Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto, one of the city’s oldest and most revered shrines, has a history of over 2,000 years. Surrounded by the sacred Tadasu no Mori forest, it is renowned for its powerful spiritual energy and wide range of goriyaku (divine blessings).
Goriyaku (Divine Blessings)
The shrine enshrines Kamotaketsunomi no Mikoto and Tamayorihime no Mikoto, revered for blessings of protection, prosperity, and harmony. Many visitors come to seek good fortune in daily life, safe travels, and family well-being.
Kawai Shrine – Beauty and Self-Improvement ✨
Within Shimogamo’s grounds lies Kawai Shrine, dedicated to the goddess of beauty. Women especially visit to pray for beauty and self-confidence. A unique custom involves painting one’s ideal face on a hand mirror-shaped ema (wooden plaque).
Aioi Shrine – Ties of Love 💕
Aioi Shrine is famous for its enmusubi (love and matchmaking blessings). Couples and singles alike visit to strengthen bonds or find new love, making it one of the shrine’s most popular spots.
Koto-sha – Words and Communication 🗣️
Koto-sha is known for blessings of eloquence and expression, and it also enshrines the twelve zodiac deities. Each zodiac has its own small shrine, and visitors pray at the one linked to their birth year for personal protection.
Sawatasha – Rugby’s Sacred Ground 🏉
Sawatasha is affectionately known as the “Rugby Shrine.” Since a rugby ball-shaped monument was dedicated here, players and fans visit to pray for strength, victory, and teamwork, making it a holy spot for Japanese rugby.
Tadasu no Mori – A Sacred Forest 🌳
The Tadasu no Mori is an ancient forest surrounding the shrine, filled with towering trees that have stood for centuries. Known as a power spot, the forest offers a calming, spiritual atmosphere that invites visitors to recharge their energy.
Sazare-ishi – The Rock of Eternity ⛰️
Within the shrine grounds lies the Sazare-ishi, a symbolic “pebble rock” mentioned in Japan’s national anthem. Small stones naturally fused over time form this larger boulder, representing unity, longevity, and resilience. It is revered as a powerful symbol of strength and harmony.
Access
- Address: 59 Shimogamo Izumigawa-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
- Nearest Station: 12-minute walk from Demachiyanagi Station (Keihan Main Line / Eizan Electric Railway)
- Google Maps: Shimogamo Shrine
Plan Your Visit 🌸
Shimogamo Shrine combines history, nature, and divine blessings in one sacred place. Whether you seek love, beauty, success, or spiritual renewal, this shrine offers a memorable experience in Kyoto.
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