![[Two hours from Tokyo] An autumn road trip in search of the famous spring water of Hakushu, Hokuto City.](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/08/25-269627.webp)
An autumn road trip in Hokuto City's Hakushu region, following the famous spring waters. Collect the spring water, walk through the autumn-colored Shirakawa Gorge, and enjoy the flavors nurtured by the water as you make your way to Daigahara-juku. The trip concludes with a relaxing soak in a hot spring, fully experiencing the blessings of the spring water, and soothing away the day's fatigue.
Written by
It is located in the northwest of Yamanashi Prefecture, on the border with Nagano Prefecture. It is a vast area surrounded by 3,000m-class mountains such as the Yatsugatake Mountains, the Southern Alps, and Mt. Kinpu, and overlooking Mt. Fuji to the south. It is about a two-hour drive from Tokyo, about an hour from Mt. Fuji, and about an hour from Matsumoto, and is easily accessible, so many tourists visit throughout the year. It is also known as a "village of famous water," and three places have been selected as one of Japan's 100 famous water sources. This bounty of water is loved as natural water, and the area boasts one of the largest production volumes of mineral water in Japan. Sake is also produced from the pure water, and you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery and rich food.
A scenic autumn road trip in search of the famous spring waters of Hakushu.
In autumn, when the mountains are adorned with colorful foliage, we headed to Hakushu Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture Prefecture.
Located at the foot of Mount Kai - Mount Komagatake in the Minami Alps , Hakushu is a "village of famous waters," blessed with abundant water resources, including the Shirakawa, which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 best waters .
Water that has passed through the granite landscape over many years is refined into crisp, soft water, and the area is also known as a production center for drinking water.
This time, we're taking an autumn drive in search of the famous spring water of Hakushu.
Enjoy the autumn foliage with your eyes, savor the water, and feel the hot springs on your skin. Embark on a day of exploring autumn in Hakushu with all your senses.
Before you begin your journey
To safely enjoy the beautiful waters and autumn foliage of Hakushu, let's check a few things before you depart.
🍁 Autumn foliage: The best time to see the autumn leaves varies depending on the weather and temperature each year. Check the latest information before you go.
🌦️ River conditions: The Shirakawa Gorge is a gorge. The water level may rise after heavy rain. Please check the conditions and enjoy your trip with a safe itinerary.
🥾 Clothing and Shoes: Since you'll be walking through a canyon, we recommend comfortable, non-slip shoes and easy-to-move-in clothing. In autumn, temperatures can drop, so it's a good idea to bring a jacket.
💧 Drinking water: Prepare drinking water before walking through the gorge. You can fill up natural spring water at the Hakushu roadside station, so bringing your own bottle is recommended.
🐻 To enjoy the nature of the mountains: The Shirakawa Valley is an area of the Minami Alps where abundant nature remains. It is also a habitat for Asiatic black bears, so be sure to carry a bear bell and take basic precautions for walking in nature.
🌅 Pay attention to sunset time: In autumn, the days are shorter and sunset comes earlier. Allow plenty of time for returning from the gorge and for travel, and make sure to act while it's still light.
🎒 Take your trash with you: To leave beautiful water and Mori for the next travelers, be sure to take your trash with you.
♨️ Preparing for the hot springs: We'll stop by Ojiro no Yu. Bringing towels and a change of clothes will allow you to enjoy the hot springs even more.
-
Table of Contents
- A itinerary for a road trip in search of famous springs.
- 9:15 AM - Hakushu Roadside Station | The journey begins in a village of famous spring water.
- 10:00 AM - Shirakawa Valley | Chasing the famous spring water, encountering clear streams and autumn foliage.
- 12:00 - Kamoshika Shokudo | The taste of Hakushu, nurtured by its pure water.
- 13:30 - Daigahara-juku | Take home the blessings of pure spring water as a souvenir of your trip.
- 16:00 - Ojiro no Yu | The perfect way to end your trip, experiencing the pure spring water on your skin.
- Taste and feel the pure water of Hakushu. A day to enjoy the blessings of water with all five senses.
