Kyoto WAKIMIZU Half Day Tour: Secrets of Matcha & Wagashi Sweets

Our walking tour of hidden spring water sources begins at Yasaka Shrine. Kyoto, a city ensconced in legend, is said to be guarded by four divine creatures known as the Shijin, each representing a cardinal direction. The east, where Yasaka Shrine stands, is protected by the Azure Dragon. Beneath the shrine's main hall, a mystical pond, or dragon's lair, is said to be home to this divine creature. The spring water that flows from this sacred place is known as "Gion Shinsui," or "Power Water," and is deeply revered by locals. It is believed that drinking this water, followed by applying a few drops of "Biyomizu" or "beauty water", which emerges from a shrine dedicated to beautiful women, will bestow upon one both inner and outer beauty. This powerful spot is frequented by geisha and maiko alike.

This sacred spring water, said to be blessed by Tenjin, the deity of learning, is believed to grant protection from misfortune, wisdom, and success in academic pursuits.

This sacred spring water from a shrine revered as a fire-preventing deity has a fascinating history. It is said that during the Hamaguri-gomon Incident in the late Edo period, this area miraculously escaped a great fire. Since then, there have been numerous tales of the shrine's divine protection against fire.

After a walking tour of three unique spring water sources, our journey will conclude at a confectionery founded in 1803, where you can enjoy matcha made with spring water and exquisite namagashi (fresh Japanese wagashi sweets), which are not typically available in the shop.