Minase Jingu Shrine

After the passing of Emperor Go-Toba, a shrine was established in 1240 on the site of Minase Palace, which had once served as his detached residence, to enshrine the late emperor. Within the shrine grounds is the famous "Rikyu-no-Mizu" spring, selected by the Environment Agency as one of Japan’s Top 100 Famous Waters. Many visitors come seeking this renowned water, which is said to have been favored by Sen no Rikyu as well. The water is underground flow from the Minase River, a tributary of the Yodo River, originating in Mt. Tennozan. Within the precincts, there is also the Tōshintei tea house, designated an Important Cultural Property by the national government. Every year, the three Senke schools (Omotesenke, Urasenke, and Mushakojisenke) hold a tea offering ceremony using water from this well. The shrine also houses cultural treasures, including the National Treasure "Portrait of Emperor Go-Toba" (color on paper) and the "Imperial Handprint Document" written by Emperor Go-Toba himself. Additionally, it is said that the handprint left on the main gate at the front of the approach was made by Ishikawa Goemon when he attempted to steal a famous sword enshrined in the main hall. 【Admission】 Tea house "Tōshintei": Reservation required for groups of 5 or more, 500 yen per person.