Traditional Okinawa Village and Omoro Arboretum

Water well (Ugamigah)

A sacred place with water from ancestors

Water is important for mankind to survive. Therefore, people gathered looking for springs, ponds, or places to dig wells in order to build communities. Those water wells and ponds that the ancestors used are called “Ugamigah”, and from the belief that the spiritual power of the water provides life and existence, festivals have been held to appreciate water. When a baby was born, water drawn from an “Ubugah” well was offered to the god of fire “Hinukan”, and was placed on the forehead of the baby. Also, on New Year’s Day, people placed water drawn from an “Ubugah” well on the foreheads of their family, and washed their faces with the water to pray for good health.

Location within the park

Water well (Ugamigah)