水神宮, Shinto shrine in Japan
Water Shrine (Suijin-gu) is a Shinto shrine in Kakegawa dedicated to the water god and consists of simple wooden structures with white walls and traditional curved roof tiles. The grounds include a main altar, a small well called the Sui-sui well, and nearby smaller shrines such as the Tsukiyomi Shrine.
The shrine was founded in 985 during the Heian period and is said to have been established by the historical figure Abe no Seimei as protection against floods. Over the centuries, local rulers supported its maintenance, and since the late 1800s, community families have taken on its care.
The shrine honors Mizuhanome-no-Mikoto, the water god, and remains central to local community life, especially during April festivals when people gather to pray for water and rain. Visitors can observe how residents leave small offerings and continue traditional rituals that have shaped daily life for centuries.
The grounds are easily reached on foot from Kakegawa's center and offer quiet shaded spots to rest among traditional buildings. Visitors should be careful during wet weather as some areas are unpaved, and coming early in the day or on weekdays helps avoid crowds.
The site is closely connected to the historical figure Abe no Seimei, who is said to have performed special prayers here using distinctive black stones, whose remnants remain visible in a stone mound called Seimei-zuka. The nearby Sui-sui well was historically used to prepare ink water for calligraphy, showing the shrine's link to cultural practices.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
