Located in Ibaraki prefecture, Kashima Jingu (Kashima Shrine) is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, and a well sought out spot for tourism and pilgrimages. The shrine is associated with Takemikazuchi-no-Okami, a patron deity of martial arts in Japan, and even houses the Futsu-no-Mitama Sword blade, a designated National Treasure. For that reason, the shrine is known as a "power spot" in Japan to pray for victory in martial arts or simply gaining strength to overcome adversity.

One of it's main attractions is the Mitarashi Ike (Holy Washing Pond), a natural water pond which receives 400,000 liters of water a day from an underwater spring, and which in the past visitors would purify themselves in before entering the shrine. Nowadays, the crystal clear waters are home to the shrine's koi fish, and is known as a spiritual healing spot for guests.

Japanese photographer Hirayu (@yuiphoto2) captured just how well that pond lives up to its healing reputation with a gorgeous shot that seems to transport you to the serene spot with just a glance.

The breathtaking photo had many on Twitter doing a doubletake to make sure it wasn't a painting, with others admiring just how calming the scene of a torii gate rising out of koi filled clear water and surrounded by lush greenery.

If you're interested in checking out one of Japan's many celebrated "power spots", perhaps Kashima Shrine should be moved towards the top of our list. Be sure to follow Hirayui on Twitter for more awesome photography around Japan.