A itinerary for a road trip in search of famous springs.
| time | destination | Duration | Travel tips |
| 9:00 | 🚗Chuo Chuo Sutama IC | Approximately 2 hours from Tokyo via the Chuo Expressway. | The journey to find famous spring water begins! |
| 9:15 ~ | 💧 Roadside Station Hakushu | Approximately 20 minutes by car from Sutama Interchange / Approximately 15 minutes by car from Kobuchizawa Interchange and Nagasaka Interchange | Free parking available 🅿 Get some pure spring water and prepare for your trip |
| 10:00 ~ | Shirakawa Valley Parking Lot | Approximately 7 minutes by car from the roadside station. | Free parking available. |
| ⛩️Takeu Mount Komagatake Shrine | Approximately 5 minutes on foot from the parking lot. | Praying for a safe journey | |
| 🏞️ Shirakawa Valley, Sen-ga-buchi | Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Takeu Mount Komagatake Shrine | Enjoying pristine spring water and autumn foliage | |
| Shirakawa Valley Parking Lot | 15-minute walk from Sen-ga-fuchi | ||
| 12:00 ~ | 🍚 Kamoshika Shokudo (Michi-no-Eki Hakushu) | Approximately 7 minutes by car from the Shirakawa Valley parking lot. | lunch |
| 13:30 - 15:30 | 🏘️ Daigahara-juku Municipal Parking Lot | Approximately 5 minutes by car from the roadside station. | Free parking available. |
| 🍡Daigahara Kinseiken | Approximately 5 minutes on foot from the municipal parking lot. | Enjoying the famous Shingen Mochi confection | |
| 🍦 Itoma Chocolate & Ice Cream | Approximately 2 minutes on foot from Daigahara Kinseiken | Enjoying a coffee break at a chocolate specialty shop. | |
| 🍶 Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd. | Approximately 3 minutes on foot from Itoma | Enjoying the fine sake, Shichiken | |
| 16:00 - 17:00 | ♨️Ojiro Hot Spring | Approximately 10 minutes by car from the Daigahara-juku municipal parking lot. | Free parking available. |
| 17:00 ~ | 🚗Chuo Chuo Sutama IC | Approximately 22 minutes by car from Ojiro no Yu | Please be careful on your way home! |
9:15 AM - Hakushu Roadside Station | The journey begins in a village of famous spring water.
Michi-no-Eki Hakushu is the gateway to Hakushu, located at the foot of Mount Kai - Mount Komagatake in the Minami Alps .
A water source where you can draw natural water 24 hours a day is popular.
At the farmers market, you'll find fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits, as well as specialty products unique to Hakushu, a region renowned for its pristine water.
At the adjacent Kamoshika Restaurant , you can enjoy meals made with the famous spring water of Hakushu and local ingredients .
Drawing pure spring water and experiencing the blessings of Hakushu—this is where our autumn journey in search of pristine water begins.
First, fill your reusable bottle with natural water .
Once you've picked up your travel companions at the farmers market, let's begin our autumn journey in search of pristine spring water .
Tips | No need to bring your own water bottle! You can buy empty plastic bottles at the Hakushu Roadside Station.
Roadside Station Hakushu 📍 1308 Shirasu, Hakushu-cho, Hokuto Hokuto City
📅 Closed on Wednesdays (open every day from March to November) and during the New Year holidays. 🕐 Opening hours: Farmers Market 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Kamoshika Shokudo Weekdays 11:00-15:00 (Last Order 14:50) Weekends and Holidays 11:00-18:00 (Last Order 17:00)
Cafe corner: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Natural spring water source, available 24 hours a day 📞 Phone number: 0551-20-4711
🚗Free Parking🅿 85 spaces for regular cars, 4 spaces for large buses, 2 spaces for disabled persons
🪑Seating Capacity: Kamoshika Shokudo 38 seats, Free Space 18 seats 💳Payment Methods: Cash, Credit Card, Electronic Payment *Information as of August 2026. Please check the latest information on our official Instagram before visiting.
