What is the Kawai Guardian Deity Water Spring in Chibu?

It's a natural spring in Chibu associated with a local guardian deity. The spring is considered sacred and its water is traditionally used for spiritual purification and possibly drinking.

Are there any festivals or special events held at the Kawai Guardian Deity Water Spring?

Many such springs host annual festivals, but I don't have specific information about events at this particular spring. Contact local tourism offices for current festival schedules.

Is there a shrine or temple associated with the spring?

Many guardian deity springs have a small shrine nearby for worship and offerings. Whether this specific spring has one would need to be confirmed through local sources or a visit.

How do I properly show respect when visiting?

Bow before approaching, rinse your hands and mouth if there's a purification basin, speak quietly, don't litter, and if making an offering, bow before and after. Avoid stepping directly on sacred areas or touching shrine structures.

Kawai Guardian Deity Water Spring

4.1 (31)Tourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

The Kawai Guardian Deity Water Spring is located on Chiburijima Island, part of Chibu Village in the Oki Islands archipelago in the Sea of Japan, approximately 40-80 kilometers north of Shimane Prefecture. The spring sits along a roadside on the island's smallest inhabited territory, which has a population of around 600 residents. This natural spring has served the local community since ancient times and has been designated as one of the Top 100 Exquisite and Well-Conserved Waters of Shimane Prefecture, recognized for both its quality and cultural preservation.

The spring holds deep cultural significance for the island's inhabitants, who visit daily to collect drinking water and pray for household health and safety. The site features a distinctive row of jizō bodhisattva statues that stand as guardian deities watching over the spring. These traditional Buddhist statues serve as protective figures, creating a serene spiritual atmosphere where villagers pause to offer prayers before filling their water bottles. The spring represents the intersection of practical necessity and spiritual practice in island life, embodying the self-sufficient lifestyle historically maintained by Chiburijima's residents.

Visitors encounter a tranquil roadside setting where the spring flows naturally under the watchful presence of the stone jizō figures. The location serves as an ideal first stop for those arriving on the island, offering both refreshment and an introduction to local customs. The site exemplifies the relationship between Chiburijima's natural resources and community traditions, particularly significant on an island where flat land is scarce and residents have historically relied on fishing and cattle raising for their livelihood.

Chiburijima Island is accessible via the Oki Kisen Ferry Line from Shichirui Port on mainland Honshu, with the ferry journey taking approximately 2.5 hours to reach Kurii Port. From there, inter-island ferries connect to other Oki Islands. Visitors can also fly to Dōgo Island's airport and take connecting ferries. Transportation on the island includes rental cars, electric bicycles, or walking, with the spring located along the main road network connecting the island's seven hamlets.

What other travelers are saying about Kawai Guardian Deity Water Spring

The water is cold and delicious. It's an essential route when sightseeing on Chiburi Island, so it's easy to access. However, be aware that there is a lot of traffic and no parking spaces.

sea turtle

Aug 30, 2025

This spring is surrounded by Jizo statues. It has been selected as one of Shimane's 100 famous springs. It's not far from Kuri Port, so if you're visiting Chiburi Island, I highly recommend checking it out.

This spring is one of Shimane's 100 famous springs, and has long been known for its health benefits. The water volume and temperature are stable throughout the year, and it has never dried up. Because it contains few bacteria, it is drinkable straight from the source. The spring is located along the road, and there are a row of Jizo statues lined up. They are well-maintained, and it appears that they are as treasured by the islanders as the spring itself. I was given some water while sightseeing on foot around the island. On Chiburi Island, the only vending machines available are in the village and port, so it's difficult to stay hydrated, so this was a great help. There's nothing particularly special about the water; it's tasteless and odorless. Parking is on the side of the road. The road is wide and there's little traffic, so I think it's fine if you pull over.

It has been selected as one of the "100 Famous Waters of Shimane" and is popular among islanders for drinking water and cooking. This spring water has never dried up. It has a plentiful flow and is cold, delicious water. Chiburijima is also known for being an island rich in water, with wells dug right next to the coast and springs gushing out near the mountaintop.

While walking, clear water comes out of the raccoon. Perfect for staying hydrated during your walk 👍