Crystal Mt. Fuji Ponds: Oshino Hakkai Explained
If you are planning a trip near Mt. Fuji, you have probably heard of a beautiful spot called Oshino Hakkai.
It is famous for its crystal-clear ponds filled with snowmelt from Mt. Fuji.
But have you ever wondered what the name “Oshino Hakkai” actually means? It is a bit of a puzzle!
Let’s break down the name and learn some fun Japanese trivia. Also, let me share the photos during my Oshino Hakkai tour.
“Oshino” is a village name
The first part is easy. Oshino (忍野) is simply the name of the village where these ponds are located.
It is a peaceful, small village nestled at the foot of Mt. Fuji.
Map of Oshino Village
The Magic Number: “Hachi / Ha” (8)
The second part, Hakkai, is where it gets interesting. It combines two words.
The first sound comes from the Kanji 八, which means the number 8.
In Japanese, Kanji can be tricky because they have multiple ways to be read:
- Hachi: The standard way to count (1, 2, 3…).
- Ha / Hat: A shortened version used when combined with other words to make it flow better.
So, even though the number is “Hachi,” when it meets the next word “Kai,” it snaps together to become Hakkai. It is easier to say than “Hachi-Kai”!
The final sound : “Kai” (Sea)
The final sound comes from the Kanji 海 (Kai/ Umi), which means Sea. Just like the number 8, this character has different readings:
- Umi: The Japanese word for the ocean (e.g., “Let’s go to the umi” 海にいこう).
- Kai: The reading used in compound words.
But wait… why is it called a “Sea”?
If you visit Oshino Hakkai, you will see ponds, not an ocean! In Japanese, a pond is usually called an Ike. So, why isn’t it called “Oshino Eight Ponds”?
The “Fuji” Connection
Long ago, these eight ponds were considered very sacred. The water comes directly from the melting snow of Mt. Fuji, filtering through lava rocks for over 80 years before bubbling up here.
Because the water was so pure, and the spiritual connection to the great Mt. Fuji was so strong, the people of the past felt the word “Pond” was too small. To show respect and honor the greatness of the water, they chose the word Sea (Kai).
Summary
So, when you visit Oshino Hakkai, you aren’t just visiting “Eight Ponds.”
- Oshino: The Village.
- Ha (Hachi): The Eight.
- Kai: The “Seas” (Sacred Ponds).
You are visiting the “Eight Sacred Seas of Oshino Village.”
Now that you know the secret meaning behind the name, the view of the water reflecting Mt. Fuji might look even more magical!
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