Access 🚙 Approximately 15 minutes from Kobuchizawa IC or Nagasaka IC on the Chuo Expressway, and approximately 20 minutes from Sutama IC. 🚃 Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from JR Kobuchizawa Station or Nagasaka Station.
10:00 AM - Shirakawa Valley | Chasing the famous spring water, encountering clear streams and autumn foliage.
It's about a 7-minute drive from the Hakushu roadside station.
With the majestic Mount Kai - Mount Komagatake of the Minami Alps directly in front of you, you pass through a rural landscape and arrive at the Shirakawa Valley .
Once you've parked your car in the parking lot, let's start walking along the forest path.
You will arrive at Takeu Mount Komagatake Shrine in about 5 minutes on foot.
Why not experience traditional Japanese worship practices while praying for a safe journey?
⛩️ How to worship at a shrine
1. Before passing through the torii gate, bow slightly in front of it. The Chuo of the approach to the shrine is considered the path of the gods, so avoid walking in the Chuo.
2. Purify yourself. If there is a water basin (chozuya), purify your hands and mouth before praying.
*How to purify: Use the ladle to purify your left hand, then your right hand, and finally take some water in your left hand and rinse your mouth.
Fill the ladle with water again, and then stand the ladle upright to cleanse the handle.
(Avoid putting your mouth directly on the ladle.)
3. Pray at the main hall. Place your offering in the offering box, bow twice, clap twice, and bow once. Pray for a safe journey, etc.
4. Bow when you leave. Before leaving the torii gate, turn around and give a slight bow to the shrine grounds.
Crossing the suspension bridge next to the shrine and proceeding along the riverbed lined with white granite rocks, you will eventually come into view of an emerald green pool.
This is Chigafuchi .
During the autumn foliage season, the trees, dyed in Aka and yellow, create a beautiful contrast with the clear water.
Sitting on a rock, feeling the wind, or listening to the sound of water.
We enjoyed some snacks along with the natural water we had brought.
Take your time, don't rush. Spend your time as you please in this land of pristine water .
Tips | There are no toilets at Sen-ga-fuchi. It's a good idea to stop by the permanent toilets in the parking lot before you leave.
Shirakawa Gorge 📍 8886 Shirasu, Hakushu-cho, Hokuto City(Shirakawa Parking Lot)
📞Phone number: 0551-20-4711
🚗Free Parking🅿 Approx. 100 regular cars, approx. 5 large buses. Elevation: 770-1,100m
🍁 Best time to see autumn leaves: (Sen-ga-fuchi and the suspension bridge area) Early to late November Types: Beech, maple, etc. *The best time to see the autumn leaves may vary depending on the weather each year. Please check the latest information before you go.
Access 🚙 Approximately 22 minutes from Kobuchizawa IC or Nagasaka IC on the Chuo Expressway / Approximately 27 minutes from Sutama IC
🚃Approximately 22 minutes by taxi from JR Kobuchizawa Station or Nagasaka Station.
⚠️ Precautions when walking in the Shirakawa Valley
Swimming and open fires are prohibited at Chigafuchi.
You can enjoy a stroll to Chigafuchi while admiring the autumn foliage and the clear stream. Since you will be walking along the riverbed, please wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. A stroll to Chigafuchi is recommended for those with little hiking experience, those who are unsure of their physical fitness, and those with small children.
The path from Chigafuchi to Fudo Falls is a mountain trail. It is a narrow gorge path with unstable footing, and there is a risk of falling into the valley if you slip. If you proceed to Fudo Falls, make sure you have appropriate mountain climbing equipment, check your footing carefully, and proceed cautiously at a comfortable pace.
The route from Fudo Falls towards Nishiki and Hinatayama is impassable due to a landslide.
The hiking trail from Chigafuchi to Fudo Falls is closed for the winter season, typically from mid-December to mid-April.
Please check the latest traffic conditions before you go out.
12:00 - Kamoshika Shokudo | The taste of Hakushu, nurtured by its pure water.
Kamoshika Shokudo, located next to the Hakushu Roadside Station, offers local cuisine .
