Ryugakubo, a Spring-Fed Pond of Dragon Legend in Tsunan

Tucked away in a deep forest in Tsunan, Ryugakubo is a mysterious spring-fed pond where dragon legends have been passed down for generations. In 1985 it was chosen by the Ministry of the Environment among Japan finest one hundred waters, and it is also designated a natural environment conservation area and a wildlife protection zone of Niigata Prefecture.

Roughly 30 tons of clear water gush forth every minute, about 43,000 tons a day, and the entire basin of about 1.2 hectares (some 11,900 square meters) is said to be renewed in a single day. For this reason the water never grows cloudy, keeping a clarity that lets you see straight to the bottom. The water temperature stays cold and stable at around 7 to 8 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

Highlights

• A surface that shimmers emerald, mirroring the greenery within a forest of beech and cedar.
• The village Benten deity enshrined at the pond edge, with Ryugakubo Shrine standing deeper in. Two hamlets each tend a shrine and hold festivals every July, making this an extremely sacred pond.
• A drawing point about one minute on foot from the parking area, where you can actually draw the famous water.
• A mirror-still surface on windless days, reflecting the forest and sky.
• The cold, clear water is home to fish such as brook trout, and many wild birds can be observed nearby.

Enjoying the Seasons

From fresh spring greens to the deep green of summer, dappled sunlight flickers on the water in a dreamlike way. In autumn the surrounding trees turn color and the foliage is reflected in the pond. The hush of this waterside, long protected by local people as living water, stays unchanged through every season.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: Yachi, Tsunan, Nakauonuma District, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: From Echigo-Yuzawa Station transfer by bus, alight at Yachi Kominkan-mae, then about 10 minutes on foot.
• Parking is available, and a walking path circles the pond edge.

Practical Travel Notes

• The pond water is also living water for the community. Do not touch it or throw anything in; view it quietly from the walking path. Water drawn at the drawing point is safest used after boiling.
• Because it lies in the mountains, public transport is limited. If driving, take care as some nearby stretches of road are narrow.
• The walking path is largely shaded and cool even in summer. Insect repellent and easy-walking shoes make the visit comfortable.
• The early morning brings a beautiful water mirror and few people, making it the best time for photography and a quiet stroll.

A Quick Tip

This is a precious water source supporting local life. Walk quietly so as not to soil the water, and always carry your trash home. The water mirror is beautiful in the windless early morning, perfect for photographs.

📚 Sources

This article is based on guidance from Tsunan and the Tsunan Tourism Association, public information from the Ministry of the Environment on its selection of Japan finest waters, materials on the prefectural natural conservation and wildlife protection designations, and on-site information boards. The state of the drawing point and paths may change, so please confirm with the Tsunan Tourism Association before setting out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: The walking path circles the pond; allow about an hour with the drawing point.
• Manners: Do not touch the water or throw anything in; view it quietly as this is living water.
• What to prepare: Insect repellent and easy-walking shoes; water drawn here is safest boiled.
• When to go: The early morning brings a beautiful water mirror and few people.
• Before you go: Roads nearby are narrow, so drive with care and check access in advance.

Practical Information for Your Visit

• Address: 6217 Yachi, Tsunan Town, Nakauonuma District, Niigata Prefecture 949-8204
• Open period: The site is closed in winter and usually reopens around the end of the Golden Week holidays (in 2025 it was from May 11). Just after reopening, snow may remain on the walking paths, so take care where you step
• Parking: Space for about 35 ordinary cars. Parking costs 300 yen for ordinary cars, 100 yen for motorcycles and 1,000 yen for large and microbuses (from April, Reiwa 7 (2025))
• Facilities: There are permanent toilets
• Water collection point: You can take the spring water free of charge, but a donation box is set up to help protect the environment of the pond
• Inquiries: 025-765-5454 (Tsunan Town Hall)
• Official information: Tsunan Town official website, Tsunan Town Tourism Association official website

* The above is a guide based on information published by each facility and local authority. Times and fees are subject to change, so please check the official information before you set out.