Kifune Shrine: A Serene Oasis of Spirituality in Kyoto

Discover the tranquility of Kifune Shrine in Kyoto, where spirituality meets natural beauty in a serene mountain setting.

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Kifune Shrine

Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Kyoto, Kifune Shrine offers a tranquil escape into Japan's spiritual heritage. Surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature, this Shinto shrine is a must-visit for tourists seeking peace and a deeper connection to Japanese culture. With its stunning architecture and sacred atmosphere, Kifune Shrine invites visitors to explore its scenic pathways and experience traditional rituals amidst breathtaking landscapes.

A brief summary to Kifune Shrine

180 Kuramakibunecho, Kyoto, Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112, JP
+8175-741-2016
Visit website

Monday 6 am-8 pm
Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
Thursday 6 am-8 pm
Friday 6 am-8 pm
Saturday 6 am-8 pm
Sunday 6 am-8 pm

Local tips

Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and witness the shrine bathed in the soft morning light.
Don't miss the opportunity to try the local specialty, Yudofu (tofu hot pot), available at nearby restaurants.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you will likely want to explore the scenic walking trails around the shrine.
Check the local festival calendar to experience traditional events and rituals that take place throughout the year.

Getting There

Car

If you're traveling by car, head towards Kurama from Kyoto city center. Take the R38 road north and follow the signs for Kurama. Once you reach Kurama, continue on Route 477, which will lead you directly to Kifune Shrine. There is a small parking area near the shrine, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. The parking fee is approximately 500 yen per hour.
Public Transportation

For those using public transportation, take the Eizan Electric Railway from Demachiyanagi Station in Kyoto. Board the train heading towards Kurama and get off at Kurama Station. The journey takes about 30 minutes. From Kurama Station, it’s a scenic 30-minute walk to Kifune Shrine. Follow the path that runs along the river; it's well-marked and offers beautiful views of the countryside. If you prefer, you can also take a bus from Kurama Station to Kifune, which costs about 230 yen.
Walking

If you're already in the Kurama area, you can walk to Kifune Shrine. From the center of Kurama, head northeast on Route 477. The walk takes about 30 minutes, and the path is surrounded by lush greenery and small shops, making it a pleasant and peaceful experience. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the route can be steep in places.

Discover more about Kifune Shrine

Kifune Shrine, a revered Shinto shrine located in the mountainous region of Kyoto, is an enchanting destination that captivates tourists with its natural beauty and spiritual significance. Surrounded by dense forests and the gentle flow of the nearby river, this shrine has been a sacred site for centuries, dedicated to the deity of water, Takaokami no Kami. As you approach the shrine, you will be greeted by a picturesque path lined with vibrant red lanterns that illuminate your way, creating a mystical atmosphere, especially in the evenings when they are lit up. Upon entering the shrine grounds, visitors are welcomed by a stunning wooden torii gate, marking the boundary between the sacred and the mundane. The architecture of Kifune Shrine is both traditional and striking, featuring intricate carvings and a serene ambiance that invites reflection. The main hall, or Honden, is beautifully adorned and offers a space for worshippers to engage in traditional Shinto practices, including making offerings and writing wishes on colorful ema plaques. The surrounding area offers various scenic walking trails, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the lush greenery and stunning landscapes characteristic of the region. The shrine is particularly beautiful during the cherry blossom season and the vibrant autumn foliage, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can also take part in seasonal festivals held at the shrine, which showcase traditional performances and rituals, providing an authentic experience of Japanese culture. Kifune Shrine is more than just a religious site; it is a place of peace and tranquility that offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japan's rich spiritual heritage. Whether you are seeking solace, cultural insight, or simply a beautiful location to explore, Kifune Shrine is an unmissable gem in Kyoto’s treasure trove of attractions.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Shugakuin Imperial Villa

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Kyoto Botanical Gardens

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Daisen-in Temple

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Kamogawa Park

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Enryaku-ji Daikodo (Grand Lecture Hall)

9.1 km

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Takimata Falls

9.6 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Takimata Falls, a serene escape into nature amidst Kyoto's enchanting landscapes.