The menu is Toyotomi , featuring set meals made with seasonal local vegetables and wild plants, as well as Yamanashi 's famous Hoto noodles.
After hiking in the Shirakawa Valley, it was time for a hearty lunch.
Let's prepare for our afternoon journey while savoring the blessings nurtured by the pristine waters of Hakushu.
At the Kamoshika Cafe Corner, you can enjoy soft-serve ice cream that is only available in this region.
"Hakushu Yamajio Soft" is a rich soft-serve ice cream made with high-quality milk from Kiyosato Milk Plant,
This soft-serve ice cream features a pleasant salty flavor, accented by a blend of yamajio, a salt extracted by boiling down the hot spring water from Ojiro no Yu .
We also recommend enjoying the unique taste of Hakushu, which is made from pristine spring water .
13:30 - Daigahara-juku | Take home the blessings of pure spring water as a souvenir of your trip.
The Koshu Kaido, which has been selected as one of Japan's 100 Best Roads , is located along the route of Daigahara-juku, a post town that once flourished.
During the Edo period, the highway connecting Edo (Tokyo) and Koshu) was bustling with travelers, and the town flourished as a post town.
What you'll want to encounter here are the unique local products of Hokuto, born from the pristine water of Hakushu.
Take a stroll through the historic townscape and take home some of the blessings of its pristine water as a souvenir.
🍡 Kinseiken | The taste of Japanese sweets born from pure spring water
Founded in 1902, Kinseiken has been making Japanese sweets alongside the history of Daigahara-juku.
In addition to the classic "Shingen Mochi," you can also enjoy seasonal Japanese sweets such as the popular summer-only item, "Mizu Shingen Mochi."
Why not savor the unique flavors of Hakushu, a town renowned for its pristine water , through traditional Japanese sweets (wagashi) ?
We also recommend enjoying the Japanese sweets you purchased right there at the tables outside the shop or in the eat-in area on the second floor.
📍2211 Hara , Hakushu-cho , Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture Prefecture
📅 Closed on Thursdays and January 1st 🕐 Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
📞Phone number: 0551-35-2246
🚗 Free parking available (10 spaces) *Approximately 1 minute walk from the store 💳 Payment methods: Cash, credit card, electronic payment *Information as of August 2026. Please check the latest information on our official Instagram or other sources before you go.
🍦 Itoma Chocolate & Ice Cream | A sweet temptation showcasing pure water and expert craftsmanship.
![[Two hours from Tokyo] An autumn road trip in search of the famous spring water of Hakushu, Hokuto City.](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/08/26-269707.webp)
Itoma, a specialty bean-to-bar chocolate shop, also operates its own shop and cafe.
From chocolates that bring out the unique characteristics of each specialty cacao bean, to chocolates that luxuriously use craft chocolate...
Here you can find unique treats such as ice cream, hot chocolate, and chocolate cake that you can't enjoy anywhere else .
Why not take some time to enjoy it during your trip?
Itoma Chocolate & Ice Cream
📍2196 Hara , Hakushu-cho , Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture Prefecture
📅Closed Mondays and Tuesdays 🕐Opening hours: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
🚗 Free parking available (3 spaces) 🪑 Seating capacity: 20 seats 💳 Payment methods: Cash, credit card *Information as of August 2026. Please check the latest information on our official Instagram or other sources before visiting.
🍶 Shichiken | Yamanashi water
![[Two hours from Tokyo] An autumn road trip in search of the famous spring water of Hakushu, Hokuto City.](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/08/28-269835.webp)
Since its founding in 1750, Shichiken has been brewing sake using the famous spring water of Hakushu.
In addition to traditional Japanese sake, they produce alcoholic beverages that are highly regarded worldwide, such as "Shichiken Sparkling Sake."
At the sake bar Oonakaya, you can enjoy paid tastings, so why not try finding a bottle that catches your eye?
