Kumano Nyakuoji-jinja in Kyoto

Facts & Figures

The Shinto shrine Kumano Nyakuoji-jinja marks the end point of the famous Philosopher's Walk in Kyoto. Kumano Nyakuoji-jinja belongs to the group of three Kumano shrines in the city.  Explore Ryokans in Kyoto >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions. The other two are Imakumano-jinja and Kumano-jinja. Yatagarasu, a three-legged crow, is the messenger of the temple. People come here to pray for academic and business success. Interesting to know that the national Japanese soccer team is wearing the Yatagarasu as an crest/symbol for victory on their shirts. The whole area is very popular during the cherry blossom season and autumn. The Nyakuoji Mountain behind the shrine looks amazing with all the coloured leaves in October and November. On top of the mountain is also the place where the founder of the Doshisha University, Niijima Jo, lies buried with his wife Yae. If you explore the other side of the mountain you will find a beautiful garden space called Oukaen with nearly 100 cherry trees (Yae and Yoko Sakura) and Takinomiya Shrine located under a waterfall.

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

In 1160 Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine was founded by retired Emperor Go-Shirakawa (1127 – 1192). The Shinto shrine was established as a guardian shrine for Nyakuoji Temple. It was supported by the Muromachi shogunate and warrior families. Major reconstruction work was done in the end of the last century.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Honden - The main hall of the small shrine complex has an interesting architecture style.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

April

Cherry Blossom (Hanami) (beginning of April)
Take your time to walk along hundreds of cherry trees at the Philosopher's Walk. At the Kumano Nyakuoji-jinja you can enjoy during the first Sunday in April Taisho koto performances (Japanese harp with two to five strings) till 4pm.

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.

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.