The Shrine of the Twelve Month Chestnut is a Shinto shrine located in Kyoto, dedicated to the kami of winter and the chestnut tree. The shrine's main object of worship is Fujin Ryujin, the god of wind and water, while it also enshrines local deities related to the forest and harvest. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of Kyoto, with a square vermilion torii gate and a large wooden gate. The shrine's history dates back to the Heian period, making it one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryujin
- Kami enshrined
- Fujin, Ryujin
- Coordinates
- 35.4864578, 135.3621777
Visitor tip
When visiting the shrine, make sure to leave a small gift of chestnut nuts or a sake cup at the designated donation box to honor the kami and show respect.
Cultural notes
The Shrine of the Twelve Month Chestnut is associated with the winter solstice festival, 'Fushimi-mai', which celebrates the longest night of the year and marks the beginning of longer days. Visitors can also experience traditional chestnut-roasting ceremonies during this time, where roasted nuts are shared among devotees.
Historical note
The Shrine of the Twelve Month Chestnut was founded during the Heian period, when chestnuts were considered an important food source for the aristocracy.