Complete Guide to Spring Water in Fukui Prefecture｜Thorough Explanation of All 34 Locations from the Hundred Selected Waters to Local Attractions
Fukui Prefecture is represented by the four-character idiom “Etsuzan Jakusui (越山若水),” indicating that it is a land blessed with lush mountains in the Echizen region and beautiful waters in the Wakasa region. With approximately 80% of its total area being mountainous terrain and characterized by heavy snowfall, Fukui Prefecture has become one of Japan’s most abundant water resources.
This article comprehensively introduces spring water spots throughout Fukui Prefecture, ranging from representative springs selected for the Ministry of the Environment’s “Showa-era Hundred Selected Waters” and “Heisei-era Hundred Selected Waters” to springs certified by Fukui’s own “Fukui’s Delicious Water” designation program.
Why Fukui Prefecture Has Abundant Spring Water
A Natural Water Storage System Created by Heavy Snowfall
Fukui Prefecture is known as one of Japan’s heaviest snowfall areas. The vast amount of snow that accumulates during winter slowly melts from spring through summer and is stored in the deep primeval forests that spread across the mountains. This natural storage system produces stable spring water flow throughout the year.
Clear Water Quality Nurtured by Mountainous Terrain
The mountains of Fukui Prefecture are covered with abundant forests, which function as a natural filter. As snowmelt and rainwater pass through soil layers over many years, impurities are removed, and mineral-rich, clear water emerges to the surface.
Diverse Spring Water Created by Geological Structure
Fukui Prefecture has a complex geology with various strata including limestone and volcanic rock layers. This geological diversity creates spring water with different characteristics depending on location.
Spring Water in Fukui Prefecture Selected for the Ministry of the Environment’s “Hundred Selected Waters”
Fukui Prefecture is home to multiple representative springs selected for the Ministry of the Environment’s “Showa-era Hundred Selected Waters” and “Heisei-era Hundred Selected Waters.” These are nationally recognized as having excellent conservation status and outstanding water quality and volume.
Showa-era Hundred Selected Waters (Selected in 1985)
Oshōzu (御清水) | Ōno City
“Oshōzu,” located in the center of Ōno City, is the most famous spring water representing Fukui Prefecture. It was selected for the “Showa-era Hundred Selected Waters” by the then-Environmental Agency (now the Ministry of the Environment) in 1985.
History and Origin
The history of Oshōzu dates back to 1575, when Kanemori Kanamori constructed Echizen Ōno Castle and valued it as a water source while developing the castle town. It was also called “Tono-sama Shimizu” (Lord’s Clear Water) because it was used by the feudal lord for cooking rice.
Current Usage
Even today, it remains deeply connected to the lives of local residents, and the “Shimizu-bata (清水端)” culture of cooling vegetables and fruits in the spring water continues to be passed down. The spring has a rich water flow, and the water temperature remains stable at approximately 12 degrees Celsius year-round.
Access Information
- Location: Izumi-cho, Ōno City, Fukui Prefecture
- About 10 minutes on foot from Echizen Ōno Castle
- Parking: Municipal parking lots nearby
- Access Restrictions: Permitted (visual inspection, proximity, touching)
Uriwarinofaki (瓜割の滝) | Wakasa Town
“Uriwarinofaki” at Tentokuji Temple in Wakasa Town is a spring named after the legend that “a melon splits from the cold.”
Name Origin and Legend
According to legend, when a melon was cooled in this spring water, it split from the extreme cold. In reality, the water temperature remains around 12 degrees Celsius year-round, and refreshingly cold water flows even in summer.
Natural Environment
The area surrounding Uriwarinofaki is surrounded by deep forest, creating a healing space full of negative ions. The spring discharges approximately 5,000 tons of water per day, boasting abundant water volume.
Access Information
- Location: Tentokuji, Mikatagamichu-gun, Wakasa Town, Fukui Prefecture
- About 10 minutes by car from Kaminaka Station on the JR Obama Line
- Parking: Available (free)
- Access Restrictions: Permitted (visual inspection, proximity, touching)
Unose (鵜の瀬) | Obama City
“Unose” at Jinguji Temple in Obama City is famous nationally for the “O-mizu okuri” water sending ritual to Nara’s Todaiji Temple.
