Complete Guide to “Uchinuki” in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture | The Charm and History of Artesian Water Selected as One of Japan’s Top 100 Waters
When you visit Saijo City in Ehime Prefecture, you encounter clear water gushing forth from various locations throughout the city. This natural blessing is called “uchinuki,” artesian water. Saijo City is an extremely rare artesian groundwater area in Japan, and due to the excellent water quality, it has been selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Waters.” This article provides a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of uchinuki, from its history and mechanisms to spots that should definitely be visited, covering everything about this representative water of Ehime Prefecture.
What is “Uchinuki”?
“Uchinuki” refers to artesian wells of groundwater found throughout the former Saijo City area in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture. It is a phenomenon where groundwater naturally springs forth simply by driving an iron pipe 15 to 30 meters into the ground.
Artesian wells are distributed over a wide area within Saijo City, and there are said to be approximately 2,000 to 3,000 confirmed springs. From this remarkable number of artesian wells, the daily discharge volume reaches approximately 90,000 to 130,000 cubic meters.
This abundant groundwater is widely used as domestic water, agricultural water, and industrial water, serving as an important water resource supporting the lives of Saijo City residents. The water temperature shows little seasonal change, maintaining approximately 14 to 16 degrees Celsius year-round, which is also a major characteristic.
Origin of the Name “Uchinuki”
The name “uchinuki” comes from this unique method. The name was given because groundwater can be obtained by “punching through” (uchinuku) the ground with a specially processed steel pipe. This traditional method was passed down from the mid-Edo period until around 1945, becoming a term symbolizing Saijo’s water culture.
The Mechanism Behind Uchinuki in Saijo City
Abundant Water Sources from the Ishizuchi Mountain Range
Saijo City is home to Mount Ishizuchi (1,982 meters elevation), the highest peak in western Japan, to the south, and faces the Seto Inland Sea to the north. This geographic condition is a crucial factor creating uchinuki.
The plains area of Saijo City has a typical Seto Inland Sea maritime climate with annual rainfall of approximately 1,400 millimeters, which is relatively low. However, the mountainous areas of the Ishizuchi Mountain Range receive 3,000 millimeters or more of rain—two to three times that amount. This abundant precipitation is stored in the Ishizuchi Mountain Range, becoming the source of groundwater.
Geological Structure Allowing Groundwater to Spring Forth
Rain falling on the Ishizuchi Mountain Range permeates the ground during its flow as rivers such as the Kamo River. Beneath the Saijo Plain lies a highly permeable layer of sand and gravel, with an impermeable clay layer beneath it.
Groundwater flowing from the mountains passes through this sand and gravel layer and accumulates beneath the Saijo Plain. Due to the elevation difference between the mountain side and the sea side, pressure is applied to the groundwater, and when a pipe is driven in, water naturally springs forth due to this pressure. This structure is called confined groundwater, representing a natural blessing created by Saijo City’s unique topography and geology.
What is “Japan’s Top 100 Waters”?
Selection for Japan’s Top 100 Waters
In 1985 (Showa 60), the Ministry of the Environment (formerly the Environment Agency) selected 100 outstanding springs and rivers across Japan as “Japan’s Top 100 Waters.” Saijo City’s “uchinuki” was selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waters in this inaugural selection.
Japan’s Top 100 Waters are evaluated from perspectives including water quality, water volume, accessibility to water, and conservation activities, with water environments beloved by local residents being selected. Uchinuki was highly evaluated for its abundant water volume, excellent water quality, and water culture deeply rooted in the community.
Victory in the National Water Tasting Competition
Furthermore, in 1995 (Heisei 7) and 1996 (Heisei 8), at the National Water Tasting Competition held in Ibigawa Town, Gifu Prefecture, uchinuki achieved the remarkable feat of being selected as Japan’s number one “delicious water” for two consecutive years.
This result proved that uchinuki is not merely “fine water” but water of the highest level in terms of taste. The evaluation was obtained through rigorous judging by experts and general participants, making this result a significant one that brought uchinuki’s high water quality to the nation’s attention.
How Do “Fine Waters” and “Delicious Water” Differ?
Definition of Fine Water
“Fine water” refers to water with good quality that is deeply connected to a region’s history and culture. To be selected for the Ministry of the Environment’s Top 100 Waters, water must not only have good quality but also be beloved by local residents and have conservation activities in place, which are important elements.
