Kinjo Reitaku

Kanazawa Shrine stands right beside the famous garden Kenrokuen in Kanazawa. Within its precinct wells the quiet spring of Kinjo Reitaku. Long ago a man called Imohori Togoro washed yams in this spring water and found a great deal of gold dust, and the resulting name Sawa for Washing Gold is said to have given Kanazawa, meaning marsh of gold, its name.

Highlights

- The legendary spring said to have given Kanazawa its name, quietly passed down as a power spot for wealth - The stone shelter covering the spring. Though right next to the bustling Kenrokuen, it is an easily overlooked hidden gem - Kanazawa Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, god of learning, with deities of wealth and protection from misfortune also enshrined alongside

Enjoying the Seasons

Adjacent to Kenrokuen, it can be visited alongside the garden beauty of each season, from cherry blossoms in spring and greenery in summer to autumn colors and the snow ropes of winter. It is a perfect place to drop by during sightseeing and quietly bring your palms together.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Kenrokumachi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa (within Kanazawa Shrine) - Access: From JR Kanazawa Station, take a bus to Kenrokuen-shita Kanazawa-jo or Hirosaka 21st Century Museum, then a short walk - Hours: Grounds open freely (the shrine office has set hours) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

Locals say to hold your breath and circle the spring three times clockwise while reciting your wish. Pairing it with Kenrokuen makes for an efficient route, so build it into your sightseeing plan.