Historical Significance
The “O-mizu okuri” ritual held annually on March 2 is a traditional ceremony paired with the “O-mizu tori” at Nara’s Todaiji Temple Nigatsu Hall. The water sent from Unose is said to arrive at the Wakasa Well (若狭井) of Todaiji Temple’s Nigatsu Hall ten days later on March 12. This ritual, with a history of over 1,200 years, is a precious cultural heritage transmitting Japan’s water faith to the present day.
Characteristics of the Spring Water
Located in the upper reaches of the Onyū River (遠敷川), it produces abundant clear water. The surrounding area has well-maintained walking paths, allowing visitors to enjoy nature throughout the four seasons.
Access Information
- Location: Jinguji, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture
- About 15 minutes by car from Higashi-Obama Station on the JR Obama Line
- Parking: Available
- Access Restrictions: Permitted (visual inspection, proximity)
Heisei-era Hundred Selected Waters (Selected in 2008)
Unjō-sui (雲城水) | Obama City
“Unjō-sui” in the Kumohama district of Obama City is known as a mysterious spring water that contains no salt despite being located near the coast.
Unique Location
Located only tens of meters from the sea, yet fresh water containing no salt whatsoever flows. This is due to the underground water vein structure and is geologically interesting.
Historical Background
Since the time of Wakasa Ōbama Castle (Kumohama Castle) and its castle town, it has been used as a precious water source for local residents. Currently, it is carefully preserved by the local community.
Access Information
- Location: Kumohama, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture
- About 15 minutes on foot from Obama Station on the JR Obama Line
- Access Restrictions: Permitted (visual inspection, proximity, touching)
Hongan Shimizu (本願清水) | Ōno City
“Hongan Shimizu” in Hongan Shimizu-cho, Ōno City is known as a spring where the rare freshwater fish Itoyо lives.
Habitat of Itoyо
Hongan Shimizu is home to Itoyо (landlocked type), designated as a critically endangered species on the Ministry of the Environment’s Red List. Itoyо can only survive in environments with low water temperature and clean water quality, proving the excellent water quality of Hongan Shimizu.
Community Involvement
Active preservation activities by local residents have resulted in its development as “Hongan Shimizu Itoyо no Sato.” An Itoyо observation facility is available and serves as an environmental education venue.
Access Information
- Location: Hongan Shimizu-cho, Ōno City, Fukui Prefecture
- About 20 minutes on foot from Echizen Ōno Station
- Parking: Available
- Access Restrictions: Permitted (visual inspection, proximity)
Kumakawa Juku Maegawa (熊川宿前川) | Wakasa Town
The “Maegawa” (前川) flowing through Kumakawa Station in Wakasa Town is a waterway that preserves the ambiance of an Edo-period inn town.
Historical Landscape
Kumakawa Station prospered as an inn town on the “Mackerel Road” (鯖街道) through which mackerel was transported from Wakasa to Kyoto. Maegawa has flowed along the main street of the inn town since ancient times and has been used as domestic water for residents.
Current Situation
Selected as a district with important traditional buildings for preservation, the landscape of Kumakawa Station, with the cool sounds and refreshing breeze brought by Maegawa, charms all visitors.
Access Information
- Location: Kumakawa, Mikatagamichu-gun, Wakasa Town, Fukui Prefecture
- About 10 minutes by car from Kaminaka Station on the JR Obama Line
- Parking: Kumakawa Station parking lot available
- Access Restrictions: Permitted (visual inspection, proximity)
Complete Overview of “Fukui’s Delicious Water” Certified Locations
Fukui Prefecture began the “Fukui’s Delicious Water” certification system in fiscal year 2005 to brand its water resources. As of August 2023, 34 springs throughout the prefecture have been certified.
