Oike Springs, Natural spring in Yufu, Japan.
Oike Springs is a natural spring on the northern slope of Mount Kurodake, within the city of Yufu in Oita Prefecture, Japan. The water rises through volcanic ground at around 850 meters above sea level and carries a high mineral content.
The area around the springs sits in one of the volcanic zones of the Kunisaki Peninsula and was used as a water source long before it gained any official recognition. In 1985, the Japanese Ministry of Environment included it in a national conservation program.
The water from these springs is considered pure by locals, who often come with containers to take it home for drinking or cooking. Seeing people fill up bottles at the source is a common sight and gives the visit a grounded, everyday feel.
The path to the springs crosses forested terrain, so wearing sturdy footwear is a good idea. The walk from the last bus stop takes a while, so starting early in the day gives you enough time without rushing.
The water temperature at Oike Springs holds steady at around 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit) no matter the season, which is unusual for a source sitting above volcanic ground. In most volcanic areas, spring temperatures tend to shift, but something in the geology here keeps the flow very consistent.
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