Mikami Shrine
Mikami Shrine: A Serene Sanctuary in Kyoto
Mikami Shrine: Japan's Unique Hair Shrine
A unique Shinto shrine in Kyoto dedicated to the deity of hair, attracting those in the beauty industry and individuals seeking blessings for healthy hair.
Mikami Shrine, nestled in Kyoto's Arashiyama district, is a distinctive Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity of hair and hairstyling. Established in honor of Fujii Hidesato, a legendary hairdresser from the Heian period, it attracts hairstylists and those seeking blessings for healthy hair. The shrine features hair-related artifacts and offers rituals for hairstyling success.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Mikami Shrine
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
10 Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Kyoto, Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, JP
Monday
9 am-4 pm
Tuesday
9 am-4 pm
Wednesday
9 am-4 pm
Thursday
9 am-4 pm
Friday
9 am-4 pm
Saturday
9 am-4 pm
Sunday
9 am-4 pm
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Getting There
Walking
From the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, walk west along the main path. After about 5-10 minutes, you'll see signs for Mikami Shrine. The shrine is a short walk from the main path. The walk is generally flat and easy.
Public Transport
Take the Sagano Scenic Railway to Torokko Arashiyama Station. From the station, Mikami Shrine is just a 1-minute walk. The Sagano Scenic Railway offers a scenic route through the Hozu River valley. A one-way ticket costs around ¥630.
Taxi
From central Kyoto, a taxi to Mikami Shrine will take approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost is ¥5,000-¥7,000. Taxis can be easily hailed from Kyoto Station or other major tourist areas.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
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Purchase a comb charm for good luck and healthy hair.
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Take time to read the ema (votive tablets) for an insight into the wishes and prayers of fellow visitors.
Discover more about Mikami Shrine
Mikami Shrine, located in the scenic Arashiyama area of Kyoto, is a truly unique and special place. Unlike typical shrines, Mikami Shrine is dedicated to the deity of hair and hairstyling, making it a must-visit for those in the beauty industry or anyone seeking blessings for healthy and beautiful hair.
The shrine's origins trace back to the Kamakura period (1192-1333), honoring Masayuki Unemenosuke, considered Japan's first hairdresser. He served women by styling their hair and was highly respected. After his death, the shrine was built to honor him. Today, Mikami Shrine is visited by hairstylists, beauty salon owners, and individuals hoping to pass cosmetology exams.
Visitors can admire the comb-shaped ema (votive tablets) and charms, and participate in rituals to pray for good fortune in hairstyling endeavors. The shrine's serene environment and cultural significance offer a specialized and interesting destination for those exploring Kyoto's religious traditions.
A brief summary to Mikami Shrine
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