Complete Guide to Kurumazaki Shrine | A Thorough Explanation of Benefits for Performing Arts and Financial Luck, Access, and Amulet Information
Located in the Arashiyama area of Kyoto, Kurumazaki Shrine is a venerable shrine known for its blessings for improving performing arts skills and increasing financial luck. Within its grounds is a shrine dedicated to performing arts, famous for being visited by many celebrities and artists, and the stone fence surrounding the grounds is lined with the names of many famous people.
This article thoroughly explains everything you need to know before visiting Kurumazaki Shrine, including its history, blessings, how to worship, access information, amulets, and goshuin (shrine stamps). Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat visitor, this article will allow you to fully appreciate the charm of Kurumazaki Shrine.
What is Kurumazaki Shrine? History and Origins
History of its Founding
Kurumazaki Shrine is said to have been founded in 1189 (Bunji 5) during the late Heian period. The enshrined deity is Kiyohara no Yorinari, a renowned Confucian and Chinese scholar of the late Heian period. Yorinari held the position of Daigeki (Chief Secretary) and was known for his profound knowledge and sincere character.
After Yorinari’s death, a mausoleum was built on this site, and later it became a shrine, marking the beginning of Kurumazaki Shrine.
Origin of the Name “Kurumazaki”
The name “Kurumazaki” has an interesting origin. During the Kamakura period, when Emperor Go-Saga visited Arashiyama, the shaft of his ox-drawn carriage broke in front of this shrine. The Emperor bestowed the shrine the name “Kurumazaki” (車前), which is said to have later evolved into “Kurumazaki” (車折).
Because of this anecdote, Kurumazaki Shrine is also believed to offer blessings for traffic safety.
God of Learning and Promises
Because Lord Kiyohara Yorinori was a man of great academic achievement, Kurumazaki Shrine has long been believed to grant blessings for academic advancement. Furthermore, because Lord Yorinori was a sincere person who highly valued promises, he is also revered as the “God of Keeping Promises” and the “God of Fulfilling Contracts.”
Many visitors come to pray for the fulfillment of business contracts and promises in personal relationships.
Blessings of Kurumazaki Shrine
Improvement in Performing Arts and Luck in the Performing Arts
Kurumazaki Shrine is most famous for its subsidiary shrine, Geino Shrine (Shrine of Performing Arts). Geino Shrine enshrines Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto, known in Japanese mythology as the goddess of performing arts who performed a sacred dance during the Iwato-gakure (hiding in the cave).
Many people involved in performing arts, including actors, singers, musicians, entertainers, comedians, and traditional performers, visit the shrine. Thousands of votive offerings stand within the shrine grounds, and many of them bear the names of well-known celebrities. ### Financial Fortune & Business Prosperity
Due to the sincerity and commitment of Lord Kiyohara Yorinori, Kurumazaki Shrine is known for its blessings of financial fortune and business prosperity. Many business owners and sales professionals visit the shrine, particularly praying for successful contracts and transactions.
Many general visitors also pray for increased financial fortune, and the custom of carrying the “Prayer Stone” (described below) in one’s wallet is widespread.
Academic Success & Exam Passing
Because the enshrined deity, Lord Kiyohara Yorinori, was an excellent scholar, the shrine also offers blessings for academic success and exam passing. Students and those taking qualification exams visit to pray for success.
Good Matchmaking & Romantic Success
Within the shrine grounds is also the “Benten Shrine,” dedicated to Ichikishima-hime no Mikoto. Benten, the goddess of beauty and performing arts, is believed to grant blessings for good matchmaking and romantic success, and many young women visit the shrine.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall
The main hall of Kurumazaki Shrine is a sacred place dedicated to Lord Kiyohara Yorinori. When visiting, be sure to pay your respects at the main hall first. In front of the main hall is a magnificent worship hall, creating a solemn atmosphere.
Performing Arts Shrine
Located in the back right of the shrine grounds, the Performing Arts Shrine is a particularly popular spot within Kurumazaki Shrine. Passing through the vermilion torii gate, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking sight of thousands of stone fences.
These fences bear the names of famous people from all genres, including entertainers, actors, singers, musicians, comedians, and idol groups. The list is vast, including talents from Johnny & Associates, members of the Takarazuka Revue, popular idol groups, enka singers, and actors.
Even just looking at the fences is enjoyable, and you’ll discover, “This person has also visited!” Photography is permitted, and many visitors take commemorative photos.
Prayer Stone (Kinen Shinseki)
The most distinctive item bestowed at Kurumazaki Shrine is the “Prayer Stone (Kinen Shinseki).” This is a stone from the shrine grounds that has been purified and blessed, and you can take it home with your wish in mind.
How to receive and use a Prayer Stone:
- Receive a Prayer Stone at the shrine office (offering fee: approximately 700 yen)
- Receive a purification ritual at the “Purification Shrine” in front of the main hall
- Pray for your wish while looking at the stone
- Carry it with you at all times (in your wallet or pouch)
- Once your wish is granted, return a stone you have picked up from a nearby river or the sea, along with the Prayer Stone, to the shrine with gratitude.
