Shimogamo Shrine

This review comes a bit late since I visited this beautiful shrine in early November 2024, but it’s been an unforgettable trip and truly a rather hidden gem for Kyoto shrines. Shimogamo is one of the two oldest and most important shrines in Kyoto, dating back further than the settlement of Kyoto as Ancient Japan’s capital. Its importance throughout history is felt as you walk through the grounds that are much more spacious than other temples and shrines, the walk through the garden was especially serene - and the rain made it all feel even more connected with nature, as is the spirit of Shintoism. Even more poignant since the shrine was settled here for the Kamo river. There are also several marked archeological sites and protected ancient trees to remind you of the age of this sacred place. Yet despite its historical significance, it (luckily) does not receive the level of tourist attention which other more widely known temples/shrines do, so it was a very peaceful experience. There was an ongoing ceremony for an event hence the group of people in my photos, but otherwise quite empty. The gift shop was quite popular since this shrine sells a famous season edition omamori - a special momento capturing the season you visited. Entry to the grounds and surrounding garden is also free but there is a fee to enter the prayer halls, which I didn’t do. They also have the water omikuji in Japanese only (I got great fortune yay 🙏) I will definitely visit again and also its connected Kamigamo shrine further upriver.

A 2000 year old temple who doesn't have an entrance fee. Walking towards the temple, the different shades of green of the trees greet you. The temple was not busy, seemed to be off the beaten path, definitely worth a visit

Visited the shrine because of Uchoten Kazoku anime. The shrine is located close to nature, and it is located near Tadasu no Mori. Not many foreign tourists there, so if you want to take a break from a place that is too 'touristy' you can visit Shimogamo Shrine. Many locals take their wedding shoot there also. They also sell some Uchouten Kazoku anime merchandise in the shops, as the setting for tanuki family's home is this Shrine. I recommend visiting during autumn to see the momiji.

I love the calm vibe of this shrine. It's so peaceful compared to all the crazy tourist spots in Kyoto. Even on April 8th, with only a few cherry blossoms, it still had that beautiful sakura charm to bring back.

A nice temple hidden amongst the forested area. Very tranquilizing walk into the shrine. There were many couples in their wedding gowns taking photos at the shrine. Get a lucky charm at the store and soak it into the water in the stream to unveil the words.