Kakitagawa Park and it's Clear, Cobalt Blue Spring Water

About Kakitagawa Park

Kakitagawa Park was designated as a park in 1986, as a place of recreation for locals. In recent years, the park has attracted tourists as well, who are drawn to the breathtaking views in the park.

Stone Monument

Within the park are several natural springs, and in 2013, the springs in Kakitagawa Park were collectively designated as a natural monument.

The source of the springs, Kakitagawa River, flows through the park. The river only measures at 1.2 kilometers, but is acclaimed for its high degree of transparency.

In fact, along with Shimanto River in Kochi prefecture and Nagara River in Gifu prefecture, Kakitagawa River is named one of Japan’s three clearest streams.

7 Things to Experience at Kakitagawa Park

This is an introduction to all the must see sights of Kakitagawa Park. Ranging from touring the "wakima" from the observatory deck, the matchmaking shrine, and famous food, gurume, this spot is filled with intriguing spots!

“Wakima” – The cobalt blue springs

"Wakima" refers to the points from which spring water emerges, and there are many throughout Kakitagawa Park.
In particular, the view of the “wakima” from the second observatory is exceptionally breathtaking.

First observatory

The view from the first observatory

From the first observatory, you can see the source of the Kakitagawa River’s springs.
The source is easy to find, as you can see the water bubbling and springing.
During the winter, you may be able to see sweetfish spawning in the river.

Second observatory

Views from the Second observatory

The second observatory provides a view of a “wakima” spurting from a well.

The well was originally a sluice gate of a textile factory, and has a depth of over 5 meters. The water in the well is hyptonizing, transparent blue shade and is satisfyingly photogenic.

Taste the fresh spring water at its source!

Taste Kakitagawa's fresh water here

You can taste the fresh spring water from Kakitagawa’s springs right there.

The water contains an abundance of mineral and oxygen with a bit of a carbonated fizz.

In the park: nature and more!

Walking path

Kakitagawa Park isn’t just about springs. The park is also filled with lush greens and rare wildlife, such a dragonfly species that only exists in the Kakitagawa River area.

Inside the park is a walking path, where you can take a stroll surrounded by zelkova trees.

Water play area

Within the park is also a water play area, where spring water shoots up from the ground. The area is packed with children, especially during the summer.

During June and July, fireflies visit Kakitagawa Park for the fresh spring water. Many visitors come during this time to see the fireflies illuminate the summer night.

Kifune-jinja Shrine

Kifune-jinja

Far inside the park is Kifune-jinja Shrine. The shrine is a branch of Kyoto’s main Kifune-jinja, and celebrates the deity of water.
The deity is also known for matchmaking, making the shrine a popular spot for couples.
Touching the heart-shaped rock in the shrine is said to bring you luck in healthy relationships.

“Tofu ice cream” - Made from fresh Kakitagawa water

In the parking lot of Kakitagawa Park is Izumi no Kan, a traditional Japanese house turned into a souvenir shop and café.
One of the most popular snacks here is the tofu ice cream. The tofu is made with fresh spring water from Kakitagawa’s springs.
There are five flavors to choose from: plain, matcha, strawberry, sesame and wasabi.

Access

Nearest station: Kakitagawa-yusui-koen-mae柿田川湧水公園前 (bus stop)

From Tokyo Station 東京駅

【Tokyo Station】Tokaido Shinkansen / for Nagoya
→ 【Mishima Sta.】Numazu Hakone Tozan Tokai Bus / for Fujiihara
→ 【Kakitagawa-yusui-koen-mae】 → about a 1-minute walk

From Shizuoka Station 静岡駅

【Shizuoka Sta.】Tokaido Shinkansen / for Tokyo
→ 【Mishima Sta.】Numazu Hakone Tozan Tokai Bus / for Fujiihara
→ 【Kakitagawa-yusui-koen-mae】 → about a 1-minute walk

From Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport富士山静岡空港

【Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport】Shizuoka Airport Line (Bus) / for Shizuoka Station
→ 【Shizuoka Sta.】Tokaido Shinkansen / for Tokyo
→ 【Mishima Sta.】Numazu Hakone Tozan Tokai Bus / for Fujiihara
→ 【Kakitagawa-yusui-koen-mae】→ about a 1-minute walk

Taste the spring water; it's better than you could imagine!

Just the word spring water may not be the most intriguing word, but we can guarantee that the spring water from the Shizuoka prefecture will be greater than all expectations. If you take a trip to Shizuoka prefecture, visiting Kakitagawa Park is most definitely recommended.

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