Oshino Hakkai
Eight Sacred Ponds Fed by Mount Fuji's Pure Waters
Oshino Hakkai (Eight Springs of Oshino) consists of eight ponds fed by underground springs from Mount Fuji's snowmelt. Water that falls on Mount Fuji filters through porous volcanic rock layers for an estimated 20-80 years before emerging as crystal-clear springs at Oshino. This natural filtration creates exceptionally pure water with temperatures around 13°C year-round. The ponds range from 1 to 8 meters in depth, with the deepest being Shobu Pond.
The ponds have been considered sacred since ancient times. The name 'hakkai' refers to the eight ponds, but also evokes Buddhist numerology. Pilgrims en route to climb Mount Fuji would traditionally perform purification rituals at these springs. Each pond is associated with a Buddhist deity or concept. During the Edo period, the area around Lake Kawaguchi (which once connected to the ponds) and these springs formed part of the Fuji worship pilgrimage route.
In 1934, the springs were designated a Natural Monument and National Scenic Beauty Site. The village retains traditional thatched-roof farmhouses (kayabuki) around the ponds, preserving the rural atmosphere despite increasing tourism. In 2013, Oshino Hakkai was included as part of the 'Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration' UNESCO World Heritage listing. The site attracts visitors seeking the rare combination of pure natural springs, traditional architecture, and Mount Fuji views.
Key Highlights
- Eight spring-fed ponds with water filtered through Mount Fuji for 20-80 years
- Designated Natural Monument and National Scenic Beauty Site (1934)
- Part of Mount Fuji UNESCO World Heritage listing (2013)
- Water temperature constant at 13°C year-round with exceptional purity
- Traditional thatched-roof farmhouses preserved around ponds
- Sacred pilgrimage site on historic Mount Fuji worship route
Access Information
Location
Shibokusa, Oshino, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0511, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Fujisan Station (Fujikyu Railway Line)
- • Kawaguchiko Station (Fujikyu Railway Line)
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours (outdoor ponds) | Shops and restaurants: typically 9:00-17:00 | Best viewing: daytime for Mount Fuji views
Admission Fee
Free to view most ponds | Shobu Pond viewing platform: ¥300 | Some traditional houses charge ¥300-500 entry
How to Get There
From Fujisan Station
Fujikyu Bus bound for Lake Yamanaka
15 minutes
From Kawaguchiko Station
Fujikyu Bus bound for Uchino or Lake Yamanaka
25 minutes
From Tokyo
Highway bus to Kawaguchiko, then local bus
2.5-3 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Clear Weather Essential for Mount Fuji Views
The ponds are beautiful regardless, but clear views of Mount Fuji transform the experience. Morning typically offers better visibility than afternoon. Check weather forecasts. Winter (November-February) provides the clearest Fuji views.
Wakutaike Pond: Best Photo Spot
Wakutaike Pond offers the most dramatic clarity with aquatic plants visible at 8-meter depth. With Mount Fuji in the background and traditional houses nearby, it provides quintessential Oshino Hakkai photographs. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
Pure Spring Water Experience
The water is potable and locals fill bottles from designated spots. The water's purity and constant cool temperature create remarkable clarity. You can see to the bottom of even the deepest ponds. Some springs have small fish visible.
Local Specialties
Try soba noodles made with the pure spring water, and iwana (char fish) grilled on sticks. Many restaurants and shops line the tourist path between ponds. The spring water is also used to make tofu and sake.
Early Morning or Late Afternoon
Tour buses bring large crowds from mid-morning through afternoon, especially on weekends. Visiting early morning or late afternoon offers more peaceful experiences and better photograph opportunities without crowds.
Walking All Eight Ponds
The main ponds cluster in a small area (30-minute walk). Some ponds have become commercialized with shops, while others remain peaceful. Allow 1-2 hours to fully explore, photograph, and enjoy the atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes as paths can be uneven.
Traditional House Museums
Several preserved thatched-roof farmhouses open as small museums showing traditional rural life. Entry typically ¥300-500. These houses help contextualize the area's cultural heritage beyond natural beauty.
Commercial Development
The area has become increasingly commercialized with souvenir shops and restaurants. Some visitors find this detracts from natural beauty. Set expectations accordingly - it's no longer a pristine traditional village but still offers remarkable natural features and Fuji views.
FAQ
How long should I spend at Oshino Hakkai?
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring all eight ponds and the village. It's small enough to see quickly but photogenic enough to linger. Combine with other Fuji Five Lakes attractions.
Can I see Mt. Fuji from here?
Yes, on clear days Mt. Fuji provides a stunning backdrop to the ponds. Best visibility is early morning, especially in winter. Cloudy days still offer beautiful pond views.
Why is the water so clear?
The ponds are fed by Mt. Fuji snowmelt filtered through lava layers for 20+ years. This natural filtration creates exceptional clarity. The water maintains 13°C year-round.
Can I drink the water?
Yes, at designated spots. The water is pure and delicious. Bring a bottle to fill. Many visitors consider it some of Japan's best natural spring water.
Is it very touristy?
Yes, especially on weekends and holidays with tour buses. Early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon offers a more peaceful experience. The commercialization can disappoint some visitors.
Are there entrance fees?
The ponds themselves are free to view. The Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan museum charges ¥300 but is optional. Some viewing platforms at restaurants require purchases.
What food is available?
Local specialties include soba, fresh vegetables, and soft-serve ice cream. The local tofu made with spring water is excellent. Prices are tourist-area typical.
Is it worth visiting in bad weather?
The ponds are beautiful even without Mt. Fuji views, but rain diminishes the experience. The water clarity remains impressive. Consider postponing if weather is poor.
How deep are the ponds?
Depths vary from 0.5 to 8 meters. The deepest, Waku Pond, creates an illusion of bottomlessness due to its clarity. Information boards show each pond's depth.
What else is nearby?
Lake Yamanaka is 20 minutes away. Fuji-Q Highland amusement park is 30 minutes. Many visitors include Oshino Hakkai in a Fuji Five Lakes day tour.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Fuji Five Lakes
A scenic resort area at Mt. Fuji's northern base featuring five picturesque lakes offering spectacular mountain views, outdoor activities, and natural beauty throughout the seasons.
Mt. Fuji
Japan's highest and most iconic mountain, a sacred symbol of the nation and a UNESCO World Heritage site standing at 3,776 meters.