Kamigamo Shrine: Kyoto's Ancient Sanctuary
Discover Kyoto's ancient Kamigamo Shrine, a serene UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and rich Shinto traditions.
Kamigamo Shrine, officially named Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine, is a significant Shinto sanctuary located in northern Kyoto. Founded in 678, it predates Kyoto's establishment as the capital and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine is dedicated to Kamo Wakeikazuchi no Okami, the god of thunder, and has been revered for over 1,300 years. The shrine's history is deeply intertwined with the Kamo clan and the imperial court. It served as a protector of the capital from malign influences and received imperial patronage, with emperors visiting to pray for peace and report important events to the deities. The practice of shikinen sengu, the ritual rebuilding of sacred structures every 21 years, began in 1036. Visitors can explore the vast grounds, which combine natural beauty with traditional architecture. Highlights include the main hall and tower gate, designated as important cultural properties. The Aoi Festival, one of Kyoto's three major festivals, culminates at the shrine, featuring a procession in traditional imperial court attire. The shrine also features two iconic sand cones that serve to purify visitors. Kamigamo Shrine offers a tranquil and historically rich experience, showcasing the enduring traditions of Shinto and the beauty of Japanese architecture and natural landscapes.
Local tips
- Visit during the Aoi Festival on May 15th to witness a traditional imperial procession.
- Explore the nearby Kamigamo Traditional Buildings Preservation District for a glimpse into the area's history.
- Take a stroll along the Kamo River and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Shimogamo Shrine, the two are collectively known as the Kamo Shrines.
A brief summary to Kamigamo Shrine
- 339 Kamigamo Motoyama, Kyoto, Kamigamo Motoyama, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8047, JP
- +8175-781-0011
- Visit website
- Monday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 5:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 5:30 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitayama Station. From there, you can either walk 15 minutes or take Kyoto City Bus number 4 to the Kamigamo Jinja Mae bus stop, which is right by the shrine. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes from Demachi-Yanagi Station or Shimogamo Shrine. The subway fare is approximately ¥260-¥300 , and the bus fare is ¥230.
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Walking
From Kitayama Station on the Karasuma Subway Line, it is approximately a 15-minute walk to Kamigamo Shrine. The route is straightforward and well-signposted. From Shimogamo Shrine, the walk is approximately 45 minutes along the Kamo River and through the Kyoto Botanical Garden.
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Taxi
A taxi from Kyoto Station to Kamigamo Shrine takes approximately 11 minutes and costs between ¥3,500 and ¥4,300. A taxi from Kitaoji Station takes about 10 minutes. Taxis are readily available at Kyoto Station and other major transportation hubs.
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Car
Kamigamo Shrine is accessible by car. From Kyoto Station, it's about a 30-minute drive. Parking is available at the shrine for ¥100 per 30 minutes, with a ¥500 fee during busy seasons. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak times.
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Landmarks nearby to Kamigamo Shrine
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Kamogawa Park
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TOURS IN KYOTO
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Ryōan-ji
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Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
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Shugakuin Imperial Villa
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Stepping Stones at Kojin
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Face House
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Nijō Castle
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The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto
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Kyoto International Manga Museum
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Karasuma Oike ruins, Heian-kyo mark
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Higashiyama Jisho-ji
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Kyoto Shibori Museum
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Heian Shrine
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Heian-jingū Shrine