High Sugi Shrine, located in the heart of Kyoto, is a No-Meikō Shinto shrine dedicated to Suiji, a kami believed to reside within the sacred tree on the grounds. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance as a major stopping point for travelers along the ancient Nakagawa River Route.
- Denomination
- 無格社
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Suiji
- Kami enshrined
- Suiji, Other kami
- Coordinates
- 35.2940578, 135.0553267
Visitor tip
To respect the sacred tree, visitors are asked to tie their shoelaces before approaching it, as this is a traditional Shinto practice believed to prevent misfortune.
Cultural notes
High Sugi Shrine is associated with the mythology of the Shinmei-ki, an ancient Japanese text detailing the exploits of the god Suiji. The shrine's annual Festival of Luminous Lights (Tobira-matsuri) in autumn commemorates the god's benevolence and protection.
Historical note
Founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), High Sugi Shrine has been an important cultural and spiritual center in Kyoto ever since.