Area Guide

[Kanagawa] Zeniarai Benzaiten Ugafuku Shrine (弁財天宇賀福神社): Popularly Known as Zeniarai Benten, a Shinto Shrine in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture

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The Mystical Allure of Kamakura’s Zeniara Benten Shrine: Where Legends and Fortune Intertwine

Nestled in the heart of Kamakura, the Zeniara Benten Shrine beckons visitors with its enchanting allure. As you approach the shrine, a sense of mysticism envelops you, drawing you closer to the entrance that lies hidden within a rock formation. Step through this natural portal, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a sacred space, where multiple torii gates stand sentinel, guarding the secrets of the shrine’s legendary past.

Legend has it that the Zeniara Benten Shrine owes its existence to a divine dream that visited Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura shogunate. In the year 1185, the first year of Bunji, Yoritomo was guided by the deity Ugafukujin to enshrine the deity and make religious offerings at this very spot. From that moment on, the shrine became a beacon of hope and prosperity for those who sought its blessings.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Zeniara Benten Shrine is the mysterious cave that lies within its grounds. It is said that the pure water flowing through this cave possesses the power to multiply coins and other items washed in its crystal-clear streams. This legend can be traced back to the year 1257, when Hojo Tokiyori, a prominent figure of the time, visited the shrine and washed his coins in the sacred water, praying for the prosperity of his clan.

Today, the Zeniara Benten Shrine is revered as a power spot for those seeking to enhance their financial fortune. Visitors from far and wide flock to the shrine, hoping to harness the magic of the coin-washing water. It is believed that by using the money washed in this sacred water meaningfully, one can attract abundance and improve their financial luck.

As you explore the grounds of the shrine, you’ll find yourself enveloped by the beauty of nature. The sacred space is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere that invites introspection and reflection. The multiple torii gates that punctuate the landscape add to the shrine’s mystical aura, reminding visitors of the divine presence that permeates the area.

Whether you’re seeking financial blessings or simply wish to immerse yourself in the rich history and legend of the Zeniara Benten Shrine, a visit to this enchanting spot in Kamakura is sure to leave a lasting impression. As you step back through the rock entrance, you’ll carry with you a piece of the shrine’s magic, a reminder of the power of faith and the enduring allure of ancient traditions.

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