Izuruhara Benten Pond (出流原弁天池)

Flow of the course

About this spot

Located in Izuruhara-cho, Sano City, this spring-fed pond is selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Famous Waters. It's a small pond about 138m in circumference, but the water is so clear that you can clearly see the bottom and the fish swimming in it. On the cliff at the edge of the pond, the vermilion shrine of Isoyama Benzaiten juts out in a stage-like structure, and its reflection on the water's surface is striking. Even in summer, the area around the spring stays cool, and you can feel the coolness just by standing near the pond. Climbing the long stone steps takes you up to the shrine hall, from which you can look down over the pond and the surrounding scenery.

Tips

Swimming or entering the water at the pond is not allowed. Please view it from outside the surrounding fence. There is a steep stone stairway up to the Benzaiten shrine hall, so climb only as far as feels comfortable. There is a parking lot. Mosquitoes appear in summer, so insect repellent will help keep you comfortable.

Best time to visit

About 50 minutes. Even during the hours of strong sunlight, the area near the spring feels cool

Access & map

1117 Izuruharamachi, Sano City, Tochigi Prefecture 327-0102