Jōnangū Shrine: A Sanctuary of History and Serenity

Jōnangū Shrine, whose name literally means 'the shrine south of the capital' , was established in 794 when the capital moved to Heian-kyo (Kyoto). Built to protect the capital from evil spirits and ensure peace , the shrine enshrines deities of national territory, bravery, safe childbirth, and child rearing. Emperors visited to pray for protection and the security of the court. Serving as a guardian for construction, transportation, and travel, Jōnangū attracts worshippers seeking protection from misfortune and safe travels. The shrine was once part of the Toba Detached Palace during the Heian period, a base for cloistered emperors. It was also the site of the Battle of Toba-Fushimi in 1868, a pivotal clash in the Meiji Restoration. The shrine's gardens, known as Rakusuien, showcase the history of Japanese garden design through five distinct areas : Spring Mountain Garden (Haru no Yama), Heian Period-style Garden, Muromachi Period-style Garden, Momoyama Period-style Garden, and Jōnan Imperial Villa Garden. The gardens feature 150 plum trees, 300 camellia bushes, and nearly 100 maple trees, along with plants featured in *The Tale of Genji*. Jōnangū is particularly renowned for its weeping plum blossoms, which bloom in late winter and early spring. Visitors can also witness the *Kyokusui no Utage* (Wandering Stream Banquet), a re-enactment of an ancient imperial poetry game held twice a year. Shrine maidens perform sacred dances called *Kagura*, blessing participants with seasonal flowers. A mascot of Little One-Inch, from a classic Japanese tale, can be found near the main hall.