This Prayer Stone is based on the ancient belief that “wishes are granted through the power of stones,” and is practiced by many worshippers.
Kiyome no Yashiro (Shrine of Purification)
Located in front of the main shrine, the “Kiyome no Yashiro” is considered a place to ward off bad luck and misfortune. There is a cone-shaped mound of sand; the proper way to worship is to purify your mind and body in front of it before visiting the main shrine.
Benten Shrine
Located by the pond within the shrine grounds, the Benten Shrine is a beautiful shrine dedicated to Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto. She is worshipped as the goddess of water, performing arts, and wealth, and is particularly popular among women.
Jishu Shrine
Within the shrine grounds is also a shrine dedicated to the Jishu deity, who has been worshipped since ancient times as the guardian deity of the land.
How to Worship and Manners
Basic Worship Procedure
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: Show respect for entering the sacred area.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Hold the ladle in your right hand, purify your left hand, switch to your left hand and purify your right hand, switch back to your right hand, receive water in your left hand, rinse your mouth, and finally purify the handle of the ladle.
- Purify your mind and body at the purification shrine: Calm your mind in front of the sand mounds and ward off bad luck.
- Worship at the main shrine: Worship using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- Worship at the Geino Shrine: Worship similarly using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- Worship at other shrines within the grounds: Visit shrines that interest you, such as the Benten Shrine.
- Receive a prayer stone: Receive it at the shrine office and make a wish.
Attire for Visiting the Shrine
While there are no strict dress code regulations, it is desirable to dress appropriately for a sacred place. Avoid overly revealing or sloppy attire.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds. You can photograph the stone fence of the Geino Shrine, but please be considerate of other visitors. Please refrain from taking photos in areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main hall.
Amulet and Goshuin Information
Popular Amulets
Kurumazaki Shrine offers various types of amulets:
Performing Arts Improvement Amulet: A representative amulet of the Geino Shrine. Popular with those working in the performing arts or those wishing to improve their skills in their hobbies.
Financial Luck Amulet: An amulet for improving financial luck and business prosperity. Often features yellow or gold designs.
Academic Success Amulet: A popular amulet among students and those taking exams.
Good Relationship Amulet: An amulet for finding a good partner and achieving romantic success.
Traffic Safety Amulet: An amulet related to the origin of the name Kurumazaki.
Prayer Stone: As mentioned above, this is the most distinctive item offered.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
At Kurumazaki Shrine, you can receive goshuin from both the main shrine and the Geino Shrine. The offering fee is approximately 300 yen each.
Goshuin notebooks are also sold, including original designs from Kurumazaki Shrine. The Geino Shrine goshuin is particularly popular and has many collectors.
Pre-printed goshuin are also available, so you can rest assured even during busy times or when you are in a hurry.
Office Hours
The office and gift shop are usually open from 9:00 to 17:00. Hours may change during the New Year holidays or special events, so it is recommended to check in advance.
Access Information
Access by Train
Get off at Kurumazaki Shrine Station on the Keifuku Electric Railway (Randen) Arashiyama Line
This is the most convenient way to access the shrine. The station name is “Kurumazaki Shrine Station,” and the shrine is right in front of you when you get off the train. It takes less than a minute to walk there.
- From Arashiyama Station: Approximately 5 minutes by Randen train
- From Shijo-Omiya Station: Approximately 20 minutes by Randen train
From JR Sagano Line “Saga-Arashiyama Station”
Approximately 15 minutes on foot. Convenient if visiting in conjunction with Arashiyama sightseeing.
From Hankyu Arashiyama Line “Arashiyama Station”
Approximately 20 minutes on foot, or transfer to the Randen train and go to “Kurumazaki Shrine Station.”
Access by Bus
Get off at the “Kurumazaki Shrine-mae” bus stop on a Kyoto City Bus or Kyoto Bus, and it’s a short walk from there.
Main Routes:
- City Bus Route 11
- City Bus Route 93
- Kyoto Bus Routes 61, 62, 63, 71, 72, 73, etc.
If traveling from Kyoto Station by bus, you can also take City Bus Route 28 and get off at “Kurumazaki Shrine,” but this will take approximately 40-50 minutes.
Access by Car and Parking
It is possible to visit the shrine by car. There is a free parking lot for visitors at the shrine (approximately 20 spaces). However, it can get crowded on holidays and during the New Year’s period, so using public transportation is recommended.
Address: 23 Saga Asahi-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 616-8343
When searching with a car navigation system, please enter “Kurumazaki Shrine” or the address above.
Combining with Nearby Tourist Attractions
Since Kurumazaki Shrine is located in the Arashiyama area, it is recommended to visit it in combination with the following tourist attractions:
- Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge: Approximately 5 minutes by Randen train
- Tenryu-ji Temple: Approximately 5 minutes by Randen train
- Bamboo Grove Path: Approximately 5 minutes by Randen train
- Nonomiya Shrine: Approximately 7 minutes by Randen train
- Daikaku-ji Temple: Approximately 15 minutes on foot
Many tourists visit Kurumazaki Shrine as part of their Arashiyama sightseeing, allowing them to visit multiple spots in one day.
