Maruike-sama is a mysterious and beautiful pond in the Shonai region of Yamagata Prefecture. Its emerald-green surface takes on subtly different appearances depending on the light and weather, making it one of the area’s most distinctive scenic attractions.
The pond is approximately 20 meters in diameter and 3.5 meters deep. It is filled entirely by natural spring water. Because the water is exceptionally clear, visitors can see spring water bubbling up from the bottom of the pond.
The emerald-green color of the water changes subtly depending on the angle of the sunlight and the weather on the day of your visit. Reflections of the surrounding trees on the surface add to the pond’s mysterious and dreamlike atmosphere.
Maruike-sama is located within the grounds associated with Chokaizan Omonoimi Shrine, and the surrounding area retains a rich natural environment. Enclosed by dense trees, the pond has a peaceful atmosphere that feels very different from a typical tourist attraction.
For generations, local people have regarded Maruike-sama as a place of spiritual importance. Its appeal therefore lies not only in its extraordinary beauty but also in the sacred atmosphere that surrounds it. In recent years, the pond has also attracted many visitors looking for its photogenic scenery, and it has become known as one of the Shonai region’s most striking photo spots.
Numerous trees grow around Maruike-sama, creating the impression of a beautiful pond quietly hidden deep within the forest. The contrast between the vivid emerald-green water and the surrounding greenery leaves a strong impression on visitors.
Several fallen trees can also be seen beneath the surface. Thanks to the conditions created by the spring water, they have remained remarkably well preserved rather than simply decaying. Their forms visible underwater add another layer of mystery to the landscape.
For centuries, the pond has been respectfully known as “Maruike-sama,” a name that expresses reverence for the site. Beside the pond stands Maruike Shrine, which regards the pond itself as its sacred object of worship.
Understanding that this beautiful pond is also a place of faith that local communities have carefully protected over many generations can give visitors a deeper appreciation of the landscape.
Maruike-sama is also associated with an intriguing traditional legend. During the Former Nine Years’ War, Kamatari Gengoro Kagemasa is said to have been struck by an enemy arrow that pierced one of his eyes.
According to the legend, Kagemasa continued searching for the enemy who had shot him for three days and three nights, eventually defeating him. It is then said that Kagemasa washed his wounded eye in this pond.
Another local tradition is connected to this story. It is said that the fish living in Maruike-sama are all one-eyed as a sign of respect for Kagemasa.
Whether viewed as folklore or as part of the area’s spiritual heritage, this story illustrates how Maruike-sama is connected not only to nature but also to the beliefs, legends, and cultural traditions of the local community.
Near Maruike-sama flows the Ushiwatari River. Almost all of the river’s water is said to come from natural springs, creating an exceptionally clear and pure stream.
The river’s crystal-clear water and surrounding natural environment provide ideal conditions for baika-mo, or water crowfoot, a plant often associated with clean streams.
In early summer, green baika-mo plants sway gently beneath the cool, transparent water of the river. Small white flowers bloom above the underwater greenery, creating a delicate scene unique to the Ushiwatari River.
Even during the hottest part of summer, the river remains cool. Visitors can observe the exceptionally clear water and the plants growing beneath its surface at close range.
Combining a visit to the Ushiwatari River with Maruike-sama provides an opportunity to experience the rich natural environment created by Shonai’s abundant spring water.
From autumn through winter, visitors may also have the opportunity to see large numbers of salmon swimming upstream through the Ushiwatari River. The river’s clean, spring-fed environment provides a habitat for salmon and many other forms of aquatic life.
Watching salmon powerfully swimming through the transparent water offers a completely different seasonal experience from the delicate baika-mo flowers of early summer.
Maruike-sama changes its appearance not only according to the light but also with the surrounding natural landscape. During the fresh-green season, the lush forest forms a beautiful contrast with the emerald-colored surface of the pond. In early summer, the baika-mo blooming in the Ushiwatari River adds another highlight to the scenery.
From autumn into winter, the sight of salmon migrating upstream brings yet another seasonal dimension to the area. Each season offers visitors a different way to experience the natural beauty of Maruike-sama and the Ushiwatari River.
Maruike-sama is a special place where a beautiful spring-fed pond, dense forest, local faith, and traditional legends come together.
The mesmerizing emerald-green water is only part of its appeal. Visitors can also see Maruike Shrine, where the pond itself is revered as a sacred object, learn about the legend of Kamatari Gengoro Kagemasa, and explore the clear waters of the Ushiwatari River, where baika-mo flowers bloom in early summer and salmon migrate upstream from autumn through winter.
With scenery that naturally invites photography and a long history of local reverence, Maruike-sama offers more than a beautiful view. It is a place where visitors can experience the mysterious natural landscape, spiritual traditions, and seasonal beauty of the Shonai region.