Kibune Shrine in Kyoto

Facts & Figures

The ancient Kibune Shrine complex, also known as Kifune-jinja Shrine, is famous for the beautiful stone staircase lined by red wooden lanterns and maple trees at the entrance. The Shinto shrine complex contains 3 different pavillions (Honguu, Yui-no-yashiro, Okumiya) which can be found during a 1km hiking tour along the river Kibune.  Explore Ryokans in Kyoto >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions. The shrine is the headquarter of appr. 500 Kibune Shrines located all over Japan. This shrine has been worshiped as the god of water and rain. Also people say the Kibune Shrine brings romance to the people:) My tip: The best time to visit this place is during the cherry blossom season.

• Kibune Shrine:
• Opening Hours - 6:00 am to 8:00 pm (May to November)
• Opening Hours - 6:00 am to 6:00 pm (December to April)
• Admission Fee - free

My tips for local activities

Explore the best parts of my favourite city Kyoto with a local guide. The tour takes approximately 3,5hrs. Check out this page > for more details.

History

Kibune Shrine has a history of over 1600 years. The Shinto shrine was founded during the time of the 18th Emporer Hanzei (336 - 410).

Sightseeing spots

shrine complex:

Honguu - main hall / shrine was rebuilt in 2007

Yui-no-yashiro - also known as the Nakamiya or inner hall

Okumiya - this was the original shrine and known as back hall

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

April

Miyako Odori (1st - 31th)
The traditional annual spring dance of the Kyoto district Gion Kobu performed by Geiko and Maiko is a must-see on your Kyoto visit. Don't miss the most popular dances the Miyako Odori "Cherry Blossom Dances" or "Dances of the Old Capital" at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater (located close to Gion Corner).

May

Aoi Matsuri (15th)
The highlight of this festival is a large parade from Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to the Kamo Shrines. More than 500 people wearing aristocratic costumes from the Heian Period (794 - 1185). The Aoi Matsuri belongs with the Gion Matsuri and Jidai Matsuri to the three most famous festivals in Kyoto.

Sangyo-sai festival (lit. "Industry Festival") (8th)
This festival at the Fushimi Inari Shrine has the aim to ensure the prosperity of the nation's industry. On that day dances are performed and offerings are given in large quantities.

June

Kibune Festival (1st)
The mikoshi (portable shrine) procession along the Kibune river starts at 11.00 am. It is the most important annual festival of Kibune-jinja Shrine. During the procession traditional music will be played. Do not miss the beautiful kagura dance performance at the Kibune Shrine.

July

Gion Matsuri (whole month)
The month July is full of different events like the Yoiyama - Kyoto's Magical Night (locals in kimonos look at the giant Gion floats the day before the parade) or the famous Yamaboko Junko (float procession on the 17th of July).

October

Jidai Matsuri ("Festival of Ages") (22nd)
People celebrate with a large parade between Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine the anniversary of the foundation of Kyoto. App. 2000 participants wearing historical costumes from different time periods. Enjoy this great festival which last around 2 hours.