What Is Zeniarai Benzaiten?

Founded in 1185, it originates from a divine dream received by Minamoto no Yoritomo—the first shogun of the Kamakura period.
He was told:

“If you worship the deities using the sacred spring water flowing from the northwest valley, peace will come to the land.”

A cave was dug, and the spring water—later known as Zeniarai-mizu (“Money-Washing Water”)—became a sacred place for prayers of prosperity and protection.

Blessings and Meaning of Money Washing

It is believed that washing your coins or banknotes in this sacred water turns them into “blessed money” that brings prosperity, successful business, and good fortune.
Traditionally, people use the washed money for positive purposes—believing that good intentions invite good fortune in return.

How to Wash Your Money and worship at Zeniarai Benzaiten Shrine

Before washing your money, it’s recommended to visit the Inner Sanctuary, the spiritual heart of the shrine.
(There is no strict rule to visit all shrines first, but many visitors enjoy exploring them afterward.)

Here are the steps for the main ritual:

Step 1 — Purify Your Hands

Use the purification fountain to rinse your hands and mouth lightly—preparing yourself spiritually before entering the cave.

Step 2 — Offer a Prayer at the Inner Sanctuary

Inside the cave, offer your prayer to Benzaiten, the deity of fortune, arts, and prosperity.

Step 3 — Buy Incense, a Candle, and Receive the Basket

Purchase a candle and incense; the bamboo basket is included for washing your money.

Step 4 — Light the Candle and Incense

Place the candle and incense in the designated sand bed and light them to purify the ritual space.

Step 5 — Place Your Money in the Basket

Put your coins or bills into the small bamboo basket.

Step 6 — Wash and Gently Rinse Your Money with Sacred Water

Gently pour the sacred spring water over the basket using a ladle.
You can lightly move the basket to ensure the water flows over the money.

Step 7 — Shake Off the Water and Let It Dry

Let your money dry and use it soon—ideally for something positive.

Other Shrines Within the Grounds

Exploring the smaller shrines around the cave offers a deeper connection to the spirit of Zeniarai Benzaiten.
There is no required order, but many visitors stop by after washing their money.

Kami-no-Mizu Shrine & Shimo-no-Mizu Shrine

These two small shrines protect the sacred spring.
It is said that the water continues to flow eternally thanks to these guardian deities.
Visitors often express gratitude here after completing the money-washing ritual.

Shichifuku Shrine

Dedicated to the Seven Gods of Good Fortune—
Ebisu, Daikokuten, Bishamonten, Benzaiten, Fukurokuju, Jurōjin, and Hotei. Originating in the Muromachi period, the Seven Gods of Good Fortune (Shichifukujin) became beloved throughout Japan as bringers of happiness, prosperity, and longevity.
It’s said that visiting all seven gods invites “seven blessings” into one’s life.

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