The name “Kagami-ike” comes from the fact that a mirror-shaped island with a handle is floating in the pond. Itsukushima Shrine, dedicated to Princess Ichikishimahime no Mikoto, is located on this island and is popularly known as “Benten-san of Kagami-ike. Kagamiike is also the setting for major events at Todaiji Temple. During the annual Emperor Shomu Festival on May 2, a special stage is set up on the pond, on which the Kasuga Taisha Ancient Music Preservation Society dedicates a dance and a Noh play in praise of the Emperor. Also, during the Daibutsu-sama Autumn Festival on October 15, a Noh play is dedicated on a special stage, attracting many worshippers and tourists. In addition, Kagami Pond is home to wataka (horse fish), which are designated as a natural treasure by Nara Prefecture. The wataka is a freshwater fish endemic to Japan and used to be found only in Lake Biwa and the Yodo River system, but its distribution has spread throughout the country due to its release. It is said that the wataka of Kagami Pond was transferred from the main pond of Uchiyama Eienji Temple. Kagamiike Pond is popular as a photo spot for its beautiful scenery, especially during the season of autumn leaves.