Kifune Shrine

Overview

Kifune Shrine sits at the foot of Kuramayama and Kifuneyama mountains in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City. It's the head shrine of over 2,000 water deity shrines nationwide. Long revered as the "god of rain prayer," it has attracted followers from diverse fields, including agriculture and the electric power industry. Kifune Shrine boasts ancient origins. According to tradition, Tamayorihime-no-mikoto, the mother of Emperor Jimmu, arrived here by yellow boat, ascending the Yodo, Kamogawa, and Kifune rivers, and enshrined the water deity. The shrine's name is said to derive from this "yellow boat" (kifune). Known as a sacred site for water deity worship, Kifune Shrine comprises three shrines: Honmiya (main shrine), Yuisha (Nakumiya, middle shrine), and Okumiya (inner shrine), each enshrining different deities. Honmiya enshrines Takao no Kami, the water deity; Yuisha (Nakumiya) enshrines Iwanagahime-no-mikoto, the god of matchmaking; and Okumiya enshrines Yami no Kami. Kifune Shrine is also renowned as the birthplace of ema (votive picture plaques). Legend says that "Itadatsuma" (a type of early ema) was offered here. Ema are offered with wishes, and at Kifune Shrine, these range from matchmaking and academic success to business prosperity. Surrounded by abundant nature, Kifune Shrine offers a tranquil space for relaxation and rejuvenation. Famous as a matchmaking shrine, it's popular with those seeking good relationships. Autumn paints the shrine grounds in beautiful crimson and gold, creating a magical atmosphere. When visiting Kifune Shrine, take your time to stroll through the grounds and experience the sacred air.