When you visit temples and shrines in Japan, one of the first things you might notice is the fact that they all seem to have a small, stone fountains with ladles perched on top. These are called Chozuya / Temizuya, people use them to purify themselves with water before going inside the Temple or Shrine.
The Chozuya / Temizuya is typically made of stone, with a wooden, triangular roof, and a decorative spout that leads into a pool of water. There will be several wooden or metallic ladles over the pool of water.
Even the smallest shrines or temples usually have a Chozuya / Temizuya. Asakusa Temple (Sensoji Temple) is no different. Their fountain is located near the lower, right corner of the steps. Thankfully, using one is very simple.
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Grasp the ladle with your right hand and pour the water over your left hand
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Switch hands with the ladle
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Grasp the ladle with your left hand and pour the water over your right hand
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(Optional) Switch hands with the ladle, pour water into your cupped left hand, drink it, swish it around in your mouth for a couple seconds, and spit it out on the ground
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Tilt the handle perpendicular and let water run down the handle of the ladle, cleaning it
Using the Chozuya / Temizuya at Asakusa Temple in Asakusa is fun and increases the cultural value you will take away from the temple. The Chozuya / Temizuya is located at the lower, right corner of the steps to the Asakusa Temple.
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