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Lanterns at Kifune-jinja Shrine

Name: Lanterns at Kifune-jinja Shrine
Address: 180 Kuramakibunechō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112, Japan
Rating: 4.5

4.5 (200)・Tourist Attraction・Place Of Worship・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Amid the picturesque mountains north of Kyoto lies the Kifune-jinja Shrine, which beckons with its historical charm and spiritual allure. As you ascend the iconic stone steps lined with vibrant red lanterns, you are transported into a world steeped in centuries of tradition and reverence.

These lanterns, especially mesmerizing when illuminated at night, cast a magical glow that enhances the shrine's serene and sacred atmosphere. Kifune-jinja Shrine, over 1,300 years old, is dedicated to the god of water and holds a profound place in Japan's cultural heritage.

The shrine complex features three distinct locations, each nestled in lush greenery and offering unique experiences: the main shrine, the inner shrine renowned for its matchmaking deity, and the upper shrine, the original site of this ancient sanctuary. Visitors are invited to partake in water fortune-telling and bring home sacred water, believed to bestow blessings.

Discover the timeless beauty and spiritual richness of Kifune-jinja Shrine. Whether seeking tranquility, historical insight, or a connection with the divine, this enchanting shrine promises a memorable journey.

Plan your visit today, and let the lanterns light your path to a truly magical experience.

Hours

6:00 AM - 8:00 PM (May to November and January 1 to 3)

6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (December to April)

Closed

No closing days

Available

All year

Minimum Age

All ages are welcome.

Admission Fee

Free

Hours

Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thursday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Saturday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Sunday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Phone

+81 75-741-2016

Website

kifunejinja.jp

The area

Address

180 Kuramakibunechō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112, Japan

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What other travelers are saying about Lanterns at Kifune-jinja Shrine

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A hidden gem in Kyoto – my favorite spot of the entire trip! Kifune Shrine is hands down the most memorable and meaningful place I visited during my winter trip to Kyoto. Nestled halfway up a mountain and surrounded by dense forest, the shrine offers an incredibly fresh and peaceful atmosphere that feels far removed from the busy tourist sites in central Kyoto. Getting there isn’t the easiest—it requires taking the subway and then two buses from the city center—but that’s exactly what makes this place so special. Because of the more challenging access, it’s not crowded with international tourists, especially large tour groups from China, which unfortunately tend to overwhelm many other Kyoto landmarks and often leave behind trash. In contrast, Kifune Shrine remains pristine and uncrowded, preserving its natural beauty and serenity. Even in winter, the landscape here is breathtaking. A small, crystal-clear stream runs down from the mountain right next to the shrine, adding to the peaceful, sacred atmosphere. The locals clearly take great care of the environment, and everything feels clean and well-respected. If you’re looking for a truly peaceful, spiritual, and scenic escape from the tourist crowds of Kyoto, this is the place. I can’t recommend it highly enough—it was the highlight of my trip!

Phan Hanh

Jun 2, 2025

I really love this shrine! The entire place is surrounded by nature. The weather was perfect on the day we visited. The shrine is divided into several sections, and the farthest one requires a bit of a walk to reach. However, there are restrooms and plenty of drink vending machines along the way (with lots of unique Japanese-style beverages! A friendly warning though… some of them are *very* sweet—choose carefully. The lemon and grape ones are the safest bets! The red bean one… well, let’s just say it’s an acquired taste. The chocolate one was okay, though!). On our way up the mountain, we also passed by a gallery that sells souvenirs (their solid perfumes smell especially wonderful! They also sell other cosmetics, jewelry, etc... Highly recommended to visit!).

Tara Constant

Apr 26, 2025

Beautiful place and easy to get there. We took a train and a bus, never got lost. The scenery is incredible. We decided to go to Kurama temple after this and I’m glad we did it this way. Visiting Kifune Shrine felt very peaceful, I wish I had stayed there a bit longer.

Diosemil Sanchez

Mar 22, 2025

Kifune Shrine in Kyoto, from June to July, offers a truly immersive experience in nature's tranquility. The vibrant summer greenery surrounding the shrine creates a striking contrast with the iconic red lanterns lining the stone steps, resulting in a visually captivating and spiritually uplifting atmosphere. Revered by many as a power spot, Kifune Shrine is believed to emanate positive energy from its natural surroundings and sacred ambiance. The gentle sound of the Kifune River flowing beside the shrine is said to have a calming and purifying effect. Spending time in this lush environment and offering prayers can be a deeply rejuvenating experience. While the shrine itself doesn't have a menu, the area along the Kifune River is renowned for its Kawadoko (riverbed dining) during the summer. Indulging in a traditional Kyoto meal while seated on platforms made of metal and bamboo, suspended directly over the cool, flowing water, is a unique and highly recommended culinary adventure. 🚇𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀: From the Hankyu Kyoto line, get off at Karasuma Station. Transfer to the Kyoto Municipal Subway and get off at Kokusaikaikan station. Then, take the Kyoto bus to get off at the Kifune bus stop and walk for about 5 minutes.