京都でおすすめの体験6選。日本の伝統と文化に触れられるスポットを定番から最新まで

Kyoto offers a unique opportunity to experience both time-honored traditions passed down through generations and modern interpretations of Japanese culture. In this guide, a range of immersive cultural experiences are introduced—from classic must-try activities to the latest attractions. Use this as inspiration to create unforgettable memories during your trip to Kyoto.   Index 1. Experience an authentic tea ceremony at “Kimono Tea Ceremony MAIKOYA Gion Kiyomizu” 2. Learn samurai and ninja history at “SAMURAI NINJA MUSEUM KYOTO with EXPERIENCE” 3. Enjoy cultural experiences and shows in an Edo-period townscape at “UZUMASA KYOTO VILLAGE” 4. Make your own Japanese plum wine at ume experience shop “CHOYA” 5. Enjoy non-verbal Japanese drum show at “DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO” 6. One of Kyoto’s largest kimono and yukata rental shops, “Kyo ARUKI” Why not try a traditional tea ceremony—often considered formal and intimidating—in a relaxed setting right in the heart of Gion? Set inside a beautifully preserved machiya townhouse designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property, this experience offers a calm and authentic atmosphere. A knowledgeable host will guide you through the history of tea ceremony, its cultural significance, and basic etiquette. You’ll also watch a live demonstration of how to prepare matcha, then try making it yourself and enjoy it with traditional Japanese sweets. If sitting in seiza (on the floor) is difficult, chairs are available for your comfort. We recommend making a reservation in advance via the official website.   ■Languages Available: English This interactive museum is dedicated to two iconic symbols of Japanese history: samurai and ninja. After viewing an impressive display of authentic armor and real swords, you can enjoy taking photos in a truly immersive setting. The ninja experience lets you try hands-on activities such as shuriken (throwing star) throwing and blowgun training. Expert guides also provide engaging explanations of samurai philosophy, history, and the role of ninja in Japan—making it a fun and educational experience at the same time.   ■Languages Available: English Toei Kyoto Studio Park is an immersive theme park designed for adults, built around the concept of “stepping into Kyoto during the Edo period.” It reopened in spring 2026 following its first phase of renovation.   As soon as you enter, you’ll find yourself surrounded by beautifully recreated Edo-era streetscapes. Throughout the park, you can enjoy interactive shows that bring a day in the Edo period to life, as well as hands-on experiences in traditional Japanese arts such as tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), Noh, and Kyogen theater.   There are also plenty of rental options, including kimono, traditional attire, and ninja costumes for children. Strolling through the park while sampling gourmet treats from well-known Kyoto eateries is another highly recommended way to enjoy the experience.   ■Languages Available: English / Chinese / Korean (signage & brochures) A specialty Japanese plum experience shop produced by the renowned umeshu maker CHOYA. The Kyoto Sanjo location, featured here, is designed for international visitors, offering a modern way to explore Japan’s traditional ume culture. One of the highlights is a hands-on workshop where you can create your own original ume syrup or umeshu by choosing from a variety of plums, sugars, and spirits (reservation via the official website 　is required). You can also enjoy non-alcoholic drinks made with syrup from fully ripened Nanko plums, ume chazuke (rice with plum), and even compare different types of umeshu.   ■Languages Available: English One of Japan’s leading taiko drum performance groups, DRUM TAO, has captivated audiences around the world. Their new permanent venue, DRUM TAO THEATER KYOTO, is set to open in April 2026—just a 1-minute walk from Kyoto Station. Centered around powerful taiko drumming and incorporating traditional instruments such as shamisen, flute, and koto, the performance blends rock, dance, and projection mapping into a dynamic, non-verbal show. With no dialogue, it can be enjoyed by audiences of all nationalities. The theater features an intimate setting with 320 seats, allowing you to feel the performers’ energy up close. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind immersive taiko entertainment experience.   ■Languages Available: English Produced in-house, the shop offers high-quality kimono with a wide selection of over 1,000 designs, ranging from trendy antique styles and cute looks to elegant classic patterns. With professional dressers and hair stylists on-site, you can transform into a beautifully styled kimono look in a short time. A luggage storage service is also available, so you can explore Kyoto hands-free.   To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance via the official website. In addition to the Kyoto Shijo main store introduced here, the Kyoto Gion location—close to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Yasaka Shrine—is also highly recommended.   ■Languages Available: Depending on the store, English- and Chinese-speaking staff may be available. Kyoto continues to preserve its traditions while embracing new ideas. The six spots introduced here are all perfect for those looking to experience a different side of Kyoto beyond temples and shrines.   ▼Check this article▼ 6 Must-Try Experiences in Osaka: Dive into Local Life and Japanese Culture

