Tanegaike Bentenmiya

About 1.3 kilometers from the Tottori Sand Dunes, only a few minutes by car, lies a quiet body of water called Lake Tanegaike. On its shore stands Tanegaike Bentenmiya. Step away from the bustle of the dunes and the air seems to clear, opening into a calm world. The shrine enshrines Benzaiten, the goddess of wealth and fortune, and locals have long known it affectionately as Otane Benten.

A legend tells of a woman named Otane who changed into a white serpent in this lake. She is said to have crossed to an island in the lake to gather persimmons for the household she served, and in time she became the spirit of the water. Even now, people quietly visit to pray for wealth and good fortune.

Highlights

- The shrine hall standing quietly on the lakeshore - The legend of Otane, tied to the white serpent said to be Benzaiten messenger - Distinctive guardian lion dogs with red eyes - A calm waterside mood quite unlike the dunes nearby

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring the fresh greenery around the lake is soft and pleasant for a stroll. In summer the shade brings cool air and the water mirrors the light. In autumn the surrounding trees turn color, and persimmons tied to the legend ripen. In winter few people come, and you can face the lake in stillness. On the day of the snake in the old calendar, some visitors come especially to pray.

Access and Basic Information

- Located in Fukube, Tottori City, right beside the Tottori Sand Dunes - About 1.3 kilometers from the dunes, a few minutes by car - Easy to combine with a visit to the sand dunes - A walking path circles the lake for an unhurried visit

A Quick Tip

It is best visited together with the dunes. After spending lively time on the sand, putting your hands together quietly at this shrine helps settle the heart. The waterside can be damp underfoot, so wear comfortable shoes for walking.