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Kifune Shrine is an ancient shrine located north of Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, at the western foot of Mount Kurama. It serves as the main shrine of Kifune Jinja, and its principal deity is Takayasu-jinja, the dragon deity responsible for bringing and stopping rain. While its exact founding date is unknown, the shrine was originally dedicated to the guardian deity of mountains, forests, and water. It was relocated to its current location in 1055, and the current building dates back to 1911.
Kifune Shrine is rumored to be one of the three most acclaimed shrines in Japan for finding a good match, making it particularly popular among women. The shrine, dedicated to the water god, offers a unique water divination method. After drawing a fortune, a blank stick is placed in the shrine's water, whereupon a piece of paper emerges.
Best time to travel
August and Autumn
Kifune Shrine is located in a mountainous area with dense forests, so you won't feel the summer heat even in August, and in autumn, the maple leaves will show brilliant colors.
【Recommended Activities】
→Kawadoko cuisine
The restaurant inside the shrine offers kawadoko cuisine, and visitors can dine on tatami mats over the river while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
→Lantern-shaped approach
The red lanterns on both sides of the shrine are very beautiful when lit up at night, making it a great place to take photos.
→ Water Divination
In the "Shuizhan Zhaiting", if you place a pure white fortune stick on the water surface, the words on the stick will emerge after a while. It is said that the water god can predict everything, so the water divination here is also famous for its effectiveness.
【Recommended Play Time】
3-4 hours
Free and open
06:00-20:00
Kifune Shrine, located in Kyoto, Japan, is dedicated to the Shinto god of water and rain. Established centuries ago, it is traditionally visited by travelers seeking protection and couples praying for romantic blessings.
The shrine is in the northern mountains of Kyoto. Accessible by the Eizan Electric Railway from Demachiyanagi Station to Kibuneguchi Station, followed by a 5–10 minute walk or short taxi ride. Walking trails from nearby areas are also popular.
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Best visiting times are spring and autumn for mild weather and scenic surroundings; early morning weekdays are least crowded.
Entrance to Kifune Shrine is free. Special exhibitions or events may have a small fee, payable onsite.
No advance booking is required for general visits. Reservations may be needed for special ceremonies or group tours.
1–2 hours to explore the main shrine, surrounding forest, and perform rituals.
Guided tours are limited but occasionally available in English and Japanese. No official audio guides are standard; self-guided exploration is common.
Night illumination occurs occasionally during seasonal events. Special Shinto ceremonies may allow guided visits for participants.
Moderately crowded, especially on weekends, public holidays, and during autumn foliage. Early mornings on weekdays are the quietest.
Basic facilities include public restrooms, small souvenir shops, tea houses, and vending machines. Limited rest areas are available along the paths.
Stone steps and uneven terrain may be challenging for elderly or wheelchair users. Children can visit with supervision. Some paths may require moderate climbing.
Cash is preferred for small purchases, offerings, and fortune-telling. Cards and mobile payments are generally not accepted at the shrine.
Vegetarian options available at some local eateries. Vegan or halal options are limited; inquire in advance.
Souvenirs include ema (wooden wishing plaques), amulets, local crafts, and specialty sweets from nearby tea houses.
