Complete Guide to Shiramine Shrine | History, Deities, and Highlights of Kyoto’s Shrine Known as the Guardian Deity of Sports
Shiramine Shrine, located in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, is known as “Japan’s smallest shrine.” Founded by Emperor Meiji, this shrine enshrines two exiled emperors and also houses Seidai Myojin, the guardian deity of kemari (traditional Japanese football). Therefore, it is now widely revered as the guardian deity of all ball games, including soccer, and indeed all sports in general.
This article comprehensively covers everything you need to know before visiting Shiramine Shrine, from its historical background and the origins of its deities to its highlights, annual events, and access methods.
History and Origins of Shiramine Shrine
Founding Circumstances and Emperor Meiji’s Last Will
Shiramine Shrine was founded in 1868 (Meiji 1). Behind this lay the profound wishes of Emperor Komei. Emperor Komei’s desire to establish a shrine to appease the spirit of Emperor Sutoku, who was exiled to Sanuki Province (present-day Kagawa Prefecture) after the Hogen Rebellion and died there, was inherited by Emperor Meiji.
Emperor Meiji moved Emperor Sutoku’s spirit from Shiramine Mausoleum in Sanuki to Kyoto and established the shrine on the former site of the residence of the Asukai family, a noble family known for their mastery of kemari (traditional Japanese football) and waka poetry. This site is close to the Imperial Palace and has long been known as a place where clear spring water, called “Asukai no I” (Asukai Well), flows.
Enshrinement of Emperor Junnin and Promotion to Kanpei Taisha (Grand Imperial Shrine)
Five years after its founding, in 1873 (Meiji 6), the spirit of Emperor Junnin, who was exiled to Awaji Province (present-day Awaji Island, Hyogo Prefecture) for his involvement in the Fujiwara Nakamaro Rebellion and died there, was moved from the Awaji Mausoleum and enshrined together with the other deities.
Initially, the shrine was operated by Shinto officials who served daily, but under the new Meiji system, it received the status of a Kanpei Chusha (Middle Imperial Shrine). In 1940 (Showa 15), it was promoted to Kanpei Taisha (Grand Imperial Shrine) and granted the name “Shiramine Jingu.” After the war, it has remained a special shrine of the Association of Shinto Shrines to this day.
The Origin of the Asukai Family and Seidai Myojin
The grounds of Shiramine Jingu were originally the site of the Asukai family’s residence. The Asukai family served the imperial court for generations as the leading family in kemari (traditional Japanese football) and waka (Japanese poetry). They enshrined “Sei Daimyojin” as their guardian deity within their residence. Upon the founding of Shiramine Shrine, the worship of Sei Daimyojin was also taken over by the shrine, and it is now enshrined in the Jishu Shrine within the grounds.
About the Enshrined Deity
Emperor Sutoku
Emperor Sutoku reigned as the 75th emperor, but was defeated by Emperor Go-Shirakawa’s forces in the Hogen Rebellion (1156) and exiled to Sanuki Province. He devoted himself to waka poetry and sutra copying during his exile, and after 21 years of exile, he passed away in 1164.
The Ogura Hyakunin Isshu (One Hundred Poets, One Poem Each) includes a poem by the emperor: “Though the swift rapids are blocked by rocks, the waterfall splits, but I believe we will meet again in the end.” This demonstrates his exceptional talent as a poet. Due to his unfortunate fate of exile, appeasing his spirit has been a crucial task for the imperial court.
Emperor Junnin
Emperor Junnin reigned as the 47th emperor, but was implicated in the Fujiwara Nakamaro (Emi no Oshikatsu) Rebellion and exiled to Awaji Province. He died just a few years after his exile in 765.
Both emperors share the commonality of being caught up in political struggles and ending their lives in exile far from Kyoto. Shiramine Shrine was founded to appease and honor the spirits of these two emperors.
Seidai Myojin
Seidai Myojin is the deity worshipped by the Asukai family for generations as the guardian deity of Kemari (traditional Japanese ball game). Kemari is a traditional ball game that has continued since the Heian period, and the Asukai family was the head family that passed down its techniques and etiquette.
In modern times, because Kemari is considered the origin of ball games, it is widely worshipped as the guardian deity of all ball games, including soccer, and even sports in general. Official balls used by the Japan Football Association and various sports organizations have been dedicated to the shrine, and it is known that professional athletes also visit to pay their respects.
Highlights and Information on the Shrine Grounds
Worship Hall and Main Shrine
The worship hall of Shiramine Shrine is simple yet dignified in its construction. As it is called “Japan’s smallest shrine,” the grounds are relatively compact, but this allows for a calm atmosphere where each worshipper can quietly offer their prayers.
