Located in the heart of Kyoto's Shirakawa district, Sakuramaru Shrine is a serene oasis honoring the god of rice, Shintoku and the sacred powers of the cherry blossom. Dating back to the 8th century, this ancient Shinto shrine has witnessed numerous historical events and remains an important site for regional festivals.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Shintoku
- Kami enshrined
- Shintoku
- Coordinates
- 34.6715508, 134.5333838
Visitor tip
Visit during cherry blossom season to witness the shrine's majestic sakura trees and participate in the traditional 'yuzen' dyeing ceremony for ceremonial garments.
Cultural notes
Sakuramaru Shrine is closely associated with the mythology of Shintoku, a rice deity believed to bring fertility and prosperity. The shrine's unique wooden gate, 'torii', features a distinctively curved design, reflecting the importance of rice production in local agriculture.
Historical note
Founded in the Asuka period (6th century), Sakuramaru Shrine has a rich history dating back over 1,400 years.