Ochiaigawa River and Minamisawa Springs in Higashikurume: Tokyo's Only Famous Water
Even in midsummer, crystal-clear spring water flows cold through Higashikurume City, where kingfishers dart above the Ochiaigawa River. The Ochiaigawa and the Minamisawa Spring Water System together form Tokyo's only entry in the Environment Ministry's 2008 "Heisei Famous Waters" list.
Tokyo's Only Heisei Famous Water
The Minamisawa springs emerge in Minamisawa 3-chome in Higashikurume, supplying roughly 10,000 tons of water daily to the Ochiaigawa. This water is rainwater that soaked into the Musashino Plateau decades ago and was slowly filtered through the ground. Flow remains stable even during dry periods, making this one of the most remarkable urban natural springs in Japan.
Wildlife of the Ochiaigawa
The river supports sweetfish, pale chub, goby, herons, and ducks, all dependent on its clear spring water. Higashikurume's city symbol — the kingfisher, with its vivid blue-and-orange plumage — can be seen regularly along the riverbanks. The city's walking trail and spring-water guide map make it easy to spot wildlife at multiple points along the route.
A Summer Waterside Walking Course
In summer, children play in the waterside plaza along the Ochiaigawa, where spring water stays refreshingly cold even on the hottest days. A one-hour walking course leads from the Minamisawa springs downstream, passing several spring-water spots along the way. Early morning or early evening visits in summer are especially comfortable.
Getting There and What to Bring
The Minamisawa springs are about a 15-minute walk from Higashikurume Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. The city's spring-water guide map is available at local public facilities and is worth picking up in advance. In summer heat, bring insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and plenty of water.
Visit Higashikurume's Springs
The pristine condition of the Ochiaigawa and Minamisawa springs reflects years of community conservation and ongoing city stewardship. On a hot summer day, the cool spring water and the sight of kingfishers gliding above a clear river make Higashikurume well worth the visit.