Nashinoki Shrine: A Peaceful Sanctuary in Kyoto
Discover tranquility at Nashinoki Shrine in Kyoto, a historical sanctuary known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful gardens.
Nashinoki Shrine, established in 1885, is dedicated to the spirits of Sanjo Sanetsumu and his son Sanetomi, court nobles who played pivotal roles in the Meiji Restoration. The shrine is located in Kamigyo Ward, adjacent to the Kyoto Imperial Palace, in an area that was once the Sanjo family's residence. Sanjo Sanetsumu served three emperors and was instrumental in reviving the power of the Imperial institution. His son, Sanetomi, furthered this cause by actively participating in the movement to restore the Emperor. After the Meiji Restoration, Sanetomi was appointed the first daijo daijin (chief advisor). Nashinoki Shrine is also known as Hagi no Miya (Shrine of Hagi) because of its numerous bush clover plants that bloom in September. Another notable feature is the Somei well, one of Kyoto's three famous springs, which still flows today. The shrine also contains an old tearoom that once belonged to the Imperial Palace. People come to worship Sanetsumu and Sanetomi as gods of learning. Monuments to notable scholars, including Nobel Prize winner Hideki Yukawa, can be found on the grounds.
Local tips
- Visit in September to see the beautiful bush clover (hagi) in full bloom.
- Drink the Somei water, one of Kyoto's three famous springs, for a refreshing experience.
- Explore the shrine's grounds to find monuments dedicated to famous scholars.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Kyoto Imperial Palace.
A brief summary to Nashinoki Shrine
- 680 Somedonocho, Kyoto, Somedonocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, 602-0844, JP
- +8175-211-0885
- Visit website
- 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
Getting There
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Walking
From the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nashinoki Shrine is a short walk east along Nashinoki Street. The shrine is located between Teramachi Street and the Imperial Palace. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take city bus number 4, 17, or 205 and get off at the Furitsu-Medical University Hospital Mae bus stop. The shrine is a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. A single bus fare is ¥230. Alternatively, from Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to the shrine.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Kyoto. From Kyoto Station, a taxi ride to Nashinoki Shrine will take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is ¥2,090. Taxis generally accept cash and major credit cards.
Attractions Nearby to Nashinoki Shrine
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Rozan-ji Temple
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Honzen-ji Temple
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Kyoto Omiya Imperial Palace
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Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace
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Oikeniwa (Pond Garden)
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Kyoto Gyoen National Garden
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Otsunegoten (Imperial Residential Palace)
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Kemari-no-niwa (Playground for Ancient Football Game of the Imperial Court)
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Jomei-mon Gate
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Seiryoden (Inner Palace)
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Stepping Stones at Kojin
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Kyoto Imperial Palace
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Matsui Sake Brewery
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Seishomon Gate
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Boulevard before Kenreimon Gate
