📕 Goshuin from visitors
Kifune Shrine
〒601-1112 京都府京都市左京区鞍馬貴船町１８０
The head shrine among approximately 2,000 water kami shrines nationwide, enshrining deities of water. Rituals are performed here to pray for the blessings of water.
Enshrined deities
Takaokami-no-Kami (dragon deity of water)
History
The date of founding is unknown, but there is a record of the reconstruction of the shrine buildings in 666 CE (Hakuhō 6). It is said that the shrine originated when Tamayori-hime-no-Mikoto landed at this site riding a yellow boat and enshrined the water kami. This shrine is also known as the birthplace of the ema (votive wooden plaques).
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What visitors say
The stone steps and approach path are beautiful even in winter scenery, and at night, the light from lanterns creates a fantastic atmosphere. Access by car requires caution as the roads are narrow and parking space is limited. Goshuin (calligraphic seal stamps) can be obtained at the main hall or the shrine office, where a system using numbered tickets has been introduced.
Opening hours
- Monday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Tuesday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Wednesday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Thursday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Friday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Saturday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Sunday: 6:00 – 18:00
Annual events & festivals
- January 1-3Hatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the Year)
First shrine visit to the head shrine of water deities, known for prayers for matchmaking and rising luck.
The head shrine of all Kifune shrines in Japan, enshrining the deity who governs water. Known for beliefs in matchmaking and rising luck, it is beautiful with snow-covered approach paths and Kasuga lanterns.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Head shrine of water deities
- ・Beliefs in matchmaking
- ・Stone-paved approach path lined with lanterns
- June 1Kifune-sai (Annual Grand Festival)
The annual grand festival of Kifune Shrine, praying for national abundance and people's peace.
On June 1, the most important festival at Kifune Shrine. Dedicatory offerings of Izumo kagura (sacred dance) and mikoshi (portable shrine) processions are performed.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Shinto rites of the annual grand festival
- ・Dedicatory offerings of Izumo kagura
- ・Mikoshi processions
- July 1 to August 15Tanabata Bamboo Decoration Light-Up
A fantastical summer light-up featuring bamboo decorations for wishes.
From July 1 to August 15, Tanabata bamboo decorations line the approach and shrine grounds, with lights turning on at sunset. The coolness of the riverbed dining complements the summer atmosphere at Kifune.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Tanabata bamboo decorations
- ・Nighttime light-up
- ・Kifune riverbed dining
- November 7Go-honbi-sai (Fire-Burning Festival)
An ancient Shinto rite involving fire.
On November 7, fires are lit to purify sins and impurities, praying for a bountiful harvest and the fulfillment of all wishes in this ancient rite.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Fire-burning rite
- ・Prayers for the fulfillment of wishes
Dates can shift from year to year. Please check the official information before you go.
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