Oshino Hakkai (忍野八海)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A collective name for eight ponds formed by melted Mount Fuji snow that has been filtered through rock and soil over many years, designated as a Japanese National Natural Monument and symbol of Oshino Village. Among them, Wakuike (湧池) stands out for its water volume and transparency—the crystalline blue water is so clear you can see all the way to the bottom, captivating both adults and children. The thatched-roof houses and water mills scattered throughout the village landscape create picture-perfect scenes from every angle, and on clear days, Mount Fuji adds its magnificent presence to the composition. Since the route simply circles the ponds, even families with small children can easily explore the area.

Tips

Exploring the ponds themselves is free; admission is only charged if you enter the Harinoki Forest Museum (榛の木林資料館) at Sokinuke-ike (底抜池), approximately 300 yen. Use nearby paid parking lots (around 300 yen per visit). The pathways are nearly level and can accommodate strollers, but it gets crowded with tourists during the day, so arriving around 9 a.m. or earlier is recommended. Some areas have low fences around the ponds, so be sure to hold children's hands.

Best time to visit

Allow approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Before 9 a.m. there are fewer crowds and the pond surfaces are calm and beautiful.

Access & map

〒401-0511 Oshino, Minami-tsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture