💧 Oshino Hakkai (忍野八海)
A Sacred Village of Eight Crystal-Clear Springs near Mt. Fuji
Oshino Hakkai is a picturesque village in Yamanashi Prefecture, famous for its eight natural spring ponds formed by the melted snow from Mount Fuji. It is a designated Natural Monument of Japan and part of the Mt. Fuji UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
🧊 What is “Hakkai”?
-
“Hakkai” (八海) means “Eight Seas”, referring to the eight spring-fed ponds.
-
The water is crystal-clear and comes from Mt. Fuji’s melted snow, filtered underground over 80 years through volcanic layers.
-
Each pond has a name and legend, and was once used for religious purification rituals.
🌿 Nature and Scenery
-
The ponds are surrounded by traditional thatched-roof houses, waterwheels, and views of Mount Fuji in the background.
-
Fish such as koi swim in the ponds, and the water is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom.
-
The scenery changes with the seasons, offering cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, autumn leaves, and snow-capped views in winter.
🛍️ Things to Do
-
Taste the spring water – it's drinkable at some spots!
-
Enjoy local snacks and sweets, such as fresh wasabi, grilled mochi, and Fujisan-shaped sweets.
-
Visit the Oshino Hakkai Hannokibayashi Museum, where you can learn about local culture and traditional farming tools.
-
Take stunning photos with reflections of Mt. Fuji in the ponds.
🛤️ Access
-
From Kawaguchiko Station, take a 25-minute bus ride to Oshino Hakkai Iriguchi.
-
It’s about 2 hours from Tokyo by train and bus, making it perfect for a day trip.
🎯 Why Visit Oshino Hakkai?
-
💧 See eight mystical spring ponds with pure Mt. Fuji water
-
🏔️ Enjoy scenic views of Mt. Fuji in a peaceful setting
-
📸 Take amazing photos of nature and traditional village life
-
🍡 Taste unique local foods and snacks
-
🧘 Feel the spiritual history of a place once used for purification
Oshino Hakkai is a serene and beautiful destination that offers a unique blend of natural wonder, cultural heritage, and unforgettable views of Mt. Fuji.
Official Website
https://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/english/recover/oshino-hakkai.html
Accommodation sites
Agoda
 A Sacred Village of Eight Crystal-Clear Springs near Mt. Fuji Oshino Hakkai i){kind=link}