Ujigami Shrine: An Ancient Sanctuary

Ujigami Shrine, located in Uji, Kyoto, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and believed to be the oldest original Shinto shrine in Japan. Established around 1060 during the Heian period, it served as the guardian shrine for the nearby Byodo-in Temple. The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Ojin and his sons, Prince Uji no Wakiiratsuko and Emperor Nintoku. Prince Uji no Wakiiratsuko committed suicide to resolve a dispute over the imperial succession, and the shrine was built in his honor. The main hall (honden) is a prime example of nagare-zukuri architecture, characterized by its curved, asymmetrical roof extending over the main entrance. The shrine also features the Haiden (prayer hall), dating back to the Kamakura period, and the Kasuga Shrine. A unique aspect of Ujigami Shrine is the Kiriharasui spring, one of Uji's seven famous pure water sources, used in traditional tea ceremonies. Despite its historical significance, Ujigami Shrine offers a tranquil atmosphere, often overlooked by tourists flocking to Byodo-in Temple. The shrine's grounds showcase a deep reverence for nature, blending seamlessly with the surrounding wooded hills. Visitors can also find rabbit motifs throughout the shrine, stemming from a myth about a divine rabbit guiding a lost prince. Exploring Ujigami Shrine provides an immersive experience into Japan's rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.