Dear Global Friends,
I’m thrilled to share with you a hidden gem I discovered during my recent visit to Yamada Tenmangu: the “Kogane Shrine.” It may be small, but its enchantment is vast and deep. I’m so excited to take you on this journey with me!
Imagine a place dedicated to enriching your financial fortune. That’s Kogane Shrine for you! Let me unveil why it’s such a beloved spot.
As you step in, golden mice holding a mythical mallet, the “Uchide no Kozuchi,” welcome you. This magical mallet is said to manifest whatever you wish for. And who wouldn’t wish for a bit more gold in their life? We all have a little bit of that natural greed, right? (haha)
Kogane Shrine is split into two marvelous areas: a sacred shrine and a money-purifying spring. The shrine houses Ebisu and Daikokuten, revered as Japan’s top deities of wealth. Their presence alone is a blessing.
The spring, covered to shield you from the rain, is where you can cleanse your money, wishing for prosperity. It’s a bustling hotspot, with visitors eagerly washing their money in hopes of increased fortune.
I joined in, washing my money in a sieve, but alas, I forgot a towel! So, a word of advice: remember to bring a towel to avoid carrying home wet money like I did.
The entrance is adorned with heartfelt notes of gratitude from those who found financial success after visiting. From lottery wins to big earnings in horse racing, these stories are a testament to the shrine’s legendary status. Yet, amidst this display of human desire, there are tales of generosity, like donations to earthquake relief, reminding us of the depth of human kindness.
Did you know? You can even purify your old wallets here, respecting the Japanese belief that beloved objects hold a soul.
And don’t forget to check out Yamada Tenmangu’s charming characters. The mouse talismans, especially, are irresistibly cute! Writing your wishes on these talismans and burning them is believed to send your desires to the heavens, a poignant tradition in its own right.
Though small, Kogane Shrine brims with wonders and blessings. It’s a place where the Japanese virtue of subtle desires meets the honest yearning for prosperity. This unique energy is what makes Kogane Shrine so special.
So why not plan a visit? If fortune favors you with a lottery win, the trip will be more than worth it (haha).
Eager to hear about your own experiences,
Koki@SamuraiWanderer