Kinkaku-ji

9.7 km

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TOURS IN KYOTO

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Kamogawa Delta

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Yumemigaoka Observation Deck

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Ryōan-ji

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Kyoto Imperial Palace

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Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

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Higashiyama Jisho-ji

11.0 km

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Stepping Stones at Kojin

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Unmissable attractions to see

Kifune

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Maōden

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Experience the serene beauty and spiritual depth of Maōden Temple, a hidden gem in Kyoto’s lush hills, perfect for reflection and nature lovers.

Kifune-jinja Shrine - Yui no Yashiro (Nakamiya [Middle Shrine])

0.5 km

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Kifune-jinja Shrine - Yui no Yashiro (Nakamiya [Middle Shrine])

Root path (Kinone michi)

0.6 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Root Path (Kinone Michi) in Kyoto, a scenic trail perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Kifune Shrine - Okumiya [Rear Shrine]

0.8 km

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Mount Kurama

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Kurama-dera

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Kuramadera Temple

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Yuki Shrine

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Kuramadera Temple Niōmon

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Kurama Hot Spring

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Craft Gallery SALUK

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Kawashima Textile Museum

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Jisso-in

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Shimyo-in Temple

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Omi-ya

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Kichisen

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Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa

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Steak Ichiro

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cafe kozora

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Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura

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Restaurant Higakisaryo

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Okonomiyaki Katsu

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Nakaso Tango

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Monk

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Tategami

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Arash's Kitchen

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Saishuan Shiraki

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Discover Kyoto's fashion scene at mina Kyoto, where modern style meets traditional craftsmanship in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.

Dive into Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at UNDERBAR-KYOTO, where cocktails, darts, and music create an unforgettable evening.

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Kifune Shrine: A Serene Oasis of Spirituality in Kyoto

A brief summary to Kifune Shrine

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Walking

Unlock the Best of Kifune Shrine

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Kifune Shrine

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Shugakuin Imperial Villa

Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Daisen-in Temple

Kamogawa Park

Enryaku-ji Daikodo (Grand Lecture Hall)

Takimata Falls

Kinkaku-ji

TOURS IN KYOTO

Kamogawa Delta

Yumemigaoka Observation Deck

Ryōan-ji

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

Higashiyama Jisho-ji

Stepping Stones at Kojin

Unmissable attractions to see

Kifune

Maōden

Kifune-jinja Shrine - Yui no Yashiro (Nakamiya [Middle Shrine])

Root path (Kinone michi)

Kifune Shrine - Okumiya [Rear Shrine]

Mount Kurama

Kurama-dera

Kuramadera Temple

Yuki Shrine

Kuramadera Temple Niōmon

Kurama Hot Spring

Craft Gallery SALUK

Kawashima Textile Museum

Jisso-in

Shimyo-in Temple

Essential places to dine

Hirobun

Omi-ya

菜食ペッティロッソ 京都 Pettirosso Kyoto

Kichisen

Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa

Steak Ichiro

cafe kozora

Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura

Restaurant Higakisaryo

Okonomiyaki Katsu

Nakaso Tango

Monk

Tategami

Arash's Kitchen

Saishuan Shiraki

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Bando Kinran - Co., Ltd. Bando Store

Kyo-komono Kinugasa

Kyoto Handicraft Center

Daikichi

D_MALL京都

京都・うつわ・食器 / Gallery Nisui 而水

Rōji Tempo

Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade

Furugiya KINJI Kyototen

GOHOBI - Kyoto Sanjo-Teramachi

musubi -kyoto-

Media Shop

kindal kyoto sanjo horikawa second hand store

MoMA Design Store Kyoto

mina Kyoto

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

House of KI NO BI

Bar K6

Bar Fishbowl

菜食ペッティロッソ京都 Pettirosso Kyoto

Lounge & Bar 1867 (ダーワ・悠洛京都 by バンヤン・グループ)