Beppu Benten Pond

Overview

Beppu Benten Pond is located within the grounds of Beppu Itsukushima Shrine in Akifusa-cho, Mine City, Yamaguchi Prefecture. Its remarkable clarity allows you to see to the bottom of the approximately 4-meter-deep pond. Situated in the Akishimadai karst plateau, the water springs from the bottom of a doline. Depending on the angle of the sunlight, it shimmers in shades of cobalt and turquoise blue. The water of Beppu Benten Pond is believed to originate from water that permeates the non-calcareous chert distributed at the northern end of the Akishimadai plateau and emerges as groundwater from other aquifers. Along with Akiyoshido Cave, it's a leading tourist attraction of Akishimadai. While both Beppu Benten Pond and Akiyoshido Cave's spring water share the characteristic calcium-bicarbonate water quality of karst regions, there are significant differences in their electrical conductivity and other properties. In 1985, the spring water of Beppu Benten Pond was selected as one of Japan's 100 Best Waters and is used as drinking water by local residents. It's also designated as a geopark site of the Mine Akishimadai Geopark, serving as a symbolic landmark of the park. Other tourist spots such as Akiyoshido Cave and Kagesukiyo-ana Cave are located nearby, allowing you to fully enjoy the charms of Akishimadai. When visiting Akishimadai, be sure to visit Beppu Benten Pond.