Located in the heart of Kyoto, 稲代神社・吉原神社 is a historic Shinto shrine that has been dedicated to the worship of two deities: Hachiman (the god of war) and Ichi-no-Kami (a generic term for the sun goddess). The shrine's architecture reflects its Heian-era roots, with a serene garden and a traditional torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine's grounds, which feature several historic buildings and artifacts.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman, Ichi-no-Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Ichi-no-Kami
- Coordinates
- 35.6204362, 135.0451498
Visitor tip
To make the most of your visit, consider arriving early in the morning to witness the shrine's peaceful atmosphere before the crowds arrive. Also, be sure to try some of the local food vendors' offerings, which often feature traditional Kyoto sweets and tea.
Cultural notes
Ichi-no-Kami is associated with the mythological creation of Japan, where she threw a jewel into the sea, creating the islands that would eventually become Japan's archipelago. Hachiman is revered for his role as patron deity of the samurai class and is often invoked by warriors seeking protection in battle.
Historical note
The shrine was originally founded in 718 AD during the Nara period, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.