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Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Okazaki Shrine: The Rabbit Shrine of Kyoto
Discover Okazaki Shrine in Kyoto: A charming Shinto shrine known for its adorable rabbit statues and blessings for fertility and safe childbirth.
Okazaki Shrine, nestled in Kyoto's Sakyo Ward, is a Shinto shrine famed for its numerous rabbit statues and its association with fertility and safe childbirth. Originally established in 794 to protect the capital, it has evolved into a beloved destination for those seeking blessings and a touch of 'kawaii' culture.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Okazaki Shrine
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Okazaki Higashitennocho, ５１番地, Kyoto, Okazaki Higashitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8332, JP
Monday
9 am-5 pm
Tuesday
9 am-5 pm
Wednesday
9 am-5 pm
Thursday
9 am-5 pm
Friday
9 am-5 pm
Saturday
9 am-5 pm
Sunday
9 am-5 pm
Discover more about Okazaki Shrine
Okazaki Shrine, officially named Higashi Tenno Okazaki Shrine, offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern-day charm. Founded in 794 by Emperor Kanmu to protect the newly established capital of Heian-kyo (present-day Kyoto), it was one of four shrines built to guard the city from malevolent forces. Originally named Higashi-Tenno, meaning 'Eastern King,' it protected the eastern direction of the Imperial Palace.
Over time, the shrine's focus shifted after an empress successfully gave birth in 1178, leading to its association with fertility and safe childbirth. Today, it is dedicated to the kami Susano-no-mikoto and Kushinadahime-no-mikoto, deities known for their many offspring. Rabbits, symbols of fertility, are considered messengers of these deities, and countless rabbit statues adorn the grounds.
Visitors will find Koma Usagi (guardian rabbits) at the entrance, Maneki Usagi (beckoning rabbits) believed to bring good fortune, and the popular black rabbit statue near the chozuya water purification basin. It's common to see ema votive plaques decorated with rabbit motifs, where visitors write their wishes for fertility and safe childbirth. The shrine also offers omamori amulets designed for these purposes. The shrine provides a tranquil escape with fewer crowds compared to other famous Kyoto shrines.
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the Tozai subway line to Higashiyama Station. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk north to the shrine. Alternatively, take Kyoto city bus #32, #93, #100, #203, or #204 to the Okazakijinja-mae stop, which is right in front of the shrine. A single subway or bus fare costs around ¥230.
Walking
Okazaki Shrine is within walking distance of several popular sites, including Heian Jingu Shrine and Nanzenji Temple. From Heian Jingu Shrine, walk east along Marutamachi-dori avenue. The shrine will be on your right, marked by a large torii gate.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Kyoto. A short taxi ride from Gion-Shijo Station to Okazaki Shrine will cost approximately ¥800-¥1000. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver beforehand.
A brief summary to Okazaki Shrine
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