Recently, excavation work at Goryo Shrine (Kamigoryo Shrine) in Kyoto City's Kamigyo Ward resulted in well water gushing forth for the first time in approximately 40 years. A Shinto ritual to report the completion of the well to the enshrined deity was held on October 18, 2025, and those involved in the shrine and construction celebrated the long-awaited return of the sacred water.
According to the shrine, there used to be a shallow well 6-7 meters deep on the grounds that was used for cleaning the grounds, but it dried up around 1975 due to construction work on the nearby Karasuma Line subway.
The shrine had long hoped to restore the well, but the cost of construction was a hurdle. A supporting membership program was launched in 2023 to solicit donations for grounds maintenance and other projects, and funds were raised, making the well a reality. Excavation began northeast of the main hall in June 2025, and water gushed forth from a depth of 44 meters. Well water was then drawn into the water basin used by worshippers, and a new faucet was also installed.
A religious ceremony was held, during which Kongo Eikin, a Living National Treasure and head of the Kongo school of Noh, dedicated a Noh piece called "Makura Jido," which has a theme of water. Attendees enjoyed rice cooked with well water. The chief priest of Goryo Shrine (81 years old) expressed his gratitude, saying, "Thanks to everyone, my long-held wish has come true. I hope that with the gods' protection, water will be available for many years to come."
