
The Zeniarai Benten Ugafuku Shrine is a very popular shrine in Kamakura for one special reason. It is believed that if you wash your money in the shrines water, your money will double.

After leaving the Starbucks Kamakura Onarimachi, I turned right and followed the signs. Unfortunately, either the signs are very wrong or I took a very circuitous route in getting to the shrine despite following the signs. Instead of being 800 meters away, I probably walked over a mile, which is all uphill.

There are no signs in English announcing the shrine. Instead, look for this large stone structure which sits to the left of the entrance tunnel to the shrine.

Next to the large stone, sits the opening to a short tunnel that will lead you to the shrines grounds.

Once you exit the tunnel, the chozuya is located to the right. This is where you purify yourself before entering the by cleaning your hands and mouth, along with the ladle.


Next are the torii, or the shrines gates.

There is a small shrine located to the right.


Further to the right is another shrine, along with a small waterfall.
There is a small open courtyard, in which ema, little wooden plaques where you write down your wishes, hang.
The main attraction Zeniarai Benten Ugafuku Shrine are the magical waters to wash your money.

This waters are located in a small cave-like structure, which is actually fairly large.

Before entering the cave you can rent a basket for ¥100.

I’m not sure if your money will double after washing it at Zeniarai Benten Ugafuku Shrine, but you will certainly get a good workout.