Fine water is not necessarily suitable for drinking, and evaluation may sometimes be from perspectives of landscape and ecosystem conservation. In fact, the Ministry of the Environment explicitly states that it does not guarantee that water selected for the Top 100 Waters is suitable for drinking.
Requirements for Delicious Water
On the other hand, “delicious water” has scientific standards. According to requirements established by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare’s “Delicious Water Research Group,” delicious water has the following characteristics:
- Appropriate mineral content (calcium, magnesium, etc.)
- Appropriate hardness (approximately 10-100 mg/L)
- Free carbon dioxide (3-30 mg/L)
- Low potassium permanganate consumption (3 mg/L or less)
- Low odor degree
- Water temperature of 20 degrees Celsius or lower
Uchinuki meets these requirements at a high level, possessing the fortunate condition of being both fine water and delicious water simultaneously. It maintains an appropriate year-round water temperature of 14-16 degrees Celsius and contains appropriate mineral content derived from the Ishizuchi Mountain Range, which contributes to its excellent taste.
History of Uchinuki and Regional Culture
Traditional Methods from the Edo Period
The uchinuki method is said to have begun in the mid-Edo period. Initially, simple methods using bamboo or wood were used, but from the Meiji period onward, iron pipes came into use, allowing more efficient groundwater extraction.
This method was passed down in the region until around 1945, supporting the lives of Saijo City residents. Even in modern times with developed tap water systems, many households and businesses continue to use uchinuki, remaining central to Saijo City’s water culture.
Saijo: The Water City
Known as the “Water City,” Saijo City is blessed with abundant groundwater. Walking through the city, you can see uchinuki water gushing forth and water channels flowing everywhere.
This water abundance has greatly contributed to Saijo City’s industrial development. Industries requiring high-quality water, such as sake brewing, food processing, and precision machinery manufacturing, have developed and supported the regional economy. Saijo sake in particular is brewed using uchinuki water and is known for its excellent taste.
Where Can You See “Uchinuki”? Recommended Spots
1. JR Iyo-Saijo Station
The most convenient place to experience uchinuki is JR Iyo-Saijo Station. Uchinuki is installed on the station platform, allowing anyone to freely enjoy the fine water. It’s a rare spot where you can savor Saijo’s water while waiting for a train.
2. Aquatopia Water System
The “Aquatopia Water System” flowing through the center of Saijo City is a waterfront space symbolizing the Water City of Saijo. Clear streams and beautiful scenery continue for approximately 2.4 kilometers westward from JR Iyo-Saijo Station.
The Aquatopia Water System has the following points of interest:
- Fountains and water fountains: Installed on the west side of the General Culture Hall, where you can drink uchinuki
- Firefly sanctuary: An environment preserving fireflies that indicate good water quality
- Water stage: A performance space where you can enjoy interaction with water
- Waterfront decks and walking trails: Well-maintained paths ideal for strolling
3. Uchinuki Plaza
Uchinuki Plaza is a representative spot to experience Saijo City’s fine water culture. Here you can actually see water gushing from uchinuki and can take water home in PET bottles or other containers. It has become a popular spot for both local residents and tourists.
4. Moated Area Around Former Jinya Site
The moat remaining around the former Saijo feudal domain’s administrative headquarters is fed by uchinuki water. This beautiful spot harmonizes historical scenery with clear water, allowing you to experience both Saijo’s history and water culture.
5. Kobo Water
“Kobo Water” is another renowned uchinuki spot with legends related to Kobo Daishi (Kukai). According to local tradition, water gushed forth where Kobo Daishi struck his staff, and it has been cherished as an object of faith.
6. General Culture Hall and Surroundings
The area west of Saijo City’s General Culture Hall has been developed with a water system utilizing uchinuki. This precious space for interacting with water in the city center has become a place of relaxation for residents.
7. Kairo Furukawa Tamatsu Bridge Street
Along Kairo Furukawa Tamatsu Bridge Street, water landscapes utilizing uchinuki have been developed. This beautiful street where street trees and clear streams harmonize is recommended for strolling.
Saijo Water Tour
For those wanting to learn more deeply about uchinuki, the “Saijo Water Tour” is recommended. This is a guided tour around the Aquaroute area lasting approximately 2 hours, with a fee of 1,000 yen (including light refreshments and guide service).
On the tour, a professional guide provides detailed explanations of uchinuki’s history and mechanisms, as well as Saijo’s water culture. You can efficiently visit major uchinuki spots and learn about points of interest that individuals might miss.
