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What Are the Great Keyaki of Hachiman and the Water of Longevity?
If you visit Minamiaizu, Fukushima Prefecture, two must-see spots are the Great Keyaki of Hachiman and the Water of Longevity, both located in Shimogō Town. The Great Keyaki is a massive zelkova tree nearly 1,000 years old, regarded as a natural treasure of the region. The Water of Longevity is a famous spring that flows from the foot of Takakura Mountain, and, as its name suggests, it has long been believed that drinking this water brings long life. Both sites are situated in the Nakayama area along the Shimono Highway (Aizu Nishi Kaidō), a route historically traveled by feudal lords during the Edo period, and have been cherished by travelers and locals alike for centuries.
The Great Keyaki of Hachiman and the Water of Longevity are only about 5 minutes apart by car, making it easy to visit both and experience the majesty of nature in this historic region.
A Thousand-Year-Old Zelkova and Shimogō Town’s Hidden Spring
The Great Keyaki of Hachiman, estimated to be around 1,000 years old, stands majestically along the prefectural road, reaching a height of approximately 34.5 meters with a trunk circumference of about 12 meters. Looking up at this giant zelkova, comparable in height to a 12-story building, you can’t help but be awed by its massive trunk, sprawling branches, and sheer presence.
The tree exudes a sacred, timeless atmosphere, reflecting the millennium it has stood through, and the surrounding area feels quietly solemn and serene. While the trunk bears a large hollow that hints at its ancient age, its branches remain lush and green, demonstrating remarkable vitality. In autumn, the Keyaki’s golden leaves create a breathtaking contrast against the surrounding mountains’ fall foliage.
Nearby, the Water of Longevity springs forth from the base of Mount Takakura, at an altitude of 1,308 meters. The clear, fresh water flows abundantly year-round, maintaining a constant supply. With a temperature of around 10°C (50°F), the water is cool, smooth, and remarkably easy to drink.
The spring is equipped with a wooden sign and a well-maintained water collection area, allowing visitors to freely taste the water or fill containers to take home. Refreshing yourself with this pristine spring water is sure to revitalize you during your journey and provide a memorable experience in Shimogō Town.
Highlights of The Great Keyaki of Hachiman and the Water of Longevity
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Delicious, Refreshingly Cold Water All Year Round
Recommended Ways to Enjoy your Visit
The Great Keyaki of Hachiman and the Water of Longevity are located very close to each other, making it easy to visit both in a short amount of time. Start by stopping at the Keyaki along the prefectural road to admire its majestic presence up close. From there, it’s only about a 5-minute drive uphill to reach the Water of Longevity. The scenic route itself is beautiful, offering views of Minamiaizu’s lush natural landscapes from the car.
Each season brings a unique charm to the Great Keyaki of Hachiman. From spring to summer, the tree is covered in fresh green leaves, and the cool shade provides a refreshing respite on hot days. In autumn, the Keyaki turns golden, creating a spectacular backdrop alongside the surrounding mountains—an ideal photo spot. During winter, the bare branches of the Keyaki stand majestically against a snowy landscape, evoking the serene beauty of an ink painting.
Nearby attractions include Ōuchi-juku, a famous Edo-period post town connecting Aizu-Wakamatsu and Nikko. It’s a great idea to combine a stroll through Ōuchi-juku with visits to the Great Keyaki of Hachiman and the Water of Longevity, which are about 20 minutes by car from Ōuchi-juku. This makes for a fulfilling trip where you can enjoy both Aizu’s rich culture and natural beauty in a single outing.
Spot Information
Spot Name：Great Keyaki of Hachiman / Water of Longevity (Takakura-yama Spring)
Open Hours・Closed Days：Open to the public 24 hours / Open year-round
Fee：Free
Parking：No dedicated parking; roadside spaces available nearby
Access
Address：Nakayama, Shimogō Town, Minamiaizu District, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan
Access：
- By car：approx. 15 min from Aizu-Shimogō Station (Aizu Railway)/By car: approx. 20 min from Ōuchi-juku
SPOT
A Great Tree That Radiates Powerful Energy