The region is picturesque, with relatively fertile hills and spring sources.
Contemporary studies indicate favourable water quality levels at the spring source.
The Friends was formed in 2001 when development on steep slopes near the creek's artesian spring source threatened its existence and quality.
Shiga-kōgen ski resort is home to over seven natural hot spring sources.
The water temperature at the spring source is 72 C (162 F).
Some maples are an early spring source of pollen and nectar for bees.
The fresh water comes from an underground spring source.
It consists of small ceramic pipes, boxed in an underground stone tunnel, stretching back to the spring source more than 200 meters away.
This may in part have been due to the high lead content of the local spring sources.
There are about 500 places operating as spring sources.