【大阪・京都・兵庫】インスタ映えするアジサイの名所おすすめ10選！

Hydrangea is a seasonal flower which is native to Japan and there are more than 50 diverse varieties of this flower. In Japan, a rainy season called Tsuyu starts around mid-June, and actually many people hate this season because of this gloomy weather. However, at the same time, you can feel many Japanese attractions which can’t be found in any other season, and Hydrangea is one of them.   The best time to visit is generally during the rainy season, from early June to early July.   Hydrangea flowers change color depending on the acidity of the soil. We will introduce spots in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo where various kinds of hydrangeas such as blue, purple and pink bloom. <Table of Contents> 【Osaka, Suita】Expo ’70 Commemorative Park 【Osaka, Ikeda】Kyuan-ji Temple 【Kyoto, Ukyo-ku】Umenomiya-taisha Shrine 【Kyoto, Nishikyo-ku】Yoshimine Temple 【Kyoto, Nagaokakyo】Yanagitani-Kannon 【Hyogo, Kawanishi】Shounsan Raikouji Temple 【Hyogo, Kobe】Kobe Municipal Arboretum 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Cable Car 【Hyogo, Rokko】Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE About 4,000 hydrangeas of about 30 varieties, including Western hydrangeas and Yaenoamacha, will be in full bloom at the Hydrangea Forest in the Nature Park of Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. Enjoy the fantastic space surrounded by diverse hydrangeas in red, blue, pink, etc.   Best time to view: Mid-June   ▼Check out this article▼ Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a great place to visit in Osaka! Highlights Explained! Kyuan-ji Temple has a path of hydrangeas so overgrown that they hide people. The gradation of hydrangeas on both sides of the path is a feast for the eyes. Floating hydrangeas on the pond are also popular as they look great on Instagram. The “Ajisai-Ukabe” usually held from mid to late June is even more impressive than the “Hana-Chozu”(flower water with handkerchiefs)!   For a limited time, they are offering “paper-cut goshuin” featuring hydrangea motifs.   Best time to view: Mid-June to early July   ▼Click here for information on recommended restaurants and popular museums in Ikeda▼ 3 restaurants where you can eat plant-based food near CUPNOODLES MUSEUM in Osaka Ikeda At Umenomiya Taisha Shrine, visitors can enjoy approximately 140 varieties of unique hydrangeas from the East Shrine Garden to the North Shrine Garden. You can also appreciate Hanashoubu, which blooms at the same time of the year. Best time to view: Mid-June Located in the precincts of Yoshimine Temple halfway up the mountain is the Hakusan Hydrangea Garden, which boasts an area of 3,000 tsubo (about 1,000 square meters). About 8,000 hydrangea plants, including gaku hydrangea, color the entire slope of the garden.   Best time to view: Late-June   ▼Check this article▼ Kyoto Nishiyama｜An undiscovered sightseeing spot in Kyoto! Visitors to Yanagitani Kannon can enjoy a cluster of about 5,000 hydrangea plants, including Japanese and Western hydrangeas. The hydrangea corridor in the precincts of the temple allows visitors to view the hydrangeas at their leisure without getting wet, even if it is raining. Yanagitani Kannon is famous for its “Hana-Chozu” (flower water with handkerchiefs). Many visitors come to the temple for Hana-Chozu, which is decorated with colorful seasonal flowers.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Late-June Shounzan Raikoji Temple is commonly called “Hydrangea Temple”. About 500 plants, including Western hydrangeas lovingly nurtured by the temple’s priests, bloom in large profusion. Take a stroll through the temple grounds and enjoy the different colors of the flowers.   Best time to view: Late-June The Kobe City Forest Botanical Garden is home to many rare hydrangeas, such as the fantastic Shichidanka flower and the clustered white Annabelle. The forest of approximately 50,000 hydrangeas of about 350 varieties is a sight to behold.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July At the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, located near the top of Mt. Rokko, 865 m above sea level, the “Shichidanka” hydrangea, said to be a phantom hydrangea, blooms. Characterized by its double-petaled flowers with overlapping petals, visitors can enjoy its pretty purple appearance. Also recommended is the “Hydrangea Garden,” where a wide variety of hydrangeas bloom, including the “Himehydrangea,” the city flower of Kobe City.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July The Rokko cable is a rare spot where you can enjoy hydrangeas while riding the cable car. The beautiful blue coloring of the hydrangea is known as “Rokko Blue”.   Starting from the hydrangea at the lower station of the cable car, more than 2,500 hydrangeas in total will be in full bloom from early to mid-July. The cable car has a lovely retro body, and from inside you can enjoy the view of the city of Kobe and the sea.   Best time to view: Mid-June to Mid-July Located on top of Mt. Rokko, where the temperature is about 5 degrees cooler than in the city, the hydrangeas are at their best about a month later than in the city, and more than 350 hydrangeas of more than 20 varieties can be enjoyed. The southern German-style building and the harmony with the surrounding nature provide an extraordinary experience and a peaceful space where visitors can appreciate the flowers in a more natural state.   Best time to view: Late-June to Late-July Flowering conditions may vary depending on the weather. Please check SNS for the latest blooming status.   ▼Check out this article▼ Enjoy “sound” in the great outdoors Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE Hydrangeas shine in the rain. Feel the change of the season by looking at the pretty blue, purple, and pink flowers.