Certification Standards
To be certified as “Fukui’s Delicious Water,” the following standards must be met:
- Water Quality for Direct Drinking: Water quality testing must meet drinking water standards
- Stable Water Volume: Consistent water volume must be ensured year-round
- Accessibility: The location must be accessible to the general public
- Conservation Status: Appropriate management and conservation must be conducted by the local community
List of “Fukui’s Delicious Water” Certified Locations by Region
Reinoku Region (Echizen Region)
Fukui City
- Asuwa Mountain Spring Water: Clear water flowing in Asuwa Mountain Park
- Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins Spring Water: Historic water that nurtured the Sengoku-period castle town
Ōno City
- Oshōzu (Hundred Selected Waters)
- Hongan Shimizu (Hundred Selected Waters)
- Serikawa Water: Clear stream flowing through the city
- Kiyotaki Water: Spring water in the Kiyotaki district
- Shinoza Shrine Divine Water: Sacred spring at the shrine
Katsuyama City
- Bentensaku Clear Water: Spring water flowing near the cherry blossom scenic spot
- Heisenji Hakusan Shrine Temizuike: Sacred water at the Hakusan faith holy site
Sabae City
- Ōyama Kofun Group Spring Water: Clear water around the ancient burial mounds
- Funazu Shrine Spring Water: Sacred spring at the shrine
Awara City
- Kitakata Lake Park Spring Water: Clear water flowing near the lake
Echizen City
- Ōtaki Shrine Divine Water: Sacred spring at the shrine dedicated to the paper deity
- Ajimano Clear Water: Water flowing in the land of the Manyō
Sakai City
- Maruoka Castle Spring Water: Water source of the castle with an existing main tower
- Mikuni Port Spring Water: Water supporting the port town
Eiheiji Town
- Eiheiji Spring Water: Sacred spring of the Soto Zen head temple
- Yoshimine Temple Spring Water: Clear water in the ancient temple
Ikeda Town
- Ryusō Falls Water: Water source of one of Fukui’s most famous waterfalls
- Inari Clear Water: Spring water supporting mountain village communities
Minamiechizen Town
- Imajō Station Spring Water: Water source of the North Hokuriku Road inn town
Reinан Region (Wakasa Region)
Obama City
- Unose (Hundred Selected Waters)
- Unjō-sui (Hundred Selected Waters)
- Jinguji Aka Water: Sacred water used in the O-mizu okuri ritual
- Tadaji Temple Spring Water: Clear water in the ancient temple
Wakasa Town
- Uriwarinofaki (Hundred Selected Waters)
- Kumakawa Juku Maegawa (Hundred Selected Waters)
- Mikatagogo Spring Water: Water around the Ramsar Convention registered wetland
- Torihama Shell Mound Spring Water: Spring water around the Jomon archaeological site
Mihama Town
- Kugushi Lake Spring Water: Clear water around Kugushi Lake, one of the Five Lakes
- Hayase Spring Water: Fresh water spring near the coast
Takahama Town
- Aoba Mountain Spring Water: Water from the sacred peak called Wakasa Fuji
- Meikyōdō Spring Water: Spring water around the sea cave
Ōi Town
- Saburi River Headwaters: Spring water becoming the source of the clear stream
- Hongō Spring Water: Water source of the mountain village community
Industry and Culture Using Fukui Prefecture’s Spring Water
Sake Brewing and Spring Water
Fukui Prefecture is known as a premium sake production region, with sake breweries throughout the prefecture using local spring water as brewing water. Sake breweries in Ōno City and Katsuyama City particularly earn high evaluations for sake production utilizing abundant, clear spring water.
Representative Sake Breweries and Their Water Sources
- Manazuru Sake Brewery (Ōno City): Groundwater near Oshōzu
- Ipponyogi Kubo Honten (Katsuyama City): Hakusan water system base flow
- Kokuryu Sake Brewery (Yoshida District): Kuzuryu River water system groundwater
Traditional Confectionery Making and Spring Water
Fukui Prefecture’s traditional confectionery culture also has deep ties with spring water. Particularly in Ōno City and Obama City, the tradition of making Japanese confections using local spring water is passed down.
Confectionery Products Using Spring Water
- Habutae Mochi: Fukui Prefecture’s representative specialty confectionery
- Mizu Yōkan: Winter seasonal specialty unique to Fukui
- Kuzu Manjū: Summer cooling confection popular across the region
Agriculture and Spring Water
Fukui Prefecture’s agriculture, particularly rice cultivation, is supported by abundant spring water. Rice paddies using spring water maintain stable water temperature and are suitable for producing high-quality rice.
