Place of worship • 180 Kuramakibunechō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1112, Japan
Nestled amidst the lush green mountains in the northern part of Kyoto, there lies Kifune Shrine, known as the 'Kifune no Chi.' It is located about a 30-minute drive from the city center and is blessed with a rich natural environment. As you walk along the approach, you will encounter a sacred space bathed in sunlight filtering through the leaves.
The primary deity of Kifune Shrine is Takao Kami no Kami, who governs the supply of water. This ancient and important deity appears in the Nihon Shoki, an ancient chronicle of Japan. It is said to be able to summon clouds and rain, and to gradually well up rainwater gathered in the rivers, thus gathering devout faith as the 'god of water sources.'
Points of interest are scattered around, such as the main hall, the inner sanctuary, and subsidiary shrines. The 'water fortune-telling' that reveals your fortune when floated on the pond is particularly popular. Additionally, there are pools of pure spring water scattered throughout the precincts, which visitors can freely draw from. With the arrival of each season, visitors can experience different scenery - the fresh greenery of spring, the cool green shade of summer, the autumn leaves of fall, and the snowy landscape of winter.
Kifune Shrine can be conveniently accessed by the Kyoto Municipal Subway and city buses. It is known as a spot for viewing autumn leaves, with the best viewing period from mid-November to early December. The cherry blossoms and fresh greenery bloom from mid-March to early May. The riverside dining in July is a lively time. In winter, visitors can enjoy the snow-covered landscape, and the 'yukimi-kawayuka' event is held.
A visit to Kifune Shrine allows one to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, enveloped in the refreshing embrace of nature, and contemplate the presence of ancient deities. Isn't it a wonderful idea to immerse oneself, even for a moment, in the enchanting allure of the 'water deities,' sometimes powerful and sometimes profoundly benevolent?
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