【2026年最新】4,5月が 見頃！関西（大阪・京都・神戸周辺）の春の花名所12選！

Spring is the season when all the plants and flowers that have been sleeping begin to move at once. Why don’t you go out to see colorful plants and flowers that give you a warm spring feeling? Here are some spots where you can enjoy flowers and plants in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe.   -INDEX- [Nemophila] Osaka Maishima Seaside Park, Osaka [Nemophila]Kobe Agri Park “Nemophila Hill 2025”, Kobe [Poppy] Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, Osaka [Aomomiji] Minoh Park, Osaka [Yamabuki] Matsuo-taisha Shrine, Kyoto [Kirishima Azalea] Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto [Peony] Otokunidera, Kyoto [Water Lily] Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto [Wisteria flowers] Nakayamadera, Takarazuka [Azalea] Sorakuen Garden, Kobe [Rose] Aramaki Rose Park, Itami [Japanese Primrose]Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, Kobe Nemophila is a small, lovely flower of clear blue. It is a popular flower in recent years because of its spectacular view of the whole area spreading out like a blue carpet.   Approximately 1 million nemophila flowers bloom across the 44,000-square-meter grounds of Osaka Maishima Seaside Park, which overlooks the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. On weekends and holidays, the park extends its hours so visitors can enjoy the sight of the setting sun sinking into the nemophila fields and the landscape as it turns orange.   There is also an area in the park where visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms and tulips with nemophila, so if you are coming to Japan in spring, be sure to visit Osaka Maishima Seaside Park.   Nemophila Festival: April 11 (Sat) – May 10 (Sun), 2026 Usual viewing time: early April to early May   Kobe Agri Park’s “Nemophila Hill”,  a new spring attraction featuring approximately 1 million blooming nemophila flowers, has opened in Kobe! The harmony between the nemophila flowers that blanket the hill in blue and the clear blue sky creates a breathtaking panorama you’ll want to capture in photos.   Kobe Agri Park also has restaurants, barbecue facilities, a winery, a ceramics museum, and other facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy “food” and “agriculture” in various ways along with the nemophilas. Nemophila Hill 2026: Saturday, April 18, 2026 – Sunday, May 17, 2026 Usual viewing time: late April to early May Poppy is a member of the poppy family that has long been cultivated for ornamental and medicinal purposes. The seeds are also used in cooking. The Expo ’70 Park’s Shizen Bunka-en (Nature Park) and Hana-no-oka (Flower Hill) are decorated with approximately 380,000 poppies. The contrast of colors between the yellow and orange poppies and the fresh blue nemophila can also be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: early April to early May Aomomiji refers to the leaves of maple trees that turn from young leaves in spring to increasingly darker green. You can enjoy the fresh and crisp leaves of ao-momiji until they turn red in the fall. Minoh Park is famous for its autumn leaves, but it is also very beautiful in the fresh green season. Enjoy forest bathing surrounded by the sparkling green maples in the sunlight while listening to the murmuring of a mountain stream and the chirping of wild birds.   Usual viewing time: Late April to late May ▼Check this article▼ 8 recommended gourmet restaurants in Minoh Waterfall! Cafes & Shops to stop by for sightseeing Note on how to get to Minoh Waterfall! Points that international travelers should know before going there Yamabuki is a deciduous shrub in the rose family with beautiful, almost orange-yellow flowers. The flower has been familiar to the Japanese people since ancient times.   Matsuo-taisha Shrine, known as a place of famous water, has about 3,000 yamabuki trees, which turn the shrine grounds yellow. The Yamabuki Festival is held every year when the flowers are at their best.