Agricultural Products Using Spring Water
- Ōno City Taro: Unique flavor from washing in spring water
- Echizen Oroshi Soba: Soba noodles made with clear water
- Wakasa Ume: Pickled plums made using spring water
Shimizu-bata (清水端) Culture
Centered in Ōno City, the unique “Shimizu-bata” culture of cooling vegetables and fruits in spring water continues to exist today. This is a life wisdom passed down from the era before refrigeration and is still practiced in many households.
Spring Water Conservation Activities in Fukui Prefecture
Conservation Activities by Local Residents
Most spring water in Fukui Prefecture is protected through voluntary conservation efforts by local residents. Regular cleaning activities, water quality testing, and surrounding environmental maintenance continue as ongoing efforts.
Main Conservation Groups
- Ōno City Spring Water Conservation Society
- Hongan Shimizu Itoyо Village Preservation Society
- Kumakawa Station Town Development Council
- Uriwarinofaki Named Water Preservation Society
Fukui Prefecture’s Initiatives
Fukui Prefecture promotes spring water conservation and utilization through the “Fukui’s Delicious Water” certification system. The prefecture also provides support for water quality testing and conservation activities.
Prefecture’s Main Initiatives
- Water quality monitoring implementation
- Support for conservation activity groups
- Spring water map creation and distribution
- Environmental education program implementation
Application in Environmental Education
Schools throughout the prefecture conduct environmental education using local spring water as subject matter. Students visit spring water sites and learn the importance of environmental conservation through water quality surveys and biological observation.
Precautions When Visiting Fukui Prefecture’s Spring Water
Cautions Regarding Drinking Water
Even at “Fukui’s Delicious Water” certified locations, observe the following precautions when drinking:
- Verify Latest Water Quality Information: Water quality may change after heavy rain
- Boiling Recommended: Even if designated as safe for raw consumption, boil if concerned about health
- Keep Containers Clean: Use clean containers when collecting water
- Avoid Long Storage: Use collected water promptly
Manners and Rules
When visiting spring water sites, observe these guidelines:
- Take Litter with You: Keep spring water areas clean
- Be Aware of Private Property: Do not enter areas marked off-limits
- Avoid Large-Scale Water Collection: Remember local residents depend on this water
- Respect the Surrounding Environment: Do not pick plants or disturb ecosystems
- Follow Parking Etiquette: Use designated parking areas
Access Restrictions
The Ministry of the Environment classifies access restrictions as follows:
- ☆: Permitted (visual inspection, proximity, touching)
- ◎: Permitted (visual inspection, proximity)
- ○: Permitted (visual inspection only)
- ×: Not permitted
- ―: Unknown
It is recommended to verify the access restrictions of each spring water before visiting.
Model Routes for Fukui Prefecture Spring Water Tours
Ōno City Spring Water Tour (Half-Day Course)
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
- Echizen Ōno Castle (9:00-10:00): Famous as “castle in the sky”
- Oshōzu (10:10-10:40): Hundred Selected Waters famous as Lord’s Clear Water
- Serikawa Riverside Walks (10:40-11:20): Clear stream through the city
- Hongan Shimizu Itoyо Village (11:30-12:30): Itoyо observation and spring water viewing
- Lunch (12:30-13:30): Local cuisine using spring water
Wakasa Region Spring Water Tour (Full-Day Course)
Duration: Approximately 8 hours
- Uriwarinofaki (9:00-10:30): Representative Hundred Selected Waters
- Kumakawa Station Tour (11:00-13:00): Inn town landscape and Maegawa scenery
- Lunch (13:00-14:00): Cuisine related to the Mackerel Road at Kumakawa Station
- Unose (14:30-15:30): Famous for the O-mizu okuri ritual
- Unjō-sui (16:00-16:30): Mysterious fresh water by the sea
- Obama City Stroll (16:30-17:30): Experience Wakasa history
Reinoku Vertical Spring Water Tour (Full-Day Course)
Duration: Approximately 8 hours
- Heisenji Hakusan Shrine (9:00-10:30): Moss shrine and Temizuike
- Ōno City Spring Water Tour (11:00-13:30): Oshōzu, Hongan Shimizu, and more
- Lunch (13:30-14:30): Ōno spring water cuisine
- Eiheiji (15:00-16:30): Zen monastery sacred water
- Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins (17:00-18:00): Sengoku-period castle town spring water
Enjoying Fukui Prefecture’s Spring Water Throughout the Four Seasons
Spring (March-May)
O-mizu okuri Ritual (March 2)
A traditional ceremony held at Unose in Obama City. Torchlight creates an enchanting atmosphere.
