Tamadare Falls Spring Water

## Overview Tamadare Falls Spring Water is a natural spring located at the base of Tamadare-no-Taki (玉簾の滝), one of the most celebrated waterfalls in the Hakone hot spring region of Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Situated in the Yumoto area of Hakone — the gateway to one of Japan's most famous onsen (hot spring) districts — this spring has long been associated with the pure mountain waters that flow down from the volcanic slopes of the Hakone caldera. Tamadare-no-Taki, whose name translates roughly to "Jeweled Bamboo Screen Falls," is an approximately 8-meter-tall waterfall fed by natural spring water. The falls and surrounding area are part of the grounds of Tensei-en, a traditional Japanese garden maintained by the Hakone Hotel (天成園). The spring water here has historically been valued by locals and visitors alike, and the site has spiritual significance — a small Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of water stands near the falls, reflecting the deep cultural reverence for natural water sources in Japan. The GPS coordinates for this spring are 35.229164, 139.094698, placing it in the lush, forested valley of Hakone Yumoto at the eastern edge of the Hakone volcanic complex. ## Directions 1. From **Hakone-Yumoto Station** (the main gateway station on the Hakone Tozan Railway and Odakyu Romance Car line), exit the station and head southwest along the main road (National Route 1 / Tokaido). 2. Cross the Hayakawa River and continue along the road toward the hot spring hotel district. 3. Look for signs directing you to **Tensei-en (天成園)** or **Tamadare-no-Taki (玉簾の滝)**. The falls are located on the grounds of the Tensei-en hotel complex. 4. The walk from Hakone-Yumoto Station is approximately 10–15 minutes on foot. 5. Access to the waterfall and spring area within the Tensei-en garden is generally open to the public, though it is advisable to check current access conditions before visiting. ## What to Expect Visitors to Tamadare Falls Spring Water will find a serene, beautifully maintained setting nestled in the forested hills of Hakone Yumoto. The waterfall cascades over a rocky cliff face surrounded by dense greenery, creating a tranquil atmosphere even during busy tourist seasons. The spring water emerges naturally from the volcanic geology of the Hakone region, which is renowned throughout Japan for its mineral-rich waters. The area around the falls includes a small Shinto shrine and stone pathways, giving the site a contemplative, spiritual quality. The spring has historically been used as a source of drinking water, and visitors have reported the water to be clean and refreshing, though water quality can vary with weather and seasonal conditions. Hakone Yumoto is well-served by public transportation, making this an easy day trip from Tokyo (about 85 minutes by Odakyu Romance Car from Shinjuku Station). The area is especially scenic during autumn foliage season and in the lush green months of early summer. The falls and surrounding garden can be visited year-round, though the path may be slippery in wet conditions — sturdy footwear is recommended. Nearby, visitors can enjoy Hakone's famous hot spring baths, traditional ryokan inns, and the many hiking trails of the Hakone region.