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May It is very familiar in Japan and is often planted as a roadside tree or garden tree. It is loved by many people for its very vivid flowers.   Vivid Kirishima azaleas are in full bloom at Hachijogaike Pond at Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine. The crimson-tinged path surrounded by azalea plantings more than 2 meters high is magnificent.   Usual viewing time: Late April – early May The peony is a plant that symbolizes beauty and has long been used as a design for crafts and paintings. It produces beautiful and large flowers like roses.   There are 2,000 peony plants of about 30 varieties at Otokunidera Temple. Protected by white Japanese umbrellas for sun protection, the bright pink and red buttons bloom in large profusion.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Water lilies are striking aquatic plants with flowers that seem to float above the water. It is widely distributed in ponds and swamps.   Kyoyoike Pond at Ryoanji Temple, a World Heritage site, is famous for its water lilies. Not only white but also red and pink flowers cover most of the pond. The flowers often open in the morning and close at noon, so the best time to see them is in the morning.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to late August The Japanese Wisteria flowers is a species endemic to Japan and is mentioned in the Manyoshu(Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves, refers to the extensive collection of poems compiled during the Nara period in Japan). The long, hairpin-like flowers hang down in a drooping manner. Purple flowers are common, but white and pink flowers also exist. At Nakayama-dera Temple’s Star Plaza, there is a magnificent wisteria trellis that stretches about 80 meters. The rows of white wisteria flowers look like “clouds floating in a blue sky. The sweet fragrance of the flowers can also be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: Mid-April to late April ▼Check this article▼ 7 Best Spots for Wisteria Flowers in Kansai: The Spring filled with purple flowers Sorakuen garden is Kobe City’s only Japanese garden, covering an expansive area of approximately 20,000 square meters, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the seasons. In early summer, approximately 4,000 brightly colored white and pink azaleas fill the garden. Every spring, an event called “Tsutsuji Yuusan” is held, during which important cultural properties are opened to the public, musical concerts, tea ceremonies, and other events can be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: Late April – early May Roses have long been cultivated for perfumery and medicinal purposes.” It is said to be “the flower that symbolizes love,” and is often used in arrangements and bouquets because of its gorgeous appearance and wide variety of types and colors.   At Aramaki Rose Park in Itami, approximately 10,000 roses bloom in a stylish southern European-style garden. The view of the park, with its sloping terrain and colorful colors, is a must-see.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to mid-June Japanese Primrose is the largest member of the primrose family, with flower stalks that can reach 80 cm in length. It grows in clusters in wetlands at the foot of mountains.   At the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, numerous alpine plants bloom from May to June. The 5,000 or so Japanese Primrose that fill the wetlands are especially breathtaking.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to late May ▼Check this article▼ Mt.Rokko, Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Perfect Panoramic Views and Outdoor Adventure Park! The colorful flowers that bloom in spring are a source of comfort and relaxation for those who see them. Why don’t you take advantage of the warm, sunny weather and visit some of the best places and spots for flowers in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe?

