An area wedged between Obama and Kumagawa called “Onyu” sat at the heart of old Wakasa. Fish and salt were exchanged for the latest in Kyoto culture; that explains why many nationally cherished Buddhist temples like Myotsuji, Kokubunji, and Jinguji still remain on this land.

Jinguji Temple, for example, has connections to the old Capital. As a result, the “Omizu-tori” water-drawing ceremony is held at Todaiji Temple in Nara. It is a rite of prayer for protection from calamities as well as abundant crops that begins with a drawing of sacred water from “Wakasa-i,” a well located within Todaiji Temple. Why is the well named Wakasa-i? Because the sacred water is sent from Wakasa in a separate ritual called the “Omizu-okuri,” or “Water-sending.” The water is purified at Jinguji Temple before it flows to Unose – a waterway that secretly connects to Todaiji Temple. This allows the water to pour out of the Wakasa-i well.

Why did it have to be Wakasa? They say that in the past “Onyu” was once called “Konyu,” a name related to the element mercury. Back then, mercury was believed to be an elixir of immortality. That is why, if you sought immortality, you sought the waters of Wakasa, right? Let your imagination fill in the gaps.

Incidentally, you’ll find a stone monument near Unose etched with the phrase “Yaoni.” Some say it marks the grave of Yaobikuni. And did you know my birthday is on the same day the water-sending ritual began? Curious. I wonder why. Such mysteries, and whatever happens next, I will leave to your imagination. Ehehehehee…

Voiceover: Happyakubikuni (voiced by Kate Beck)

ON THE TRIP Editorial Staff
Akihito Shiga - Hiroshi Honma - Jean Paul Souki Pacheco - Kevin Rea

※This guide has been created based on documents and other materials, but also includes our own interpretations at ON THE TRIP. An expert may give you a different opinion, so please discover your own version of the truth on this journey.