Temizusha
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Temizusha

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A purification basin where visitors cleanse themselves before prayer. This wooden structure with interlocking joints, built by Kongō Gumi in 2022 without using nails, features a water basin carved from granite donated in 1934.

The temizuya is a facility where visitors purify themselves before paying their respects at a shrine. The current temizuya was constructed in 2022 by Kongō Gumi, a renowned master carpenter, using traditional wooden joinery techniques that require no nails—a precious example of classical craftsmanship.

The water basin was donated in 1934 by parishioners from the Hamachō neighborhood and was carved from a single block of granite weighing 3.5 tons. Rather than having a drain, the structure allows water to overflow naturally from the basin, ensuring it remains constantly filled with fresh water.

When performing the purification ritual without using a ladle, the procedure is as follows. First, wash both hands. Since no ladle is used, there is no need to alternate between left and right. Next, cup both hands to collect water, bring it to your mouth, and rinse. When spitting out the water, it is considered more respectful to cover your mouth with your left hand. Finally, wash both hands once more to complete the purification.

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