The Hand Basin Shrine, located in Akita Prefecture, is a Shinto site dedicated to the kami of water and purification. The shrine's name 'Hand Basin' reflects its unique feature of being designed to resemble a large hand basin, symbolizing the power of water to cleanse and purify. Visitors can experience the serene atmosphere and explore the tranquil grounds surrounding this sacred site.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Mizu-no-kami
- Kami enshrined
- Mizu-no-kami, Shinobu-no-kami
- Coordinates
- 39.7176046, 140.1743958
Visitor tip
To cleanse your hands before entering the shrine, take a few moments to fill the small basin with water and purify yourself with a gentle splash.
Cultural notes
In Japanese mythology, water is associated with the kami of purification, known as 'Mizu-no-kami'. The Hand Basin Shrine honors this connection by offering prayers and ceremonies for water-based purification rituals.
Historical note
The Hand Basin Shrine was built in the Edo period (1603-1868) as part of the Akita region's traditional Shinto settlements.