What is the origin of the name “Mitarai”? There are in fact several legends; some of which revolve around this well.
According to the oldest of these legends, the name originated with Japan’s primordial god, Izanagi-no-Mikoto, who descended to this island to wash his body. The island became known as “Miarai-no-Shima” or the “Island of Body Washing” and the name transformed to “Mitarai” over time. Another legend suggests that the name came from Emperor Jimmu and Empress Jingu, who stopped here to wash their hands. Yet another legend links the name to the Heian Period politician Sugawara-no-Michizane, who stopped here to wash his hands on the way to his exile in Dazaifu.
Connecting these disparate legends is a common thread of revered, almost deified figures all washing themselves in these waters. No one knows which of these, if any, is the true reason. But then, why pass these legends down over the ages?
People cannot live where there is no water. Yet, this place is abundant with it. They wanted to protect their precious water so much that they told these tales over generations to ensure they remained pure. Such was its importance.
