Zeniaraibenzaiten Shrine 銭洗弁財天宇賀福神社

Kamakura's Zeniaraibenzaiten Shrine is one of the city's most visited places. Especially popular with people in the business world, it is said that performing a ritual coin washing here will multiply your wealth.

You can reach the shrine by train followed by a long walk or a taxi ride.

Zeniarai Benten Shrine is near Genjiyama Park, a 30-minute walk from Kamakura Station.

Legend says Zeniaraibenzaiten Shrine was established by Minamoto Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura Shogunate. A native god known as Ugafukujin appeared to him in a dream and described the location of a magical spring. After the shrine was established at the spot, it gradually became associated with financial success.

Zeniaraibenzaiten Shrine occupies a cave, and its spring flows through a trough in its atmospheric interior. Patrons believe performing the ritual of washing money in the spring water will bring cash flowing in.

Regardless of the ritual's efficacy, joining the patrons in performing it is easy. You will need candles, incense and a small dish-like basket available from the shrine's office—and, of course, some money. Most visitors only wash coins to avoid soggy cash. After all, the symbolism is the most important thing.

First, light one of the candles and place it at the shrine outside the cave. Once you enter the cave, light a stick of incense, offer a prayer, and place your second candle. Then comes the fun part of dipping your basket in the trough and letting the water do its magic.

Just watch the other patrons and follow their lead. When you are finished, visit nearby Shichifuku-jinja Shrine.