If you’re visiting Kyoto, one must-see destination is Shimogamo Shrine. Officially named Kamo Mioya Shrine, it is one of Japan’s oldest and most sacred Shinto shrines and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site under the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”
With origins said to date back to before the Common Era, Shimogamo Shrine has been deeply rooted in Kyoto’s history and spirituality. Together with Kamigamo Shrine, it is collectively known as “Kamo Sha,” and has long been revered as a guardian of the ancient capital.
- Step into Tradition: Aoi Festival & Shikinen Sengu
- Spiritual Highlights of Shimogamo Shrine
- Kawai Shrine: Beauty Blessings in Kyoto
- Sacred Forest of Tadasu no Mori
- Unique Sub-Shrines & Their Blessings
- Souvenirs, Sweets, and a Break at Saruya
- Basic information (check before visiting)
- Final Thoughts｜Why Shimogamo Shrine Belongs on Your Kyoto Itinerary
Step into Tradition: Aoi Festival & Shikinen Sengu
Every May, the famous Aoi Matsuri (Holllyhock Festival) is held. This elegant procession, featuring participants in authentic Heian-period costumes, parades through the streets of Kyoto—offering a rare time-travel-like experience that draws visitors from around the world.
Another sacred ritual is the Shikinen Sengu, held every 21 years, in which the shrine buildings are renewed and the deities are ceremonially moved to the new sanctuary. The most recent was in 2015, with the next one scheduled for 2036. It’s considered a moment of spiritual renewal—a rare opportunity for visitors to witness ancient traditions in practice.
Spiritual Highlights of Shimogamo Shrine
The shrine grounds are full of culturally significant sites. Don’t miss the East and West Main Halls, both designated as National Treasures of Japan, as well as the Romon gate (tower gate) and Maiden (dance hall) where rituals are performed.
Inside the Naka mon gate, you’ll find 12 small shrines dedicated to the Japanese zodiac signs. Try locating your own zodiac animal and offering a prayer—it’s a fun and unique experience, especially for international visitors unfamiliar with the tradition.
Kawai Shrine: Beauty Blessings in Kyoto
Just inside the entrance on the left stands Kawai Shrine, famous for its blessings for beauty. Its highlight is the hand-mirror-shaped ema (wooden votive tablet). Visitors draw or decorate their ideal face on the ema using makeup or colored pencils, then write their wishes on the back—hoping not just for outer beauty, but for inner beauty as well.
Sacred Forest of Tadasu no Mori
Surrounding the shrine is Tadasu no Mori, a primeval forest filled with trees aged between 200 to 400 years. Despite being in the heart of Kyoto, this area offers a mystical, tranquil atmosphere with bubbling springs and clear streams—a perfect place to refresh both body and spirit.
Unique Sub-Shrines & Their Blessings
Shimogamo Shrine is also home to many fascinating sessha (associated shrines) and massha (smaller auxiliary shrines), including:
- Sawata Shrine: Known as the “sacred site of rugby”
- Aioi Shrine: Popular for prayers related to love and matchmaking
- Mitarashi Shrine: Said to ward off misfortune, and the origin of the famous “Mitarashi Dango” sweets
- Hiraki Shrine: Worshipped for good luck and as a guardian of tea culture
Each sub-shrine offers blessings for different life aspects, so you can choose the ones that match your personal wishes.
Souvenirs, Sweets, and a Break at Saruya
Near the main prayer hall, you’ll find an omamori (amulet) shop offering a variety of charms—some even handmade and one-of-a-kind. Omikuji (fortune slips) and local sweets also make for great souvenirs.
When you’re ready for a break, head to Saruya, a charming rest area on the grounds. It serves traditional Japanese treats like matcha shaved ice, zenzai (sweet red bean soup), and the legendary Sarumochi, a type of mochi sweet believed to purify the soul—revived after 140 years.
Basic information (check before visiting)
| (data) item | Contents |
| name | Kamo Mioya Shrine (commonly known as Shimogamo Shrine) |
| category | Shinto shrine, UNESCO World Cultural Heritage (Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto) |
| Location | 59 Shimogamo-Izumigawa-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto |
| Access | 10-minute walk from Keihan Line “Demachiyanagi” Station 3–5 minute walk from Kyoto City Bus “Shimogamo Jinja-mae” stop |
| Business Hours | Shrine Grounds: 6:00 or 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by season, may extend to 6:00 PM) Paid Facilities (Ohidono, Jingu-ji ruins, Historical Museum): 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM) |
| regular closing day | Open year-round |
| admission fee | Shrine Grounds: Free Paid Facilities: ¥1,000 (free for junior high school students and younger) |
| Approximate time required | Grounds only: 1 to 1.5 hours With paid areas: Over 2 hours (additional 1–1.5 hours for special visits) |
| Official Site | https:// www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp/ |
| Phone number | +81-75-781-0010 |
| remarks | Special Tours: Reservations required for group-only experiences such as viewing Heian court dances and traditional 12-layered kimono dressing. (Approx. 1 to 1.2 hours) Parking: Available on the west side of the shrine. Regular cars: ¥400–500 for the first hour, ¥300 per 30 min after Large buses: ¥2,000 per visit Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible Nearby Food: Enjoy Mitarashi Dango from the original shop “Kamo Mitarashi Chaya” or sweets at Saruya within the shrine grounds |
Final Thoughts｜Why Shimogamo Shrine Belongs on Your Kyoto Itinerary
Shimogamo Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most powerful spiritual spots, where history, nature, faith, and culture come together in harmony. It’s an ideal destination for anyone seeking a peaceful, sacred atmosphere or wanting to experience authentic Japanese tradition—especially recommended for international visitors.
For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the official website.
Not Confident for Shrines and Temples Etiquette? Check this guide before you go!
