A Chozubachi is a stone water-basin used by Buddhist Monks during the Kamakura (13th century) period. Originally these stone containers were located outside temples and shrines. They were filled with pure water and used for cleansing the hands and wetting the mouth before entering. In ancient times it was thought that this practice would purify themselves before entering the tea house.
The tea masters popularized the use of Chozubachi and the basins were placed in parks and in  the gardens of wealthy patrons. Artisans created several new styles to compliment these private gardens. Today the water basin can be the most distinctive element in a garden. They greatly enhance a gardens interest and beauty while using a minimum of space. Although there are no fixed rules for positioning a water basin, it will look best if placed in a fairly open area against a backdrop of greenery or a stone wall.