Reservation is required by 12:00 two days before your visit, so if you’re planning to visit, it’s recommended to contact the Saijo City Tourism and Products Association in advance.
Water Quality and Safety of Uchinuki
Strict Water Quality Management
Uchinuki water is clean groundwater filtered by the natural environment of the Ishizuchi Mountain Range. As it flows deep underground over long periods, it passes through natural filters that remove impurities.
Saijo City regularly conducts water quality inspections to confirm that water suitable for drinking is maintained. However, privately owned uchinuki outside public water fountains may have different management conditions, so caution is necessary when drinking.
Precautions When Drinking
Just because uchinuki has been selected for the Ministry of the Environment’s Top 100 Waters does not mean all uchinuki is necessarily suitable for drinking. Please note the following:
- Drink from public water fountains established for drinking purposes
- Obtain the owner’s permission for privately owned uchinuki
- If concerned, boil water before drinking
- Use clean containers when drawing water into PET bottles
When visiting Saijo City, it is recommended to use publicly managed water fountains or uchinuki developed as tourist attractions.
Industries and Regional Development Utilizing Uchinuki
Sake Brewing Industry
Saijo City is known as one of Ehime Prefecture’s leading sake regions. Nationally acclaimed sake brands such as “Ishizuchi” and “Kagiya” are produced, and uchinuki water is used in their brewing.
Sake quality is greatly influenced by water quality. Uchinuki water contains appropriate minerals and is low in iron and organic substances, making it ideal for sake brewing. This high-quality water supports the excellent taste of Saijo sake.
Food Industry
Uchinuki water is utilized in the production of many food items, including tofu, noodles, and confectionery. In the food manufacturing industry where water taste directly influences product taste, the existence of uchinuki is a significant competitive advantage.
Utilization as Tourist Resource
Uchinuki is positioned as an important tourist resource for Saijo City. It has established the “Water City” brand image, attracting many tourists.
Development of tourism routes themed around water, holding of water-related events, and development of specialty products utilizing water are among the regional revitalization efforts centered on uchinuki.
Conservation Activities for Uchinuki
Importance of Groundwater Conservation
To pass the blessing of uchinuki to future generations, conservation of groundwater resources is essential. Saijo City is implementing the following initiatives:
- Protection and development of water source conservation forests
- Promotion of appropriate groundwater use
- Strengthening of water quality monitoring systems
- Public awareness activities
Conservation Activities with Citizen Participation
Saijo City residents cherish uchinuki as a community treasure. Conservation activities at the citizen level, such as cleaning activities, cooperation with water quality surveys, and water conservation practices, are well-established.
Additionally, schools provide opportunities to learn about uchinuki, and programs are in place for children to understand their region’s water culture and develop conservation awareness.
Access to Saijo City
By Train
- Get off at “Iyo-Saijo Station” on the JR Yosan Line
- Approximately 40 minutes by express from Matsuyama Station, approximately 1 hour by local train
- Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by express from Takamatsu Station
By Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Iyo-Saijo IC” on the Matsuyama Expressway to the city center
- Approximately 50 minutes from Matsuyama City via National Route 11
By Airplane
- Approximately 40 minutes by car from Matsuyama Airport
- Approximately 1 hour from Matsuyama Airport to Saijo City by limousine bus
Summary
“Uchinuki” in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture, is artesian water that naturally springs forth from abundant groundwater brought by the Ishizuchi Mountain Range, making it an extremely rare phenomenon in Japan. Selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waters and winning two consecutive victories as Japan’s number one in the National Water Tasting Competition, its water quality truly represents Japan’s finest water.
Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 uchinuki springs throughout the city are produced through traditional methods passed down since the Edo period and continue to support the essential resources for residents’ lives, industry, and culture in modern times.
You can experience uchinuki in various forms in Saijo City, from easily enjoying it from the platform of JR Iyo-Saijo Station, to appreciating beautiful water landscapes in the Aquatopia Water System, to experiencing water drawing at Uchinuki Plaza.
Why not embark on a trip to the Water City of Saijo to taste Japan’s most delicious natural spring water and experience its rich water culture? The sound of clear water gushing forth, the taste of cold, pure water, and the lives of people living with water—here lies the harmony with nature that modern society has begun to forget.
Uchinuki is not merely a tourist resource but a source of pride for Saijo City residents and a precious natural heritage to be passed on to future generations. To continue protecting this wonderful water blessing, it is important that we visitors interact with it while maintaining conservation awareness.
