About
As you walk along the tranquil paths of Kamakura, you arrive at the former site of the once-famous spring, “Kinryūsui.” This place was once where pure water welled up, quenching the thirst of travelers and local people alike. Although the spring has now dried up, the area still strongly retains the atmosphere of its past.
The surrounding bamboo grove whispers with every breeze, calming the hearts of visitors. Moss-covered stone paving lies underfoot, evoking the weight of history accumulated over many years. Nearby stands an old stone monument, engraved with the name “Kinryūsui.” This monument serves as a precious testament to the existence of the once-renowned spring.
Famed as one of the Five Famous Waters of Kamakura, “Kinryūsui” was said to possess a beauty that made it seem as if a golden dragon was reflected on the water’s surface, just as its name suggests. According to local legend, drinking this water was believed to bring longevity and health, drawing many people from afar. It is also said that samurai would purify themselves with this water before battle and pray for victory.
Although the water has now dried up, the surrounding nature remains as beautiful as ever. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in profusion, and the sight of petals dancing in the wind is like a dream. In summer, the fresh greenery is vivid to the eye, with sunlight filtering through the trees creating beautiful patterns on the ground. In autumn, the leaves turn red and yellow, coloring the earth. In winter, silence prevails, and when it snows, the area is transformed into a silvery world.
Visiting this place allows you to feel the lives of people from the past and the importance of living in harmony with nature. The site of “Kinryūsui” is not merely a historical location, but a place that prompts reflection on the relationship between humans and nature. If you quietly listen here, you may hear the voices of people from long ago or the sound of pure water flowing.
Located a little away from the bustle of Kamakura, this place is perfect for calming your mind and forgetting the busyness of daily life. In this space woven from history and nature, why not experience a moment where past and present intersect?