Snowmelt Season
Winter’s heavy snow melts, making spring water volume at its most abundant. The forceful flow of water is impressive.
Summer (June-August)
Seeking Cool Refreshment
Spring water sites surrounded by forest like Uriwarinofaki function as nature’s air conditioning. Water around 12 degrees Celsius provides summer relief.
Itoyо Breeding Period
Hongan Shimizu offers a rare opportunity to observe Itoyо spawning behavior.
Autumn (September-November)
Autumn Leaves and Spring Water
The surrounding mountains turn colors. Autumn leaves reflected in clear water create scenic beauty.
New Rice Season
Fukui rice grown with spring water appears on markets. Enjoy the blessing of spring water.
Winter (December-February)
Snowy Landscape and Spring Water
Steaming spring water in snow-covered scenery is fantastical. Note that heavy snow may make some locations difficult to visit.
Mizu Yōkan
Fukui’s unique winter specialty. Mizu yōkan made with spring water is a winter delicacy enjoyed by kotatsu.
Fukui Prefecture Spring Water Maps and Nearby Attractions
Digital Map Usage
Fukui Prefecture and the Ministry of the Environment websites publish digital maps with spring water location information. Smartphone access allows easy searching for nearest springs from your current location.
Attractions to Visit Alongside Spring Water
Around Ōno City
- Echizen Ōno Castle: Popular “castle in the sky”
- Teramachi Street: Atmospheric temple district
- Shichiken Morning Market: 400-year-old market
Wakasa Region
- Mikatagogo: Ramsar Convention registered wetland
- Sōdōmon: Japan Sea scenic rock formations
- Wakasa Bay Beaches: Highly transparent ocean
Around Fukui City
- Ichijodani Asakura Clan Ruins: Sengoku-period castle town remains
- Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum: One of world’s three major dinosaur museums
- Tōjinbō: Nationally designated natural monument cliff
Comparison with Named Waters in Other Prefectures
Fukui Prefecture’s spring water possesses unique characteristics compared to other prefectures.
Comparison with Toyama Prefecture
Neighboring Toyama Prefecture is also famous as a water resource treasure, but Toyama features snowmelt from the Tateyama Range. Fukui’s heavy Japan Sea snow and diverse geological structure create more varied spring water characteristics.
Comparison with Gifu Prefecture
Gifu’s spring water is strongly influenced by the Hida Mountains, while Fukui forms a unique water system influenced by both the Hakusan range and the Wakasa Bay coast.
Comparison with Shiga Prefecture
Compared to Shiga Prefecture possessing Lake Biwa, Fukui has more abundant springs and rivers than lakes. Wakasa region springs particularly feature the distinctive characteristic of fresh water despite proximity to the sea.
Conclusion: Passing Fukui Prefecture’s Spring Water Culture to the Future
Fukui Prefecture’s spring water is not merely a water resource but culture itself nurtured over long history. From the six representative springs selected for the Showa-era and Heisei-era Hundred Selected Waters to the 34 locations certified by Fukui’s own “Fukui’s Delicious Water” program, each is deeply connected to regional history and culture.
The “Shimizu-bata” culture of Oshōzu, the O-mizu okuri ritual of Unose, and the Itoyо protection activities at Hongan Shimizu represent important conservation efforts passing spring water to future generations.
When visiting Fukui Prefecture, be sure to visit these spring water spots and experience the blessing of clear water and the livelihood of those who continue preserving it. Fukui’s spring water, harmonizing abundant natural environment with historical culture, offers visitors profound emotion and healing.
Currently, climate change and urbanization threaten nationwide reduction in spring water volume and quality degradation. Preserving Fukui’s spring water for the future requires each of us to recognize environmental conservation importance and take action. When visiting springs, observe proper manners and show appreciation for community conservation efforts, ensuring this precious water resource passes to future generations.
