Oharano Jinja Shrine, revered as the guardian deity of the Fujiwara clan, is a prestigious shrine with a branch deity from Kasuga Taisha Shrine. Its serene atmosphere offers a tranquil escape, making it a perfect power spot.
Shrines and Temples
Highlights
A prestigious shrine revered as the guardian deity of the Fujiwara clan
A branch shrine of Kasuga Taisha Shrine, also known as "Kyoto Kasuga"
A tranquil sanctuary offering a peaceful escape and a powerful spiritual experience
The main hall, rebuilt in 1822, is a designated tangible cultural property of Kyoto City
Historical spots like Koizawa Pond and Se wai add to the shrine's rich history
From Higashimukai Station (Hankyu Kyoto Line) or Mukaimachi Station (JR Kyoto Line), take the Hankyu bus bound for Minamikasuga-cho and get off at the Minamikasuga-cho bus stop (approx. 20-minute ride, 7-minute walk from the bus stop).
From Katsura Station (Hankyu Kyoto Line), take the Kyoto City Bus (Route Rinsei 2) and get off at the Minamikasuga-cho bus stop (approx. 20-minute ride, 7-minute walk from the bus stop). Show route
Op.Hours
8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Cld.Days
None
Fee
Free
INFO
The grounds are spacious and offer ample parking, making it easily accessible by car.
Several historical temples, such as Katsuji-ji Temple and Shoho-ji Temple, are located nearby. Consider visiting them as well!
Oharano Jinja Shrine stands in Oharano, nestled at the foot of Kojioyama, a peak in the Nishiyama mountain range on the western edge of the Kyoto Basin. This historic shrine boasts a history predating Heian-kyo. Tradition holds that in 784 AD, when Emperor Kanmu moved the capital to Nagaoka-kyo, Empress Fujiwara no Etsumu requested a branch deity from Kasuga Shrine (present-day Kasuga Taisha Shrine) in Nara, the guardian deity of the Fujiwara clan, and enshrined it in Oharano, a place frequently used for falconry.
Oharano Jinja Shrine, long venerated as the Fujiwara clan's guardian deity, features four identical one-bay Kasuga-zukuri style halls, similar to Kasuga Taisha Shrine. The main hall, rebuilt in 1822, is designated as a tangible cultural property of Kyoto City.
The tranquil atmosphere of the shrine grounds offers a welcome respite from the urban hustle and bustle. There are many highlights to discover, including the beautiful shrine buildings, historical structures, a serene pond, and lush trees. Take your time to stroll through the grounds and feel the sacred atmosphere.
The grounds also include Koizawa Pond, said to have been modeled after Nara's Sarusawa Pond by Emperor Montoku, and Se wai, a well believed to have been used for the purification bath of Emperor Seiwa. These historical spots offer further glimpses into the rich history and traditions of Oharano Jinja Shrine.
Oharano Jinja Shrine is a perfect destination for those seeking peace and quiet away from the city. Why not spend some time relaxing in this sanctuary of history and nature?