Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine (銭洗弁財天宇賀福神社)
What is Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine (銭洗弁財天宇賀福神社)? — History and Origins
Hidden quietly in a valley surrounded by steep rocky cliffs of Kamakura (鎌倉), Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine traces its beginnings back to the late 12th century. According to legend, the first Kamakura shogun, Minamoto no Yoritomo (源頼朝), had a prophetic dream to excavate a cave and enshrine the deity Ugafuku-jin (宇賀福神), a water god with a human head and snake’s body believed to bring prosperity, wealth, thriving businesses, and family fortune. In the Kamakura period, Hojo Tokiyori (北条時頼), the fifth regent, washed coins in the shrine’s sacred spring on a special day associated with financial luck, making this site one of Japan’s most famous power spots for wealth.
Highlights — Unique Scenery, Architecture, and Nature
Entering the shrine, you’ll pass through a rocky tunnel built in the late 1950s. This passageway opens onto a fresh, sacred approach lined with simple white torii gates, evoking an atmosphere of both solemnity and rustic charm—perfect for memorable photos. On special days, lanterns light up the path, but be aware that it becomes very dark after sunset. At the inner sanctuary, a cave carved into the rock is filled with strings of paper cranes and donated torii gates, leading visitors into a mystical world. All around, pure spring water flows through the grounds, with waterfalls and red bridges creating beautiful, tranquil scenes that embody the harmony of nature and faith.
Spiritual Benefits and Cultural Significance
This shrine is famous for its blessings of increased financial luck and prosperous business. The “Zeniarai Mizu” (銭洗水)—one of the Five Famous Waters of Kamakura—bubbles up from within the cave, and it’s believed that money washed here will multiply and return to you. A unique custom is the offering of raw eggs, a favorite food of Ugafuku-jin, the snake deity. These can be purchased on site and are especially popular during special days such as “Mi-no-hi” (巳の日) and “Tsuchi-no-to-mi-no-hi” (己巳の日). The shrine is also spiritually linked with Sasuke Inari Shrine (佐助稲荷神社), and visiting both is said to further amplify good fortune.
Local Experiences — Rituals, Snacks, and Culture
A must-try experience is the coin-washing ritual in the cave: place your coins or bills in a special bamboo basket and carefully wash them in the spring water. Within the grounds, you’ll find Shichifuku Chaya and Benten Chaya, where you can enjoy sweet treats like amazake (a warm rice drink), rice dumplings, or fried mochi. These are perfect for a break after worship or a peaceful rest during your walk. Enjoy the simple flavors and the calm atmosphere as you relax within the grounds.
Omikuji, Goshuin, and Unique Traditions
At the shrine office, you can draw a traditional paper omikuji (fortune slip) or try the special “Mizu Omikuji,” where hidden messages appear when touched with sacred water. Original goshuin stamps and stamp books are also available for collectors. Lucky charms like the “Zeni-game” (money turtle), “Goho-sen” (protective coin), or “Otaka Koban” (miniature gold coin) can be purchased, and when receiving an amulet or ema, a fire-striking ritual is performed for purification—a uniquely Japanese experience.
Access and Opening Hours
Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine is about a 20-minute walk from the west exit of JR Kamakura Station (鎌倉駅), with old-style cafés and wagashi shops along the way for you to enjoy. By bus, get off at “Homukyoku-mae” (法務局前) and walk 11 minutes. A taxi takes about 6 minutes, but the final approach is a steep slope, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The grounds are open 24 hours, but it is extremely dark after sunset. The shrine office and coin-washing experience are available from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, with last entry for coin-washing at 4:00 pm.
Best Times and Seasons to Visit
The shrine gets crowded on Mi-no-hi (days of the snake in the lunar calendar) and holidays, so visit on weekdays or early in the morning for a quieter experience. Early mornings are perfect for those staying at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス) who want to stop by before or after breakfast. In the evenings, the atmosphere is even more serene but very dark, so it’s best to visit earlier for safety. The grounds are especially beautiful with cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves, and festivals in April and September attract many visitors.
Nearby Spots — Explore Kamakura on Foot
Around the shrine, you’ll find plenty of walking routes that showcase Kamakura’s unique blend of history and nature. Genjiyama Park (源氏山公園) can be reached by hiking trail for forest walks and seasonal flowers. There are also routes to Sasuke Inari Shrine and the Great Buddha of Kamakura (鎌倉大仏), with charming old houses, cafés, and shops along the way—perfect for leisurely strolls and tasting local sweets.
Who Should Visit? — Recommended for Various Travel Styles
This spot is ideal for those interested in Japanese spirituality, mysterious power spots, or seeking a boost in financial luck. If you love hiking, unique photo opportunities, or wish to experience life as a local, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. For guests staying at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス), it’s easy to take advantage of your flexible schedule, enjoying the shrine during peaceful morning or evening hours and making your own meals with local ingredients for a “live like a local” experience.
Wrap-Up: Why Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine Should Be on Your Kamakura Itinerary
Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine is a truly unique power spot where rocks, water, nature, and faith come together. From the mystical cave and coin-washing ritual to raw egg offerings and sacred customs, you’ll experience the rich spiritual culture of Japan. Early morning or evening visits help you avoid crowds and savor quiet moments, filling your heart (and wallet!) with good fortune. Make it part of your stay at Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス) for a memorable Kamakura adventure.