A Crystal-Clear Spring Born from Mount Fuji — Discover One of Japan’s Finest Water Sources at Kakita River Park

Image provided by: Shimizu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture

A Water and Greenery Oasis Along One of Japan’s Three Great Clear Streams

Located in Shimizu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture, Kakita River Park is a natural park where visitors can observe the famous Kakita River Springs, a nationally designated Natural Monument.

The Kakita River is fed entirely by groundwater originating from rain and snow that fell around Mount Fuji. After filtering through layers of volcanic rock over many years, the water emerges as crystal-clear springs that form the river itself. Thanks to its exceptional water quality and abundant flow, the river has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Remarkable Waters and one of the “100 Natural Landscapes to Preserve for the 21st Century.” It is also widely recognized as one of Japan’s Three Great Clear Streams.

Within the park, visitors can stroll along walking paths and observation decks while viewing the mysterious spring openings known as wakima, where groundwater continuously rises to the surface. The river maintains a remarkably stable temperature of around 15°C (59°F) throughout the year.

Surrounded by lush greenery despite its proximity to urban areas, Kakita River Park offers a rare opportunity to witness the very place where water is born.

Image provided by: Shimizu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture

Highlights of Kakita River Park

1. Observation Decks Overlooking the Mysterious Spring Openings

One of the first places visitors should explore is the park’s First and Second Observation Decks.

From these vantage points, you can look directly down into the wakima—the spring openings where groundwater continuously wells up from beneath the earth. The spring visible from the Second Observation Deck is especially famous for its deep blue color and almost otherworldly beauty.

Watching crystal-clear water emerge from underground feels like peering into a hidden natural spring.

These waters are the very source of the Kakita River, representing rain and snow from Mount Fuji that have traveled underground for many years before resurfacing here.

Image provided by: Shimizu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture

2. Waterside Walks Along Boardwalks and Nature Trails

Wooden boardwalks and walking paths wind through the park, allowing visitors to enjoy a leisurely stroll alongside the spring-fed river.

The water is astonishingly clear, making it easy to see the riverbed and the aquatic plants gently swaying beneath the surface.

Listen closely and you will hear the soothing sounds of flowing water and birdsong, creating a peaceful atmosphere far removed from the bustle of nearby cities.

The scenery changes with the seasons, and both fresh greenery in spring and colorful foliage in autumn add to the park’s charm.

Image provided by: Shimizu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture

3. Experience Mount Fuji’s Spring Water Up Close

At the park’s Spring Water Plaza, visitors can actually touch the spring water for themselves.

Because the water remains around 15°C (59°F) throughout the year, it feels refreshingly cool in summer and relatively mild during winter.

Touching the remarkably clear water offers a tangible connection to Mount Fuji, allowing visitors to appreciate how rain and snow have traveled underground for years before emerging here.

The purity and coolness of the water can be experienced firsthand, making this area popular with both adults and children.

Being able not only to see the springs but also to interact with them is one of the unique attractions of Kakita River Park.

Image provided by: Shimizu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture

4. Discover a Town Shaped by Water

The Kakita River is far more than a scenic attraction.

Its abundant spring water supports the daily lives of local residents, serving as an important source of drinking water and household use throughout the region.

Around the park, visitors can also find local specialties that make use of the area’s pure spring water, including tofu, sweets, and regional products unique to Shimizu Town.

Experiencing the close relationship between nature and local life is another reason why this destination is so memorable.

Where the Gifts of Mount Fuji Emerge

Kakita River Park is more than a place to admire beautiful scenery.

It is a place where visitors can witness the extraordinary natural cycle of water—rain and snow falling on Mount Fuji, traveling underground for years, and eventually emerging to form a river.

Mysterious spring openings, crystal-clear waters, peaceful walking trails, and rich natural surroundings come together to create one of Japan’s most remarkable freshwater landscapes.

If you are exploring Shizuoka, be sure to visit Kakita River Park and experience the beauty of one of Japan’s most celebrated spring-water destinations.

Image provided by: Shimizu Town, Shizuoka Prefecture

Visitor Information

Name: Kakita River Park

Location: 71-7 Fushimi, Shimizu Town, Sunto District, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan

TEL: +81-55-981-8224 (Shimizu Town Urban Planning Division)

Access:

• Approximately 1 minute on foot from the “Kakita River Spring Park” bus stop via Tokai Bus from JR Mishima Station

• Approximately 1 minute on foot from the “Kakita River Spring Park” bus stop via Tokai Bus from JR Numazu Station

• Approximately 20 minutes by car from Numazu IC on the Tomei Expressway

Parking: Available (paid parking for standard vehicles)

Admission: Free

Official Website:https://www.town.shimizu.shizuoka.jp/toshi/toshi00054.html

Visitor Guidelines

To help protect the natural environment of the Kakita River, visitors are asked to observe the following rules:

• Please do not enter the Kakita River.

• Camping and open fires are prohibited.

• Please stay on designated paths and boardwalks.

• Take all trash and empty cans home with you.

• Do not litter cigarette butts.

• Park bicycles and motorcycles only in designated areas.

• Please refrain from collecting plants or animals (except invasive species where permitted).

• Do not throw coins or other objects into the spring water.

• Pets are not permitted in the park (except when carried in a pet carrier).

Please note that activities such as commercial sales, commercial photography, events, performances, or exclusive use of any part of the park require advance permission from Shimizu Town.

For the latest information, please visit the official website.