Complete Guide to Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing | A Famous Water Spring in Iwate Selected as One of the Heisei’s 100 Best Waters
“Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing” located in Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture, is a spring water spot representing the Tohoku region that was selected for the Heisei’s 100 Best Waters. Locally known as “hyakko water” (cold water), it attracts many people from within and outside the prefecture to draw water due to its abundant spring water volume and high transparency.
This article provides detailed explanations of information you should know before visiting the site, including the charm of Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing, access methods, water-drawing tips, and nearby tourist information.
What is Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing?
Selected as One of the Heisei’s 100 Best Waters
Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing is a valuable spring water selected from Iwate Prefecture as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s “Heisei’s 100 Best Waters.” The Heisei’s 100 Best Waters selects excellent springs and rivers where water environment conservation activities are implemented by local residents in a proactive and sustainable manner and are integrated into the community’s daily life, with 150 locations selected nationwide.
The Sukawa-dake secret water was selected on June 2008 (Heisei 20) for its abundant spring water volume, high transparency, and conservation activities carried out by local residents.
Origin of “Hyakko Water”
It is locally affectionately known as “hyakko water.” “Hyakkoi” is a northeastern Japanese dialect word meaning “cold.” Water gushing from the lush beech forests of Sukawa-dake is extremely cold at around 10°C year-round, maintaining its coldness even in the height of summer.
This coldness is a major characteristic of Sukawa-dake secret water and is the reason many people especially visit during hot seasons.
Water Quality and Characteristics of Sukawa-dake Secret Water
Natural Water Nurtured by Lush Beech Forests
Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing is, as its name suggests, natural water nurtured by the lush beech forests surrounding Sukawa-dake. Rain and snow that fall on Sukawa-dake, which stands at an elevation of 1,626 meters, seep through the forest soil over many years and gush forth as clear water filtered naturally.
Beech forests are also called “green dams” and possess abundant water retention capacity. The layer of leaf litter accumulated from fallen beech leaves acts like a sponge to store water and allows it to slowly infiltrate underground over time. Through this process, the water is naturally filtered and becomes clear water containing mineral content.
Smooth and Soft Water with Pleasant Taste
The greatest characteristic of Sukawa-dake secret water is its smooth, pleasant taste. Being soft water with low hardness, it is flavorless and easy to drink. With water quality suited to Japanese palates, it is suitable not only for drinking as-is but also for tea, coffee, and cooking.
Soft water pairs well with Japanese cuisine and is ideal for bringing out the umami of dashi. Additionally, when used for cooking rice, the rice cooks fluffy, and when brewing tea, the tea leaves’ flavor is preserved and finishes deliciously.
Abundant Spring Water Volume and High Transparency
Sukawa-dake secret water has an extremely abundant volume of spring water, gushing forth stably year-round without drying up. This abundant water volume is evidence of the high water retention capacity of the vast beech forests surrounding Sukawa-dake.
The high transparency is also noteworthy. The water flowing from the spring source is remarkably clear, allowing visibility to the bottom of the water. This high transparency speaks to water quality.
Access Methods to Sukawa-dake Secret Water
Location and Basic Information
Location: Within the state forest of Iwamori, Shionomatsu-cho, Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture
Accessible Period: Late April to early November (Road closed in winter, access prohibited)
Parking: Available (free)
Fee: Free (water drawing allowed)
Access by Car
Car access is the most convenient method to Sukawa-dake secret water.
From Tohoku Expressway:
- From Ichinoseki IC via National Route 342 toward Sukawa Highland approximately 40km (approximately 60 minutes)
- From Wakayanagi-Kanari IC via National Route 342 toward Sukawa Highland approximately 45km (approximately 70 minutes)
From Major Cities:
- From Morioka City approximately 90km (approximately 2 hours)
- From Sendai City approximately 120km (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes)
The water-drawing site is located along the mountain road on National Route 342 heading toward Sukawa Highland Hot Spring, just before the hot spring. Signboards are posted along the road, making it a relatively easy location to find.
Access by Public Transportation
Access by public transportation is limited.
When using JR:
- Get off at “Ichinoseki Station” on the JR Tohoku Main Line
- Board the bus bound for Sukawa Highland Hot Spring (seasonal operation) from Ichinoseki Station
- Get off at the Sukawa-dake secret water water-drawing site
However, bus operation is only during the summer tourist season with limited frequency, so it is recommended to confirm the operation schedule in advance. Using a rental car is more reliable.
Note on Winter Road Closure
The National Route 342 leading to Sukawa-dake secret water is closed during winter (mid-November to late April) due to snow accumulation. The accessible period varies by year, so please confirm the latest information on the Ichinoseki City or road management authority website before your visit.
Water-Drawing Tips and Precautions
Equipment at the Water-Drawing Site
The water-drawing site of Sukawa-dake secret water has equipment set up for drawing water. A water outlet is provided where spring water flows, where you can place a container and draw water.
There are parking spaces around the water-drawing site where several cars can park. However, during weekends and holiday seasons, many people visit and it can become crowded. Use the facility with a spirit of consideration for others.
Essential Items for Water Drawing
Essential Items:
- Clean container (water container, plastic bottle, etc.)
- Towel (for wiping up spilled water)
Convenient to Have:
- Work gloves (for handling cold water)
- Watering can (to improve ease of pouring into containers)
- Cooler box (for temperature management during transport)
- Plastic bags (for storing wet containers)
It is important to wash containers in advance and keep them in a clean state. Also, be careful about your vehicle’s weight capacity if drawing a large amount of water.
Water Storage Methods and Expiration
Sukawa-dake secret water is a natural spring and has not undergone sterilization treatment such as chlorination. Therefore, attention must be paid to storage methods.