日本でおすすめのマラソン大会5選：エントリー方法・アクセス・旅行のポイント

Japan is highly regarded by runners around the world for being safe and easy to run in, as well as for its beautiful cityscapes. From cherry blossom-lined routes in Tokyo and Kyoto to unique winter runs on snow in Hokkaido, the country offers a wide variety of unforgettable courses. In this guide, we introduce some of the best marathon events in the Kansai region—where you can not only enjoy the race itself, but also explore nearby attractions and indulge in local cuisine.   Index 1. Kobe Marathon [Scheduled for Sunday, November 15, 2026] 2. Nara Marathon [Held annually in December] 3. Kyoto Marathon [Held annually in February] 4. Osaka Marathon [Held annually in February] 5. Himeji Castle Marathon [Held annually in February] 6. Recommended “City Run” Spots in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe One of the highlights of the Kobe Marathon is the chance to run past stunning waterfront scenery unique to this port city, including views of the Kobe waterfront and the iconic Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The course features minimal elevation changes, making it beginner-friendly and ideal for those aiming to achieve a personal best. With convenient access to the старт area, participants can join the race with ease and minimal stress.   ・Date: Scheduled for Sunday, November 15, 2026 ・Entry Period: Applications open from mid-April ・Entry Method: Lottery system ・Start Location: In front of Kobe City Hall ・Access: 5 min walk from “Kobe-Sannomiya Station” on the Hankyu and Hanshin lines ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around Kobe-Sannomiya Station   ▼Kobe Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals   The Nara Marathon offers a truly unique course that takes runners past historic landmarks such as Todai-ji Temple and Nara Park, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. While the second half is known for its challenging hills, the sense of accomplishment upon finishing is incredibly rewarding.   ・Date: Held annually in December ・Entry Period: Applications typically open from mid-June (based on 2025 schedule) ・Entry Method: First-come, first-served ・Start Location: Rohto Field Nara (based on 2025) ・Access: 20 min walk from Kintetsu-Nara Station /  30 min walk from JR Nara Station ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around JR Nara Station   ▼Nara Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ Enjoy the Great Buddha of Nara, the pride of Japan’s World Heritage and power spot The Kyoto Marathon showcases the very best of the city, taking runners past iconic sights such as Arashiyama and Ninnaji Temple, along the scenic Kamo River, and finishing at Heian Jingu Shrine. While the first half features some gentle inclines, the charming, historic scenery provides plenty of motivation along the way. Its popularity is also boosted by the convenient location, just steps from the nearest station.   ・Date: Held annually in February ・Entry Period: Applications expected to open from mid-July (for 2026) ・Entry Method: Lottery system ・Start Location: Takebishi Stadium Kyoto ・Access: Next to “Nishikyogoku Station” on Hankyu Kyoto line ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around “Kyoto-kawaramachi Station” on Hankyu Kyoto line   ▼Kyoto Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ Within Walking Distance from Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station: Easy-to-Visit Popular Sightseeing Spots 7 Japanese Sweets “Wagashi” in Kyoto. To taste, to buy, to know, to experience. One of the largest marathons in Japan, the Osaka Marathon is a lively, festival-like event with an incredible atmosphere. The area, located in front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Office, is right next to Osaka Castle—offering beautiful views of its iconic main tower. The course takes runners through the heart of Osaka, including major streets like Midosuji and Dotonbori, with nonstop cheers from spectators energizing participants along the way.   ・Date: Held annually in February ・Entry Period: Applications expected to open from late July (for 2026) ・Entry Method: Lottery system ・Start Location: In front of the Osaka Prefectural Government Office Building ・Access: About 10 min walk from “Tanimachi 4-chome Station” on the Osaka Metro Chuo and Tanimachi line ・Nearby Hotels: Numerous options available around “Osaka-umeda Station” on the Hankyu line   ▼Osaka Sightseeing & Gourmet Info▼ Half-Day Tours in Osaka! 8 Local Trip Recommendations [2025] Best 11 Food in Osaka Umeda: From the Newest Restaurants to Classic Japanese Cuisine 5 Private Onsen & Baths to enjoy in Osaka! Hot spring resorts to stay overnight or enjoy on a day trip Due to parking facility renovation work around the venue, the event is scheduled to be suspended in 2027. We look forward to its return! Even outside of official races, there are plenty of great spots in Kansai where you can enjoy a casual run while traveling. Here are some recommended running courses:   Osaka Castle Park (Osaka) Approximately 4 km per loop. This open and scenic course lets you run while enjoying views of Osaka Castle. With few traffic lights and beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, it’s a favorite among runners.   Kamo River (Kyoto) A classic running route with no traffic lights and soft dirt paths that are gentle on your legs. You can start anywhere along the river—such as Shijo or Sanjo—and run at your own pace, making it very convenient.   Nijo-jo Castle (Kyoto) Approximately 3.3 km per loop. Run alongside the historic stone walls of the castle on a traffic-free course. It’s well-lit at night, making it ideal for a safe and enjoyable night run.   Himeji Castle (Kobe・Himeji) Approximately 3 km per loop. This course offers close-up views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle. The castle is illuminated from sunset until midnight, allowing you to enjoy a truly special night run.   How did you like these options? Kansai offers a wide range of marathon events and running spots where you can not only enjoy the run itself, but also explore local attractions and indulge in regional cuisine. Find the perfect race or route for you, and experience the joy of running through Japan’s vibrant cities!

