Jimba Falls and Takasago Sake brewery
Mount Fuji has no rivers that flow year-round. This is because the ground, composed of volcanic gravel, allows rainwater to quickly permeate underground. However, this rainwater is filtered beneath the surface, dissolving many minerals as it goes, and then emerges as springs in various locations around Mount Fuji.
Oshino Hakkai and Shiraito Falls are famous examples. Today, we’d like to introduce one of these springs: Jimba Falls. This waterfall is nestled in a small village, and its water is so delicious that locals bring plastic containers to collect it. Filtered and chilled by Mount Fuji’s basaltic layers, the water is always refreshingly cold. In summer, its chill can even create mist rising from the river. The village features water channels fed by this spring water, and there are even wasabi fields. A walk through the area is quite pleasant. A short distance away, trout farming also thrives. Downstream, towns use this soft water from Mount Fuji for sake brewing. Following the journey of this water—as it springs forth, forms rivers, nurtures culture along its banks, and eventually flows into the sea—offers a fascinating travel experience.