The main shrine enshrines Emperor Sutoku and Emperor Junnin. When visiting, it is important to show respect to the spirits of both emperors and pray with sincerity.
Jinushi Shrine (Sei Daimyojin)
The Jinushi Shrine, a subsidiary shrine within the grounds, enshrines Sei Daimyojin. This is the place that attracts the most worshippers as the guardian deity of sports, and many worshippers pray for improvement in sports and victory in matches.
Around the Jinushi Shrine, official sports balls such as soccer balls, volleyballs, and basketballs are dedicated, and the number continues to increase year by year. Just seeing these dedicated balls gives a sense of the deep faith in Sei Daimyojin.
Senryu Shrine
The Senryu Shrine is a subsidiary shrine within the grounds that enshrines Senryu Okami, the water god and dragon god. Dragon god worship has been seen throughout Japan since ancient times, and has been revered as a god that governs the blessings and purifying power of water. Within the grounds of Shiramine Shrine lies an ancient well called “Asukai-no-i,” and this spring water is associated with the worship of the dragon god.
Tomono-sha Shrine
Tomono-sha Shrine enshrines the warriors Minamoto no Tameyoshi and Minamoto no Tametomo. Minamoto no Tameyoshi was a warrior who fought on the side of Emperor Sutoku during the Hogen Rebellion, and his son, Minamoto no Tametomo, is known as a master archer. As a god of martial arts, it attracts worshippers from those involved in martial arts such as kendo and kyudo.
Ogatamanoki Tree
Within the shrine grounds grows an Ogatamanoki tree, said to be several hundred years old. The Ogatamanoki tree is considered sacred in Shinto, and its name is believed to be a corruption of “Okitama,” meaning “to invite spirits.”
This sacred tree has been designated a “tree of pride for the residents” of Kyoto City, and its presence, quietly watching over the history of Shiramine Shrine, attracts the attention of visitors.
Asukai Well
This old well, existing since the time of the Asukai family residence, was called “Asukai Well” because of the pure water that gushed forth from it. It remains on the shrine grounds today, a historically valuable relic and an oasis in the ancient capital of Kyoto.
Annual Events and Festivals
Shiramine Shrine holds various Shinto rituals and festivals throughout the year.
Spring Grand Festival
The Spring Grand Festival is one of the most important festivals at Shiramine Shrine. A solemn ceremony is held to honor Emperor Sutoku and Emperor Junnin and to praise their divine virtues.
Emperor Junnin Festival
This festival, held on the anniversary of Emperor Junnin’s death, is a Shinto ritual to comfort his spirit and commemorate his achievements.
Seidai Myojin Annual Festival and Kemari Dedication
At the Seidai Myojin annual festival, a traditional kemari (traditional Japanese football) dedication is performed. The Kemari Preservation Society showcases their magnificent kemari skills, attracting many worshippers and tourists. The sight of kemari players, dressed in Heian-period attire, kicking the ball with the unique calls of “Ari,” “Yaa,” and “Ou,” is truly like stepping back in time to the Heian period.
The kemari dedication is usually held in spring and summer, and as a dedication to the god of sports, it is a valuable opportunity to connect modern sports culture with traditional culture.
Other Annual Rituals
At Shiramine Shrine, various rituals are performed throughout the year, including the New Year’s Day Festival, the Setsubun Festival, and the Autumn Grand Festival. Each ritual has a deep meaning, allowing visitors to enjoy the different aspects of the shrine in each season.
Prayers and Amulets/Souvenirs
About Prayers
Shiramine Shrine accepts various types of prayers. Particularly popular are prayers for improvement in sports, prayers for victory, and prayers for improvement in martial arts. Professional athletes, sports teams, and martial artists often visit to receive prayers before matches or competitions, demonstrating the deep faith in the shrine as a guardian deity of sports.
In addition, general prayers such as family safety, business prosperity, academic success, and traffic safety are also accepted. Applications for prayers can be made at the shrine office.
Amulets and Souvenirs
Amulets related to sports are particularly popular at Shiramine Shrine. A variety of amulets are available, including those for improving ball game skills, ensuring victory, and general sports, allowing you to choose one that suits your specific sport or purpose.
Amulets and votive tablets featuring kemari (traditional Japanese ball game) motifs are also popular, and many visitors receive them as souvenirs of their visit. Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps) are also available; bringing your own goshuincho (stamp book) will allow you to receive a unique stamp specific to Shiramine Shrine.
Modern Faith as a Guardian Deity of Sports
Deep Connections with Soccer
Shiramine Shrine’s widespread recognition as a guardian deity of sports is closely linked to Japan’s soccer boom. Because kemari is the origin of ball games and shares many similarities with soccer, many soccer-related individuals, including members of the Japan Football Association, began visiting the shrine.