Yamanashi Meijo Co., Ltd., Sake Bar Onakaya 📍 2283 Hara , Hokuto City City , Yamanashi Prefecture
📅 Closed December 31st - January 3rd 🕐 Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM / Tasting: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Last entry 4:15 PM)
🚗 Free parking available (approximately 20 spaces) / Location: Shichiken Campus 💳 Payment methods: Cash, credit card *Information as of August 2026. Please check the latest information on the official Instagram or other sources before visiting.
Access to Daigahara-juku
🚙 Approximately 20 minutes from Kobuchizawa IC on the Chuo Expressway / Approximately 15 minutes from Nagasaka IC and Sutama IC 🚃 Approximately 20 minutes by taxi from JR Kobuchizawa Station / Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from Nagasaka Station
16:00 - Ojiro no Yu | The perfect way to end your trip, experiencing the pure spring water on your skin.
To conclude a day spent searching for pristine spring water, let's soak up its blessings in a hot spring .
Ojiro no Yu is a natural hot spring Toyotomi in minerals, gushing from deep underground beneath the Shirakawa . It is expected to relieve fatigue and provide a warming effect .
The open-air baths offer two types of baths: "Akayu," which uses 100% natural hot spring water, and "Shiroyu," which uses natural hot spring water diluted with the famous water of Hakushu.
Relax and unwind from your travels in an open-air bath overlooking the Mount Yatsugatake, while enjoying the autumn breeze.
♨️How to use a hot spring♨️
1. Head to the bathhouse. Take off your clothes in the changing room, grab a towel, and go to the bathhouse.
2. Wash your body. Before getting into the bathtub, wash your body thoroughly.
3. Soak in the bathtub. Do not put the towel in the bathtub; place it on your head or elsewhere.
4. Enjoy the hot springs. There are various ways to enjoy the hot springs, such as open-air baths and waterfall showers. Find your favorite bath!
5. Dry yourself. Before leaving the bath, dry yourself with a towel to remove any remaining moisture.
🌿Tips for enjoying hot springs🌿
Swimsuits are not worn. Bathing naked is the Japanese style of hot springs. Let's enjoy this unique Japanese hot spring culture.
Avoid taking long baths. Take breaks as needed to avoid overheating.
If you have long hair, tie it up. Make sure to keep your hair out of the bathtub.
Don't forget to stay hydrated. Drink water frequently before and after bathing.
Ojiro no Yu 📍 8077-1 Shirasu, Hakushu-cho, Hokuto Hokuto City
📅 Closed on Wednesdays (or the following day if Wednesday is a public holiday)
🕐Opening Hours Hot Springs: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Last entry 8:30 PM) Hakushu-an (Restaurant): 11:00 AM - 7:30 PM (Last entry 7:00 PM)
📞Phone number: 0551-35-2800
🅿 Free parking 🅿 400 spaces 💴 Admission fee: Adults 830 yen, Children 420 yen 💳 Payment methods: Cash, credit card, QR payment *Restaurants accept cash only
*This information is current as of August 2026. Please check the latest information on the official Instagram or other sources before you go.
Access: 🚙 Approximately 20 minutes from the Sutama IC, Nagasaka IC, or Kobuchizawa IC on the Chuo Expressway. 🚃 Approximately 20 minutes by taxi from JR Kobuchizawa Station or Nagasaka Station.
Taste and feel the pure water of Hakushu. A day to enjoy the blessings of water with all five senses.
How was your day exploring the famous spring waters of Hakushu ?
A day spent searching for the pure , unspoiled spring water that can only be found in Hakushu-cho , Hokuto City .
Drawing water, drinking it, eating with it, and finally soaking in a hot spring – throughout the day, I experienced the blessings of water in various ways.
Water is an irreplaceable resource that sustains our lives. By experiencing its blessings with all our senses, we can perhaps deepen our appreciation for and respect for water.
On your next trip, please be sure to come and experience the famous spring water of Hakushu .
![[Tokyo, Shinjuku] Buy Matcha Here! 2 Long-established Japanese Tea Shops Where You Can Get the Authentic Taste!](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2025/09/24-245090.webp)
![[Aichi, Tokoname] Feature Articles on the film "Swans and Bats"](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/09/08-270391.webp)
