Suikinkutsu

Constructing a suikinkutsu is more difficult than it looks, because all components have to be finely tuned with each other to ensure a good sound.

Initially, jars that were readily available for storage of rice or water were utilized for the construction of a suikinkutsu.

Thus, the creation of the sound is usually done intentionally by splashing water over the two designated spots, rather than accidentally by washing hands.

Historically, suikinkutsu were known as tōsuimon (洞水門, literally "water gate"), but they were rarely used in Japanese gardens.

It is believed that initially a vessel was buried upside down next to the washing basin in Japanese gardens to act as a drainage system.

Their rise in popularity and the name suikinkutsu originated from the middle of the Edo period (1603–1867), around the same time the stone basin chōzubachi was developed.

At the end of the Edo period, the creation of suikinkutsu became less frequent, but became popular again during the Meiji Era (1867–1912).

However, a journalist from the Asahi Shimbun wrote about suikinkutsu in 1982, and requested information from the public about the topic.

Instead, the visitor washes his/her hands, and suddenly hears the pleasant sounds coming from underground.

This clear sound of water drops is considered relaxing and soothing, and also described as beautiful and peaceful.