【京都】貴船神社｜ご利益、見どころ、お守りや御朱印まで徹底ガイド！

Kifune Shrine, one of the most famous power spots in Japan, is a small shrine located in Kifune-cho, at the foot of Kurama Mountain in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, and is dedicated to the god of water. Located at the source of the Kamo River that flows through Kyoto, it is also called “Kyoto’s inner city” because it is filled with cool air even in mid-summer. In this issue, we will introduce Kifune Shrine’s benefits, access, attractions, charms, and goshuin. Kifune Shrine enshrines the god of water, the source of life, and is the main shrine of the water gods, numbering 2,000 shrines throughout Japan. The date of its founding is extremely old, and although the origin of the shrine is unknown, it is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, as there is a record of the rebuilding of the shrine about 1,300 years ago. Kifune Shrine is located in the deep forest between Mount Kibune and Mount Kurama. The shrine tends to be crowded during the spring and fall holiday seasons and on weekends, so it is best to use public transportation. From Hankyu Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, transfer to a Keihan train bound for Demachiyanagi to the last stop, Demachiyanagi Station. Then transfer to the Eizan Train bound for Kurama and get off at Kibune-guchi Station. From there, take Kyoto Bus No. 33 and get off at the Kibune stop. A 5-minute walk will take you to Kifune Shrine. Kifune Shrine has three Shinto shrines, and the official way to visit the shrine is to make a pilgrimage to the three shrines, which are ” Main Shrine”, ” Rear Shrine”, and ” Yui no Yashiro”, in that order. Start your tour of the three shrines from Kibuneguchi Station on the Eizan Electric Railway. Walk along the Kibune River from Kibune-guchi Station for a while, and you will see a large rock on the right side. This is called Hotaruiwa (firefly rock). Fireflies are not easily seen in central Kyoto, but Kibune is still famous for its clear water and fireflies. A five-minute walk further north from Hotaruiwa is Umemiya-sha. It is a small shrine attached to Kifune Shrine. It is really small, so be careful not to miss it. Further upstream from Umemiya-sha, you will find Shiraishi-sha. Passing through a street lined with ryokan (traditional Japanese inns), you will see a vermilion torii (shrine gate). That is the second torii gate of Kifune Shrine. It is the entrance to the Main Shrine. After passing through the torii gate, you will see vermilion-lacquered kasuga lanterns and stone steps on both sides. There are 87 stone steps. This is a must-see spot to take pictures when you visit Kifune Shrine. Let’s go up the stone steps step by step. At the top of the stairs is the sacred Katsura tree. The tree is 400 years old and 30 meters high, almost reaching to the sky. Its many overlapping branches, spreading out in all directions, resemble a dragon ascending to the heavens. Originally, the Main Shrine was located at the present Rear Shrine site, but due to repeated flood damage, it was moved to its present location in 1055. The present one was rebuilt in 2005. The water is located right next to the Main Shrine. It has been gushing out of the rocks for thousands of years without ceasing. The water is somewhat divine in its flowing appearance. Of course, this water is drinkable. You can also take it home in a plastic bottle or water bottle that you brought with you. *If you drink the water you