Located in the Arashiyama area of western Kyoto, White Water Shrine is a serene Shinto sanctuary that honors the kami of water and purification. Dedicated to the spirit of the white waterfalls of the nearby Arashiyama bamboo forest, this shrine embodies the tranquility and natural beauty of its surroundings. Its architecture blends traditional Japanese design with modern elements, creating a unique space for visitors to connect with nature and find inner peace.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tsukuyomi
- Kami enshrined
- Tsukuyomi, Otori-no-Kami
- Coordinates
- 35.7013913, 135.0467583
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's natural beauty, consider visiting at dawn or dusk when the soft light highlights the waterfall and surrounding bamboo forest.
Cultural notes
As one of Kyoto's most ancient shrines, White Water Shrine has connections to the mythology of the Katsuragi-san mountain range in Nara Prefecture. The shrine is also known for its unique festival, the Tsutsuhi Matsuri, which celebrates the purification of water and the spirits that inhabit it.
Historical note
Founded in 1488 during the Muromachi period, White Water Shrine has a long history of serving as a sacred site for purification and spiritual rejuvenation.