Before international tournaments such as the World Cup and the Olympics, Japanese national team players and supporters often visit to pray for victory, and numerous used official balls are dedicated on the shrine grounds.
Faith in All Ball Games and Sports
Currently, not only soccer players, but also those involved in all ball games such as baseball, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and golf visit the shrine. Furthermore, athletes from other sports such as track and field, swimming, and gymnastics also visit to pray for improvement in their athletic performance and success in competitions.
A distinctive feature of Shiramine Shrine is that it attracts faith from a wide range of people, including not only professional athletes, but also student athletes, sports enthusiasts, and even parents who wish for their children’s athletic improvement.
Faith in Martial Arts Improvement
Because Minamoto no Tameyoshi and Tametomo are enshrined in the Bansho Shrine, the shrine also enjoys strong faith from those involved in martial arts such as kendo, judo, kyudo, and karate. Many people visit the shrine before martial arts competitions or promotion exams.
Use for Shichi-Go-San and Various Prayers
Shiramine Shrine is used not only for sports-related prayers, but also for various prayers at important life milestones such as Shichi-Go-San, Hatsumiyamairi (first shrine visit for a newborn), and exorcism. Its approachable nature as “Japan’s smallest shrine,” its proximity to the Imperial Palace, and its high status all contribute to its popularity among locals.
Especially during the Shichi-Go-San festival, many families visit the shrine to pray for their children’s athletic success and healthy growth.
Access and Visiting Information
Location
261 Asukai-cho, Horikawa-higashi-iru, Imadegawa-dori, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 602-0054
Transportation Access
Access by Train
- Approximately 8 minutes on foot from Imadegawa Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Demachiyanagi Station on the Keihan Railway
Access by Bus
- Approximately 1 minute on foot from the Horikawa Imadegawa bus stop on the Kyoto City Bus
Access by Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from Kyoto Minami IC on the Meishin Expressway
- There are a few parking spaces on the temple grounds, but the number is limited, so the use of public transportation is recommended.
Visiting Hours and Shrine Office Hours
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (gates are always open)
- Shrine Office Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (for prayers, amulet distribution, etc.)
- Phone: 075-441-3810
Admission Fee
Admission is free. Anyone can freely visit.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Shiramine Shrine is located northwest of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and there are many tourist attractions in the surrounding area.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
The Kyoto Imperial Palace, located about a 10-minute walk from Shiramine Shrine, was formerly the residence of the Emperor and is now open to the public. Historical buildings are scattered throughout the vast grounds, making it a classic Kyoto tourist spot.
Seimei Shrine
Seimei Shrine, dedicated to the Onmyoji (exorcist) Abe no Seimei, is also within walking distance. It is a popular power spot, and many people visit it in conjunction with Shiramine Shrine.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, is also relatively close, about a 20-minute walk away. It is also known as a famous spot for plum blossoms, and you can enjoy beautiful plum blossoms depending on the season.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
When visiting Shiramine Shrine, please observe the following basic manners for visiting a shrine:
- When passing through the torii gate: Bow before entering the shrine grounds.
- Procedure at the purification fountain: Cleanse your left hand, then your right hand, rinse your mouth, and finally cleanse your left hand.
- Procedure for worship: Two bows, two claps, and one bow is the basic form.
- Behavior within the shrine grounds: Worship quietly and be considerate of other worshippers.
- Photography: Refrain from taking photographs in areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main hall.
Even when visiting as a patron deity of sports, it is considered best to first pay respects to the enshrined deities, Emperor Sutoku and Emperor Junnin, and then worship at Seidai Myojin.
The Charm and Significance of Visiting Shiramine Shrine
Shiramine Shrine is a shrine where historical significance and modern faith are beautifully blended. Its founding, dedicated to two emperors who met unfortunate fates in exile, speaks to the complexity of Japanese history and the Japanese spirit of comforting the spirits of the deceased.
At the same time, Shiramine Shrine’s appeal lies in its connection with modern sports culture, while inheriting the traditional culture of kemari (traditional Japanese football), and attracting new devotion as a “guardian deity of sports.” As a space where tradition and innovation, history and modernity coexist, Shiramine Shrine continues to be loved by many.
Near the Kyoto Imperial Palace, in a tranquil setting, and watched over by centuries-old Kogatama trees, Shiramine Shrine offers a peaceful place for worship. It is a shrine worth visiting not only for those involved in sports, but also for those who want to experience Kyoto’s history and those seeking a quiet time of prayer.
Despite its compact size, earning it the title of “Japan’s smallest shrine,” Shiramine Shrine possesses immeasurable historical and cultural value. We highly recommend visiting it at least once to experience its charm for yourself.
