Oshino Hakkai Village in Mt. Fuji Japan

Oshino Hakkai Village in Mt. Fuji Japan

Oshino Hakkai (忍野八海) is a scenic spot located near Mount Fuji in the village of Oshino, between Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. It’s famous for its eight crystal-clear spring ponds, which are fed by snowmelt from Mt. Fuji that filters through lava layers over decades.

🌿 Overview of Oshino Hakkai

Name Meaning:
“Oshino” is the name of the village, and “Hakkai” means “Eight Seas” or “Eight Ponds”.

Number of Ponds:
Eight distinct ponds:

Deguchi-ike

Okama-ike

Sokonashi-ike

Choshi-ike

Waku-ike

Nigori-ike

Kagami-ike

Shobu-ike

💧 Key Features

Pristine Spring Water:
The ponds are filled with water filtered from Mt. Fuji’s snowmelt—taking over 80 years to reach the surface. It’s incredibly clear and pure, often compared to glass.

Cultural Importance:
Oshino Hakkai is considered a sacred place, formerly part of a pilgrimage route to Mt. Fuji. The water is thought to be spiritually purifying.

UNESCO Site:
Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site listing for Mt. Fuji under “Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration.”

Traditional Japanese Setting:
The area is dotted with traditional thatched-roof buildings, wooden waterwheels, and local souvenir shops, offering a nostalgic look at rural Japan.

🏞️ Views & Activities

Mt. Fuji Views:
On clear days, you can see Mt. Fuji reflected in the ponds—especially beautiful in photos.

Walking Path:
A short walking loop connects all eight ponds and takes about 30–60 minutes to explore fully.

Local Delicacies:
Try fresh spring water, wasabi root, rice crackers, or grilled fish caught locally.

📍 Access

By Bus: From Kawaguchiko Station, it takes about 30 minutes by bus to reach Oshino Hakkai.

By Car: It’s a popular stop on Fuji Five Lakes driving routes.

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