks.
Winter (December to February)
Though fewer tourists visit, you can enjoy the solitude and solemn atmosphere unique to winter. With luck, you may see Shimizu Falls transformed into an ice waterfall. Visit with proper cold weather preparation.
Precautions and Etiquette for Shimizugawa Tourism
Consideration for Environmental Conservation
To preserve the beautiful environment of Shimizugawa, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waters, please note the following:
- Always take your trash with you
- Do not throw objects into the river or falls
- Avoid entering areas outside designated zones
- Do not collect plants or animals
- Refrain from loud voices and noise
Safety Precautions
- The area around the falls has slippery footing, so wear appropriate shoes
- Do not approach during flooding or bad weather
- Swimming in the river is dangerous in some areas, so heed warning signs
- Keep a close eye on small children
Photography Etiquette
Shimizugawa and Shimizu Falls are excellent photography spots, but be considerate of other tourists and those performing spiritual training. If photographing someone performing waterfall meditation, be sure to obtain permission.
Regional Initiatives Utilizing Shimizugawa
Special Products Utilizing Water
The clear water of Shimizugawa is utilized in various local specialty products:
- Japanese sake: Fine sake from local breweries including Tenzan Sake Brewery
- Tofu: Tofu made with precious water has exceptional flavor
- Ogi Yokan: The water of Shimizugawa is used in the traditional confectionery production
- Carp cuisine: Carp raised in clean streams has no fishy smell and is exquisite
Environmental Education and Experience Programs
Ogi City implements environmental education programs utilizing Shimizugawa. Local elementary and junior high school students conduct water quality surveys and ecosystem observations, learning the importance of the natural environment.
Seasonal nature observation sessions and volunteer cleanup experiences are also offered for tourists, allowing for deeper engagement with Shimizugawa.
Initiatives for Sustainable Tourism
Ogi City and local residents undertake various initiatives to balance tourism with environmental conservation. These include enhanced tourism information, appropriate facility development, and reduction of environmental impact, with continued efforts to preserve a beautiful Shimizugawa for future generations.
Cuisine to Enjoy with Shimizugawa Tourism
Shimizu Carp Cuisine
Carp raised in the clean flow of Shimizugawa is a signature dish representing Ogi City. Various preparations are available, including “arai” (thinly sliced raw carp), carp soup, and simmered carp. Several restaurants near Shimizu Falls serve carp cuisine, with enjoying it alongside waterfall viewing being the standard course.
Ogi Yokan
Ogi City is nationally known as a yokan production area. Ogi yokan made using traditional methods is characterized by its unique texture with sugar crystals crystallizing on the surface. Established shops including Muraoka Sohonpo line the area, offering various types of yokan for purchase.
Local Sake and Japanese Sake
Tenzan Sake Brewery’s Japanese sake, made using underground water from Shimizugawa, receives high evaluation as a fine sake. Brands such as “Shichida” and “Iwa no Kura” are beloved by Japanese sake enthusiasts nationwide, and direct purchase at the brewery is possible.
Future Outlook for Shimizugawa
Shimizugawa is a precious natural asset and tourism resource for Ogi City in Saga Prefecture. Development as a sustainable tourist destination while preserving its value as Japan’s Top 100 Waters is anticipated.
Efforts by local residents, government, and tourism businesses working together to balance environmental conservation with tourism promotion could serve as a model for other regions. It is important that each of us who visit remember environmental consideration and pass this beautiful clear stream to future generations.
Shimizugawa is not merely a tourist spot but an entity deeply connected to the region’s history, culture, and life. By listening to the flow of clear water and touching the rich nature, it is a place that reminds us of the importance of harmony with nature, something easily forgotten in modern society.
When visiting Saga Prefecture, be sure to visit Shimizugawa and Shimizu Falls and experience the charm of Japan’s Top 100 Waters with all your senses.
