Maimaisu Well

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Maimaisu Well

A reconstruction of a Heian-period well distinguished by its snail-like spiral shape

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Fuchu City Kyodonomori Museum showcases the history, natural environment, and distinctive features of Fuchu across its expansive grounds of approximately 140,000 square meters. In one corner stands Maimaisu Well, a reconstruction of a massive ancient well.

Originally dug in the town surrounding the ancient provincial government office, the well features a distinctive spiral path leading down to the water-drawing area. Its name comes from “maimai,” another Japanese word for snail, reflecting the well’s snail-like shape. It was reconstructed based on archaeological remains from the Heian period.

Maimaisu wells are thought to have developed in areas with a low groundwater table and can be found across the Musashino Plateau and the Izu Islands. Some remained in use between 1955 and 1964.

Fuchu City Kyodonomori Museum offers many other attractions, including a permanent exhibition room displaying a wealth of valuable materials. Its planetarium, which requires a separate admission fee, is also popular, making the museum an engaging place to learn while exploring.

Highlights

  • The reconstructed remains of a well located on the grounds of Fuchu City Kyodonomori Museum.
  • A distinctive spiral path leads down into the well. Its shape inspired the name “maimai,” meaning “snail” in Japanese.
  • The permanent exhibition room in the museum’s main building introduces the history, culture, and natural environment of Fuchu.
  • The planetarium in the main building recreates a highly realistic starry sky and presents a wide variety of programs, including original productions by the museum.
  • Buildings that once stood in the city from the Meiji through Showa periods have been relocated and reconstructed throughout the grounds. Some are open for visitors to explore inside.

Videos

Photos

  • The well is distinguished by its spiral shape

    The well is distinguished by its spiral shape

  • The museum’s main building, the central facility of Kyodonomori

    The museum’s main building, the central facility of Kyodonomori

  • The plum trees and reconstructed buildings are also worth seeing

    The plum trees and reconstructed buildings are also worth seeing

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Is parking available?

A

Yes. There is a free dedicated parking lot with space for approximately 400 vehicles.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available on the grounds?

A

Yes. Please use Fuchu City’s official free Wi-Fi service.

Q

Are coin-operated lockers available?

A

Yes.

Q

Are wheelchairs available?

A

Yes. A limited number are available to borrow free of charge.

Q

Are strollers allowed?

A

Yes. Strollers are allowed, and rentals are also available for a fee.

Q

Are pets allowed?

A

No. To protect the reconstructed buildings and plants on the grounds, only guide dogs, hearing assistance dogs, and mobility assistance dogs are permitted.

Reviews

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    There are about 10,000 hydrangeas in the park, plus a plum garden with over 60 varieties. Besides the local museum, there are also several old buildings relocated and preserved from different parts of Fuchu. Really interesting place to explore.

Details

Name in Japanese
まいまいず井戸
Postal Code
183-0026
Address
6-32 Minamicho, Fuchu City, Tokyo
Phone
042-368-7921 (Fuchu City Kyodonomori Museum)
Closed on
Mondays (or the following day when Monday is a national holiday), the New Year holidays, and occasional temporary closure days
Hours
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (last admission at 4:00 p.m.)
Admission
Museum admission: ¥300 for adults and ¥150 for junior high school students and younger
Access
Approximately 6 minutes by bus bound for Kyodonomori General Gymnasium from Bubaigawara Station on the JR Nambu and Keio lines; get off at the Kyodonomori Seimon-mae bus stop, located immediately outside the museum
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official website
Official website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa