Located in the heart of Kyoto, 猿田比古神社 is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the legendary hero Minamoto no Tametomo, who was said to possess supernatural strength. The shrine's primary kami is Sengiten, also known as the 'Deer God'. Visitors can explore the shrine's traditional architecture, which features a unique roof style and a beautiful garden. The shrine is also famous for its deer population, which are considered sacred animals.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Sengiten
- Kami enshrined
- Sengiten, Deer God
- Coordinates
- 35.5828723, 135.1963184
Visitor tip
Be sure to feed the friendly deer that roam the shrine's grounds - they love fresh apples!
Cultural notes
In Shinto mythology, Sengiten is said to have been a loyal servant of the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine is also famous for its annual Deer Festival (Sengan Taikai) in January, where visitors can feed and pet the deer. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Kyoto-style design, with a distinctive curved roofline and intricately carved wooden doors.
Historical note
The shrine was built in the Kamakura period (1185-1333), during the reign of Minamoto no Tametomo.