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Spring pond · Oshino Hakkai, Mt. Fuji

Nakaike Pond

中池
Naka-ike · the "Middle Pond"
★ 4.4302 Google reviews·Very crowdedNot one of the official 8
AI overview

Naka-ike — the "Middle Pond" — is the deep, vividly blue pool at the heart of Oshino Hakkai, and the image most people picture when they think of the springs. Fed by the same Mt. Fuji snowmelt, its water is so clear you can see straight to the bottom, with koi drifting among swaying water plants and, on a still morning, Mt. Fuji mirrored on the surface. It sits right by the Ikemoto souvenir shop amid food stalls and free spring-water tasting, which makes it lively — but also the most crowded spot in the village. One honest note: as striking as it is, Naka-ike is actually man-made and not one of Oshino Hakkai's eight sacred ponds, though it's fed by the same springs and remains the area's visual highlight.

Generated summary · confirm hours and prices before visiting
中池Open larger map·Google Maps
Opening HoursDaytime, outdoors · the Ikemoto shop & area around it roughly 8:30–17:15 (listings vary; the pond itself is in the open-air village)
AdmissionFree to view
DurationAbout 10–20 min here (the whole central area, ~1 hour)
Best TimeEarly morning — calm water, fewer crowds and Mt. Fuji reflections; bright daylight makes the blue most vivid
EnglishSome English signage · the souvenir shop is used to international visitors
AccessibilityFlat, paved central area · very busy and tight at peak times
FacilitiesIkemoto souvenir shop, food stalls, free spring-water tasting, toilets nearby
Getting ThereIn the heart of the Oshino Hakkai central area, beside the Ikemoto shop
SuitabilityFamilies · all ages · photographers
AddressShibokusa, Oshino, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0511
Google Maps OpenStreetMap
Phone0555-84-3111

Good to know

  • This is the famous deep-blue pond most photos of Oshino Hakkai show — but it's man-made, not one of the official eight.
  • Free to view, in the busy commercial heart of the village by the Ikemoto shop.
  • It's the most crowded spot in Oshino Hakkai — come early morning or near closing for calm water and photos.
  • The blue is most vivid in bright daylight; a still morning adds the Mt. Fuji reflection.
  • Bring cash for the shop, food stalls and parking; free spring-water tasting is on site.