brought home the next day, it is recommended that you boil it before drinking it. Finally, we will go to the Rear Shrine. There is a hand-watering basin in front of the Rear Shrine, so cleanse your hands here before praying. Legend has it that there is a large hole, called a “Ryuketsu(dragon hole)”, directly below the main shrine of the Rear Shrine. However, no one is allowed to look into the hole. The Rear Shrine is considered to be a particularly powerful place in the Kifune Shrine. The Yui no Yashiro, also called Nakamiya, is located between the Main Shrine and the Rear Shrine and is believed to be the god of marriage. Those who wish for a good marriage should write their feelings in a “Knot Letter” and deliver it to the Yui no Yashiro. Kifune Shrine is open until 8:00 p.m., and at sunset the Kasuga lanterns are lit, creating a very magical atmosphere. During the fall foliage season, lanterns are lined up and illuminated along the Ryokan street and along the road from the Main Shrine to the Yui no Yashiro and Rear Shrine. In winter, a light-up event is held only during snowfall. When visiting a shrine, it is not out of the question to receive a fortune or an omikuji (charm). Here, we introduce you to the Kibune Shrine and its amulets. Kifune Shrine is known for its “mizuura-mikuji”. It is an unusual omikuji in that when the paper of the omikuji is floated in water, the words of the god emerge. Since the god of water is said to be able to foresee all things, this mizuura-mikuji has a reputation for being accurate. The most famous amulet at Kifune Shrine is the Musubi-mamori. This amulet, which brings good luck for good luck in marriage, is available in two types: a pouch type and a letter type. The bag type is embroidered with the two main characters of a love story, while the letter type is shaped like a Knot Letter of the Yui no Yashiro. Kifune Shrine’s original Goshuin book has a wonderful design. Gold, pink, and black are available. Also stylish are the bags for carrying Goshuin book made in collaboration with Shinzaburo Hanpu, a long-established canvas store in Kyoto. There are many temples and shrines that sell Goshuin book, but it is rare to find a Goshuin book bag. How about one as a souvenir of your visit to the temple? Walking along the flow of the Kibune River, you will find a row of small ryokan (Japanese-style inns) in the mountains. These ryokans offer kaiseki cuisine served on the floor of the Kibune River. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, Kyoto is a basin area, and summers are especially hot, so in summer, Kibune is crowded with people seeking cooler weather.   ▼Check out this article for more on riverside dining▼ Top 8 Kawadoko River Dining Restaurants in Kyoto (Kamogawa, Kibune & Takao) How was it? The name of the place, Kibune, is read as “Kibune,” but Kifune Shrine is read as “Kifune-jinja” . It is said that the name of Kifune Shrine is a prayer that the pure water will never become muddy. Visiting such a Kifune Shrine, you will be filled with gratitude for the water of life, and you will feel a sense of strength. We hope you will visit Kifune Shrine, too.   ▼Check out this article▼ Kyoto Goshuin Guide: 6 Goshuin from Famous Shrines to Recommended Goshuincho 6 Shrines to Visit in Osaka & Kyoto for Trending “Transparent Omamori” on SNS

【京都】半日コース｜建築家、隈研吾さんが設計やデザインに携わった建築巡り

【京都 洛西口】1日コース｜サイクリングで竹林へ！

【京都】1日コース｜友禅染や和菓子作りなど日本ならではの手作り体験を楽しもう！

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