Minase Shrine Spring, Shimamoto, Osaka, Mishima District, Japan

## Overview Minase Shrine Spring is a cherished public drinking spring located on the grounds of Minase Shrine (水無瀬神宮) in Shimamoto, Mishima District, just outside central Osaka. The spring is one of the most beloved natural water sources in the Osaka region, and locals regularly visit to collect water, often lining up with containers in hand. The shrine grounds provide a serene, beautifully maintained setting that makes the visit worthwhile even beyond the water itself. The spring is dispensed through a spigot and also feeds a drinking trough, sheltered beneath a canopy. Drinking cups are provided on-site for visitors. Minase Shrine has deep historical roots — it was established to enshrine Emperor Go-Toba (1180–1239), who was known for his devotion to poetry and the arts. The shrine's spring water has historically been prized for its clarity and taste, and it has long been considered one of the finest natural water sources in the Osaka area. Visitors have reported that the water tastes exceptionally clean and refreshing. ## Directions The spring is located at or near 〒618-0011 大阪府三島郡島本町広瀬3丁目10-24 (Shimamoto-chō, Mishima-gun, Osaka-fu). It is very easily accessible by public transit. 1. **By train:** Take the Hankyu Kyoto Line to **Minase Station** (水無瀬駅). 2. From the station, walk northeast along the rail line. 3. After approximately eight minutes, you will reach a **five-way intersection** where a road passes under the rail lines. 4. At this intersection, turn **left** — but not sharply; take the gentle left fork — and continue down the road until it ends at a **T-intersection**. 5. At the T-intersection, turn **left**. 6. Minase Shrine should be clearly visible ahead. The **shrine entrance** is on the left side. 7. The spring is located within the shrine grounds. ## What to Expect Minase Shrine Spring is one of the most accessible natural springs in the greater Osaka area, making it an excellent stop for travelers and locals alike. The spring area features a spigot for filling bottles, a drinking trough, a sheltering canopy, and communal drinking cups — a setup that reflects the longstanding Japanese tradition of sharing clean spring water. The shrine grounds are tranquil and well-kept, with monks residing on the property. Based on the original submitter's experience, the spring appears to be accessible around the clock, as no gates were observed. However, since the spring is located on active shrine property, visiting during **daylight hours** is recommended as a courtesy to the resident monks and to fully appreciate the beauty of the grounds. Expect to see local residents filling containers — this is a popular water collection spot and a living part of the community. The surrounding area of Shimamoto is pleasant for walking, and the journey from Minase Station is straightforward and scenic. Whether you're a spring water enthusiast, a history lover, or simply looking for a peaceful detour from the bustle of Osaka, Minase Shrine Spring is well worth the visit.