What is Goryo Shrine?
Goryo Shrines are shrines founded during the Heian period based on the Goryo faith, to appease the vengeful spirits of those who met untimely deaths. Shrines with the same name exist throughout Japan, each enshrining different deities.
Origins of Goryo Faith
During the Heian period, it was believed that the vengeful spirits of nobles and members of the imperial family who died untimely deaths after losing political struggles caused epidemics and natural disasters. The Goryo faith began with the attempt to prevent disasters by enshrining and appeasing these vengeful spirits as gods.
Representative Goryo figures include Sugawara no Michizane (Tenjin faith), Prince Sawara, and Prince Iyo.
Major Goryo Shrines
Kami-Goryo Shrine (Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City)
History and Deities
Its official name is “Goryo Shrine,” and it is an ancient shrine believed to have existed since before the relocation of the capital to Heian-kyo in 794 (Enryaku 13). It enshrines eight spirits, including Prince Sawara, Princess Inoue, and Prince Otobe.
It is also known as the site where the Onin War (1467) began, and a stone monument marking the “Breakout Site of the Onin War” stands on the shrine grounds.
Points to Note When Visiting
- Main Hall Visit: Prayers for protection against misfortune and disaster at the main hall, which enshrines the eight spirits.
- Forest of Spirits: The sacred forest within the temple grounds is designated as a protected forest by Kyoto City, offering a tranquil atmosphere.
- Onin War Historical Site: A stone monument and explanatory plaque that are a must-see for history buffs.
- Goshuin (Temple Seal): Both pre-printed and handwritten seals are available (Reception hours: 9:00-17:00)
Benefits
- Protection against misfortune and disaster
- Extermination of disease
- Family safety
- Academic success (as Sugawara no Michizane is also enshrined here)
Access Information
Location: 495 Kamigoryomae-dori Karasuma Higashi-iru Kamigoryomae-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Train:
- 3-minute walk from Kuramaguchi Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line
- Take the Kyoto City Bus to “Karasuma Kuramaguchi” stop, then a 5-minute walk.
Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office: 9:00-17:00)
Parking: Available (Free, approximately 10 spaces)
Shimogoryo Shrine (Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City)
History and Deities
This shrine is a counterpart to Kamigoryo Shrine and was founded in the early Heian period. It enshrines eight deities, including Kibi no Makibi and Tachibana no Hayanari. Originally located in the same place as Kamigoryo Shrine, it was later moved to its current location.
Points to Note When Visiting
- Main Hall: The impressive shrine architecture is a highlight.
- Relationship with Shinsen-en Garden: It holds deep historical significance as the birthplace of the Goryo-e ritual.
- Quiet Grounds: Despite being in the city center, it has a peaceful atmosphere.
Benefits
- Protection from evil
- Fulfillment of wishes
- Business prosperity
Access Information
Location: Shimogoryomae-cho, Teramachi-dori Marutamachi-sagaru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Train:
- 10-minute walk from Marutamachi Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line
- 8-minute walk from Jingu-Marutamachi Station on the Keihan Railway
Visiting Hours: 6:00-20:00 (Shrine Office 9:00-17:00)
Parking: None (Use nearby coin parking)
Kamakura Gongoro Shrine (Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
History and Deity
The official name is “Goryo Shrine.” It enshrines Kamakura Gongoro Kagemasa, a samurai from the late Heian period. Affectionately known as “Gongoro-sama,” it is revered as a deity that heals eye diseases.
Points to Note When Visiting
- Mask Procession: A unique festival held annually on September 18th, featuring a procession of people wearing 10 different masks.
- Belief for Healing Eye Diseases: Based on the legend of Kagemasa, who continued fighting even after being shot in the eye.
- Photo Spot with Enoshima Electric Railway: The view of the Enoden train passing in front of the torii gate is popular.
Benefits
- Healing of eye diseases
- Long-lasting military fortune
- Protection from evil
- Good health
Access Information
Location: 4-9 Sakanoshita, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
Train:
- 5-minute walk from Hase Station on the Enoshima Electric Railway
Visiting Hours: Grounds are open freely (Shrine office 9:00-17:00)
Parking: None (Use paid parking lots around Hase Station)
Etiquette and Manners for Visiting Goryo Shrine
Basic Visiting Etiquette
- Bow at the Torii Gate: Bow before entering the shrine grounds.
- Purify at the Water Basin: Purify in the following order: left hand → right hand → mouth → handle of left hand.
- Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow: Pray in front of the main shrine according to the basic etiquette.
- Bow Upon Exit: Turn around and bow when leaving the torii gate.
Unique Mindset for Goryo Shrine
Goryo Shrine is a shrine dedicated to appeasing vengeful spirits, so please keep the following points in mind:
- Worship with a Reverent Heart: Do not forget to show respect to those who met untimely deaths.
- Worship Quietly: Do not make noise and maintain a solemn atmosphere.
- Photography: Be mindful of areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main shrine.
Annual Events at Goryo Shrine
Major Festivals
Goryo Festival (May 18th, Kami-Goryo Shrine)
A traditional festival that has continued since the Heian period. The festival features a portable shrine procession and Kagura (sacred dance) performances, attracting many worshippers.
Annual Grand Festival (September 18th, Kamakura Goryo Shrine)
Famous for its masked procession. A procession of people wearing 10 different masks, including those of Tengu (mythical creatures), Oni (demons), and Okina (old men), parades through the parish area.
Setsubun Festival (February 3rd, various Goryo Shrines)
At Goryo Shrines, known for their protection against evil, the Setsubun Festival is also an important event. Bean-throwing ceremonies and special prayers are held.
Summary
Goryo Shrines are historically significant shrines born from Japan’s unique belief in vengeful spirits. Many worshippers visit seeking protection from evil and disaster. Each of the Goryo Shrines, such as the Kami-Goryo Shrine and Shimo-Goryo Shrine in Kyoto, and the Goryo Shrine in Kamakura, has its own unique characteristics and high historical value.
When visiting, show respect to those who met untimely deaths and pray quietly and sincerely. The shrines are easily accessible, making them a great place to visit in conjunction with sightseeing.