Storage Tips:
- Store drawn water in a cool, dark place
- Storage in a refrigerator is preferable
- Use up water soon after opening (within 2-3 days is the guideline)
- Boiling before use is even safer
Even though the spring is selected as one of the Ministry of the Environment’s 100 Best Waters, it does not guarantee suitability for drinking. If consuming as drinking water, it is recommended to boil it or confirm water quality with local authorities such as Ichinoseki City.
Etiquette and Precautions
Let us follow the following etiquette to preserve Sukawa-dake secret water for the long term.
Etiquette to Observe:
- Always take trash with you
- Do not pollute the area around the water-drawing site
- Show consideration to other users (avoid monopolizing for long periods)
- Follow parking rules
- Treasure the natural environment
This valuable water source is protected by the efforts of local residents and conservation groups. By each visitor observing proper etiquette, we can pass on this wonderful spring water to future generations.
Tourist Spots Around Sukawa-dake Secret Water
Sukawa Highland Hot Spring
Located about 10 minutes by car from Sukawa-dake secret water, Sukawa Highland Hot Spring is a hidden hot spring situated at an elevation of 1,126 meters on a highland plateau. It is also a member of the Japan Association to Preserve Japanese Hot Springs and is popular for its open-air bath surrounded by magnificent nature.
The spring quality is a strongly acidic sulfur spring, characterized by milky white hot water. It is also used as a base for climbing Sukawa-dake, and is bustling with climbers and tourists. Day-trip bathing is also available, making it a recommended stop after drawing water.
Sukawa-dake (Kurikoma-dake) Climbing
Sukawa-dake is the name used for Kurikoma-dake on the Iwate Prefecture side, an active volcano with an elevation of 1,626 meters. A climbing course from Sukawa Highland Hot Spring to the mountain peak takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and is popular as a beginner to intermediate level route.
From the summit, you can enjoy majestic views spanning three prefectures: Iwate, Miyagi, and Akita. Especially during the autumn foliage season (late September to early October), the entire mountain turns red and yellow, revealing a spectacular view called the “Carpet of God.”
Genbi Gorge
Genbi Gorge, a representative scenic spot in Ichinoseki City, is located about 40 minutes by car from Sukawa-dake secret water. This is a 2-kilometer-long gorge formed by the erosion of the Banei River and is designated as a National Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument.
The scenery of successive odd rocks, strange rocks, deep pools, and potholes is spectacular and offers beautiful sights throughout the four seasons. The famous “flying dumplings” is a unique experience where dumplings and tea are delivered from a shop across the way using a rope.
Shinobazu Gorge
Shinobazu Gorge, counted as one of Japan’s 100 Scenic Spots, is located about 50 minutes by car from Sukawa-dake secret water. This is a 2-kilometer-long limestone gorge with cliffs exceeding 50 meters in height along the Kurogane River.
Boat rides are the main attraction, where you ride a boat operated by a boatman using only a pole. The 90-minute round-trip allows you to enjoy the seasonal beauty of the gorge while listening to the boatman’s rendition of “Geibi Oiwake” folk song.
Conservation Activities at Sukawa-dake Secret Water
Conservation Efforts by Local Residents
Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing is protected by continuous conservation activities by local residents and conservation groups. Regular cleaning activities around the water-drawing site and protection activities of the beech forests that serve as the water source are carried out.
Ichinoseki City and local environmental conservation groups regularly conduct water quality tests to maintain water quality. Through signboard installation and information dissemination, awareness-raising activities for visitor etiquette are also conducted, calling for sustainable use.
Responsibility as One of the Heisei’s 100 Best Waters
Selection as one of the Heisei’s 100 Best Waters is not merely an honor but comes with the responsibility of conserving the water environment. The conservation group for Sukawa-dake secret water has launched more proactive conservation activities taking this selection as an opportunity.
It is also utilized as a site for environmental education, with local elementary school students participating in water quality surveys and cleaning activities, working to pass environmental awareness to the next generation.
Best Seasons to Visit Sukawa-dake Secret Water
Spring (Late April to June)
Roads open with the melting snow, welcoming the season of fresh greenery. Young beech leaves are beautiful, and water drawing can be enjoyed in refreshing air. However, from late April to early May, temperatures are still low and protective clothing is necessary.
Summer (July to August)
This is the most visited season. Cold spring water is exceptional during hot weather, and the true value of “hyakko water” can be fully appreciated. Combined enjoyment of Sukawa Highland Hot Spring and climbing is also possible. Congestion is expected, so early morning visits are recommended.
Autumn (September to October)
The autumn foliage season is when the Sukawa-dake area is most beautiful. Drawing water while viewing colorfully tinted mountains becomes a particularly special experience. Late September to early October is the peak of autumn foliage with many tourists visiting.
Winter Road Closure
From mid-November through late April, roads are closed due to snow accumulation. Sukawa-dake secret water cannot be accessed during this period, so exercise caution when planning your visit.
Summary: The Charm of Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing
Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing is a famous water spring in Iwate Prefecture selected for the Heisei’s 100 Best Waters. Natural water nurtured by lush beech forests is smooth and pleasant to taste, and is affectionately known locally as “hyakko water.”
Its characteristics are coldness of around 10°C year-round, abundant spring water volume, and high transparency. It attracts many people from within and outside the prefecture to draw water. The surrounding area is rich with attractive tourist spots including Sukawa Highland Hot Spring, Sukawa-dake climbing, Genbi Gorge, and Shinobazu Gorge.
When visiting, be careful to note the winter road closure period and prepare a container for drawing water. It is also important to follow etiquette and cooperate in environmental conservation efforts to pass on this valuable water source to future generations.
When visiting Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture, be sure to stop by Sukawa-dake Secret Water Buna’s Blessing and experience the deliciousness of natural water nurtured by beech forests.
