A Landscape Created by Volcanic Activity at Mount Sanbe
Ukinuno-no-Ike is a dammed lake formed through the volcanic activity of Mount Sanbe. Ancient eruptions and earthquakes blocked the flow of a river, causing water to accumulate and eventually creating the pond seen today.
The pond covers approximately 130,000 square meters and is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of about 3.5 meters. Its calm surface creates beautiful reflections of the surrounding landscape.
Mount Sanbe is a volcano with a caldera approximately 5 kilometers in diameter. Several peaks, including O-Sanbe, Me-Sanbe, and Ko-Sanbe, form its distinctive mountainous landscape.
When the weather is clear and the water is calm, the mountains are reflected almost perfectly on the surface of the pond. This beautiful scene is known as “Upside-Down Sanbe” and is one of the most memorable sights in the area.
The Tragic Love Legend of Nibe-hime and the Great Serpent
Ukinuno-no-Ike is also the setting of a romantic and tragic local legend. According to the story, Nibe-hime, the daughter of a wealthy family, fell in love with a young man who was actually a great serpent disguised as a human.
When the serpent disappeared, Nibe-hime followed him and eventually threw herself into the pond. Afterward, her clothing appeared on the surface of the water, forming a long white line that looked like a piece of white cloth floating across the pond.
This mysterious sight is said to have given the pond its name, Ukinuno-no-Ike, meaning roughly “Pond of the Floating Cloth.” The story continues to capture the imagination of visitors and adds a sense of mystery to the peaceful landscape.
A Shinto torii gate stands in the water, while a shrine dedicated to Nibe-hime is located quietly on the opposite shore. The combination of the torii, still water, mountains, and surrounding vegetation creates a serene and almost mystical scene.
A Scenic Place Remembered in the Man’yoshu
Ukinuno-no-Ike is also associated with the Man’yoshu, Japan’s oldest surviving major collection of poetry. A poem attributed to the renowned poet Kakinomoto no Hitomaro describes the scenery of a pond while expressing feelings for a beloved person.
The poem reflects the quiet beauty of the water and the emotions associated with gathering water plants. Its connection with ancient Japanese poetry suggests that the landscape around Ukinuno-no-Ike has inspired people’s imaginations for many centuries.
Discovering Nature Along the Observation Trail
A nature observation trail has been established around Ukinuno-no-Ike, allowing visitors to experience the area’s plants and wildlife at close range. The area forms part of the Daisen-Oki National Park and has also been recognized as a component cultural property of a Japan Heritage story.
The trail provides opportunities to observe a variety of insects, wild birds, and small animals throughout the year. During the summer vacation season, the area is particularly popular with families looking for an enjoyable outdoor experience.
Spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn transforms the surrounding landscape with colorful foliage. The scenery changes significantly with the seasons, making the pond worth visiting at different times of the year.
Several uncommon plants can also be found in the area, including Hirohano-kawarasai-ko, Yusuge daylilies, and Okinagusa. These plants add to the ecological richness of the landscape and make the observation trail especially appealing to nature enthusiasts.
Enjoy the Scenery from the Water
Visitors can also enjoy the scenery from the surface of the pond by renting a boat. Slowly moving across the calm water provides a different perspective on Mount Sanbe and the surrounding landscape.
On days with little wind, the surface becomes almost mirror-like, reflecting the mountains and sky in a dreamlike panorama. A leisurely boat ride is an appealing way to escape the bustle of everyday life and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Sanbe countryside.
A Beloved Place for the Local Community
Ukinuno-no-Ike is not only a destination for tourists but also an important recreational area for local residents. Community volunteers have helped protect the landscape through activities such as tree planting and environmental conservation.
Accommodation facilities, including pensions, can also be found near the pond. Staying in the area allows visitors to slow down and enjoy the natural surroundings rather than simply making a short sightseeing stop.
The harmony between the natural environment and local community gives Ukinuno-no-Ike a welcoming atmosphere and reflects the close relationship between people and nature in the Sanbe region.
Access and Travel Tips
Ukinuno-no-Ike can be reached from JR Oda-shi Station by bus in approximately 35 minutes, followed by a walk of about 15 minutes.
The pond is especially enjoyable when combined with sightseeing around Mount Sanbe. On a clear, calm day, visitors may want to time their visit in hopes of seeing the beautiful “Upside-Down Sanbe” reflected on the water.
With opportunities for nature observation and boating as well as quiet walks, Ukinuno-no-Ike is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including families and couples looking for a peaceful place to spend time together.
A Place Where Nature, Legend, and History Come Together
Ukinuno-no-Ike brings together the magnificent natural landscape of Mount Sanbe, the tragic legend of Nibe-hime, and a history of appreciation that reaches back to the age of the Man’yoshu.
The calm water, seasonal flowers and foliage, wildlife, and reflections of the surrounding mountains create a landscape that changes throughout the year. At the same time, the story of Nibe-hime and the torii standing in the water give the pond an unmistakably mysterious character.
For travelers exploring Mount Sanbe and the wider Oda City area, Ukinuno-no-Ike offers an opportunity to experience the natural beauty, folklore, and ancient cultural heritage of Shimane in one peaceful setting.