What is Kifune Shrine ？

Kifune Shrine, located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, is a historic shrine surrounded by nature, dedicated to the god of water. It is renowned as the head shrine of around 500 Kifune Shrines across Japan. The history of the shrine dates back to the Asuka period, with records suggesting that the shrine’s main sanctuary already existed during that time.

Blessings and Deities

History

The exact founding date of Kifune Shrine is unknown, but it is known to be a shrine with a long and distinguished history, as the main shrine was already undergoing reconstruction during the Asuka period. The shrine is composed of three main areas: the Main Shrine (本宮), Yui-sha Shrine (結社), and Okumiya Shrine (奥宮). The original location of the shrine is believed to be at the Okumiya, but due to flood damage, the Main Shrine was relocated to its current location in 1055.
Since then, the shrine has undergone more than 36 reconstructions, with a significant restoration funded by the national government in the Taisho era. The current Main Shrine was completely rebuilt from its foundation during the Heisei period.

Access to Kifune Shrine

Kifune Shrine‘s Goshuin

This is the Goshuin from Kifune Shrine! It features a simple design with the characters for Kifune Shrine written prominently in the center. While it is a pre-written version, you can also receive a Goshuin from the Okumiya (Inner Shrine).

The Goshuin can be obtained at the shrine office located behind you after your visit. Various Goshuincho (stamp books) are also available.

Visiting Report on Kifune Shrine！！

As you pass through the torii gate, your visit to Kifune Shrine begins! Traditionally, visitors follow a route from the lower stream to the upper stream, visiting the main shrine (Honmiya), the inner shrine (Okumiya), and the junction shrine (Yuisha） in that order. While the walk may take a bit of time, it can be completed in about 30 minutes. Enjoy your exploration!

origin of ema

Kifune Shrine is known as the “origin of ema” (votive plaques). There are two horse statues that represent this connection! These statues symbolize the shrine’s historical association with ema and the wishes made by visitors. Would you like to know more about the significance of the horses or the ema tradition?

Mizu-uranai Mikuj（水占みくじ）

Kifune Shrine has its famous “Mizuuranai Mikuri” (water fortune-telling). When you place the omikuji (fortune slip) on the water, the characters will emerge, revealing your fortune!

Yui-sha Shrine

It takes about a five-minute walk from the main shrine (Honden) to the Ketsuja Shrine. There are guide signs along the way, so you can easily follow them to reach your destination!

Yui-sha Shrine is known as a “power spot for matchmaking.” Its enshrined deity is Iwanagahime no Mikoto, who is the goddess of marriage and relationships.

At Kifune Shrine, there is a stone monument inscribed with a poem by Izumi Shikibu, a famous Heian-period poet. Kifune Shrine has been known since ancient times as a place where people pray for love. It is said that when Izumi Shikibu visited the shrine, hoping to resolve the discord in her marriage, her relationship with her husband improved. The poem, which is recorded in the “Shūi Wakashū” (Later Collectanea of Japanese Poetry), reflects her heartfelt sentiments and connection to the shrine’s blessings for love and relationships.

Okumiya Shrine

It takes about a 10-minute walk from the Yui-sha Shrine (結社) to the Okumiya (奥宮). Along the path, you will find lanterns placed at intervals, making it easy to navigate your way to the inner shrine without getting lost.

The Okumiya (奥宮) is believed to be the original site of Kifune Shrine (貴船神社). Before the main shrine was relocated to its current location, the main hall was situated at this site. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a mystical atmosphere that enhances its spiritual significance.

According to legend, this site of the Okumiya is said to be where Tamayori-hime no Mikoto (玉依姫命) arrived in the early 5th century, traveling upstream from Osaka Bay on a yellow boat.

There is a sacred tree known as “Renri no Sugi” (連理の杉), which symbolizes the intertwining of separate trees into one. The term “Renri” signifies the harmonious relationship between couples or the affectionate bond between men and women.

Summary

Thank you for reading.
Please do visit the charming Kifune Shrine.