Kifune Shrine: A Mystical Sanctuary of Water and Connection
Discover Kyoto's serene Kifune Shrine: a mystical water sanctuary with vermilion lanterns, ancient legends, and unique water fortunes.
Nestled in Kyoto's serene northern mountains, Kifune Shrine is a Shinto sanctuary dedicated to the god of water, Takaokami-no-Kami. Revered for over 1,600 years, it offers a tranquil escape and is famed for its unique water divination and vibrant vermilion lanterns lining the stone steps to the main hall.
A brief summary to Kifune Shrine
- 180 Kuramakibunecho, Kyoto, Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112, JP
- +8175-741-2016
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit all three shrines (Sanja-Mairi): the Main Shrine, Okunomiya, and Yui no Yashiro, to complete the traditional pilgrimage.
- Try the unique 'mizuura mikuji' (water fortune-telling) at the Main Shrine for a mystical experience.
- Dress comfortably with walking shoes, as the shrine has stone steps and the temperature is cooler than downtown Kyoto.
- Consider visiting during the fall foliage season or winter snowfall for particularly stunning scenery.
- If visiting in summer, experience 'kawadoko' dining at restaurants along the Kibune River for a refreshing meal.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Line subway to Kokusai Kaikan Station. Transfer to the Eizan Electric Railway and ride to Kibune-guchi Station. From there, take Kyoto Bus No. 33 to the Kibune bus stop, followed by a 5-minute walk to Kifune Shrine. Alternatively, walk 20-30 minutes from Kibune-guchi Station to the shrine. The Eizan Railway from Demachi-Yanagi Station to Kibune-guchi Station costs ¥470. The Kyoto Bus No. 33 from Kibune-guchi to Kibune costs ¥200.
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Taxi
From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Kifune Shrine takes approximately 40 minutes and costs around ¥5,000-¥8,000. Note that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak seasons. Kifune Shrine has limited parking (800 yen / 2hours). Public transport is recommended due to limited parking.
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