Annual Events and Festivals
Mifune Festival (Third Sunday of May)
The most important festival at Kurumazaki Shrine is the “Mifune Festival.” Held on the anniversary of the death of Kiyohara Yorinori, this elegant event features the dedication of Gagaku (ancient Japanese court music) and Bugaku (court dance) on the Oi River (Katsura River). It recreates the boat excursions of the Heian period and is a symbol of early summer in Kyoto.
Annual Festival (May 23rd)
The annual festival, held on the anniversary of the death of Lord Kiyohara Yorinori, is the most important festival for the shrine.
New Year’s Visit
The shrine is bustling with many visitors during the New Year’s visit period (January 1st to 3rd). Many people, especially those in the entertainment industry, visit to pray for success in the new year, and the shrine remains busy from late night to early morning.
Other Events
- Setsubun Festival (February 3rd): Bean-throwing and other events are held.
- Tanabata Festival (July 7th): Visitors can write their wishes on strips of paper and offer them.
- Autumn Grand Festival (October): A festival to give thanks for the harvest.
Trivia and Facts about Kurumazaki Shrine
Number of Celebrity Names on Tamagaki (Shrine Walls)
The number of tamagaki (shrine walls) dedicated to the shrine is constantly increasing, and the total number is said to be over 2000. New tamagaki are added every year, and you can see the names of a wide range of celebrities, from newcomers to veterans.
A Holy Site for Johnny’s
This shrine is also known as a “Holy Site for Johnny’s” due to the particularly large number of votive plaques left by Johnny’s Entertainment talents. There are also plaques from junior groups before their debut, making it a fun activity for fans to search for their favorite idol’s plaque.
A Thank-You Visit After Your Wish Comes True
After receiving a prayer stone and having your wish granted, it’s important to offer a thank-you visit. You return a stone picked up from a nearby river or the sea, along with your prayer stone, to the shrine with gratitude. The shrine grounds are piled high with returned stones, a testament to the many wishes that have been granted.
Evaluation as a Power Spot
From a spiritual perspective, Kurumazaki Shrine is considered a powerful power spot. The energy of the performing arts shrine, in particular, is said to be high, with many people reporting that their luck mysteriously improves after visiting.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting the Shrine
Crowded Periods
The following periods are particularly crowded:
- New Year’s visit period (January 1st to 3rd)
- Mifune Festival (Third Sunday of May)
- Weekends and public holidays, from morning to early afternoon
- Cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons (due to Arashiyama tourists visiting)
If you want to avoid crowds, visiting on weekday afternoons or early mornings is recommended.
Searching for Tamagaki (Sacred Walls) at Geino Shrine
Looking at the tamagaki is fun, but please be careful not to disturb other visitors. Please be considerate and avoid blocking pathways or speaking loudly.
Handling of the Prayer Stone
The prayer stone is sacred, so please handle it with care. It is important to carry it with you at all times in your wallet or pouch and not treat it carelessly.
Eating and Drinking on the Shrine Grounds
Eating and drinking are generally prohibited on the shrine grounds. Drinking water is acceptable, but please avoid eating while walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a visit take?
A typical visit takes about 30 minutes to an hour. If you take your time to carefully examine the stone fence at the Geino Shrine or take photos, it may take more than an hour.
How many types of Goshuin (shrine stamps) are there?
There are basically two types: the main shrine’s Goshuin and the Geino Shrine’s Goshuin. Seasonal limited-edition Goshuin may also be available.
Is it possible to visit with a pet?
It may be possible to visit with small dogs in a carrier bag, but it is recommended to check in advance. It is best to avoid letting your pet walk on a leash, as this may disturb other visitors.
How is Kurumazaki Shrine written in English?
It is written as “Kurumazaki Shrine” or “Kurumazaki Jinja”.
Can I visit on a rainy day?
You can visit even in rainy weather. However, since the grounds have gravel paths and cobblestones, it is recommended to wear non-slip shoes.
Summary: The Charm of Kurumazaki Shrine
Kurumazaki Shrine is a unique shrine that, while possessing a rich history and tradition, is deeply connected to modern performing arts culture, offering a variety of blessings including improvement in performing arts, increased financial fortune, and academic success.
The tamagaki (stone fence) of the performing arts shrine is particularly impressive, reflecting its role as a shrine supporting the Japanese performing arts world. The unique offering of the Kinen Shinseki (prayer stone) is also a distinctive feature not found at other shrines.
When sightseeing in Kyoto’s Arashiyama area, be sure to visit Kurumazaki Shrine. It’s a special place where you can feel the sincere spirit of Lord Kiyohara Yorinori and the blessings of the god of performing arts.
Its convenient location, just a short walk from the Randen “Kurumazaki Shrine Station,” is another attractive feature. Visiting it along with the Arashiyama bamboo forest and Togetsukyo Bridge will make for a fulfilling Kyoto sightseeing experience.
Please pray with a heartfelt wish for your wishes to come true. And once your wish is granted, don’t forget to offer your thanks. We hope that Kurumazaki Shrine will be a catalyst for positive change in your life.
