Kamakura | A different world through the cave: Money Laundering Benzaiten, which even the business world is crazy about

This unique shrine is a renowned power spot in Kamakura, where worshippers come to launder their money. This practice dates back to the Kamakura period, when even many businessmen came to launder their money, praying for prosperity. It's a bit remote, requiring an uphill climb and a passage through a cave to reach it.

The official name of Zeniarai Benzaiten is actually Ugafuku-jinja Shrine. Legend has it that Minamoto no Yoritomo dreamed of the water deity Ugafuku-jinja, who told him that offerings to a spring in the northwestern mountains would bring peace to the world. Consequently, Minamoto no Yoritomo ordered the construction of the shrine. Originally a simple deity, the shrine was later used by Hojo Tokiyori, the fifth shogun of Kamakura, to launder coins in the spring water, praying for business prosperity. This unexpectedly sparked a frenzy, with merchants flocking to launder their money, and the shrine has become a place of prosperity ever since.

Compared to other shrines, this one is unique and more temple-like. When you buy incense and candles at the shrine office, you'll get a bamboo sieve included. After paying your respects at the main hall, take the sieve to the Okunomiya to wash your money. The water here is one of the five famous springs, known as zenwashi springs. Place your money on the sieve, let it soak with the spring water, wipe it dry, and return it to your wallet.

Unlike other shrines where money is washed, legend has it that money here must be spent in order to make money grow.

📍Address: 2 Chome-25-16 Sasuke, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0017, Japan
🚗A 20-minute walk from Kamakura Station. The path is hilly, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
#9月好去2025

Post by 旅行中的野馬 | Sep 20, 2025