Beautiful shinto shrine from the 6-7th century, that is a world heritage site and national treasure. Surrounded by an ancient forest that never burned down. You can also get a water fortune 水みくじ, that when you submerge in the mitarashi stream or pond will reveal the fortune. This is rare to see and a must do here.
One of the most mystical and spiritually uplifting shrines in Kyoto.
Along the way, you’ll find charming shrines dedicated to beauty and matchmaking, each offering adorable lucky charms and amulets.
There are also plenty of delightful spots to stop and rest, where you can enjoy local treats such as monkey rice cakes and Mitarashi dango.
A place filled with wonderful sights, spiritual energy, and unforgettable experiences.
This shrine has a lot to see and experience. I was a bit shocked by the rugby ball shrine, but it was fun and interesting to read about. There is a shrine where you can illustrate a face on a wood paddle for a blessing for beauty.
A beautiful and peaceful shrine surrounded by nature. The atmosphere was calm and relaxing, with stunning traditional architecture and a beautiful forested setting.
Definitely worth visiting if you’re exploring Kyoto.
As one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan, with a history spanning nearly 2,000 years, this shrine is an awe-inspiring place to visit. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it exudes an atmosphere that feels both mystical and timeless. The shrine's elegant buildings, painted in the classic white and vermilion colors characteristic of Shinto architecture, stand beautifully against the surrounding greenery, creating a truly iconic Japanese landscape.
Last visit: July 19, 2026, around 10:00 AM
I visited during the height of Kyoto's sweltering summer, only to discover that the **Mitarashi Sai** festival was taking place. I hadn't planned my visit around the event, so I was surprised to find an enormous crowd. Hundreds of people had lined up to enter the main sanctuary, and the queue stretched much farther than I had expected.
As much as I wanted to continue, I ultimately decided not to join the line since I still had several places on my itinerary that day. Fortunately, simply walking around the shrine's outer grounds was already a rewarding experience.
The festival transformed the shrine precinct into a lively celebration of local culture. Numerous food stalls lined the pathways, offering classic Japanese festival favorites such as **yakisoba**, **kakigōri**, and other treats. There were also traditional game booths where children and adults alike could enjoy activities such as target shooting and goldfish scooping. The cheerful sounds of festival-goers, combined with the historic setting, created a unique atmosphere that balanced centuries-old tradition with the excitement of a summer matsuri.
Even without entering the main sanctuary, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit. The shrine's rich history, beautiful architecture, and the unexpected festival made it one of the most memorable experiences of my time in Kyoto. If you happen to visit during the Mitarashi Sai, be prepared for large crowds—but also for an unforgettable glimpse into one of Kyoto's most vibrant seasonal celebrations.
