About Maroudo Shrine
Maroudo Shrine (客神社) is a historic shrine located in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City. It is also written as “客人神社” (Kyakujin Shrine) and is affectionately known as “Maroudo-san” by locals.
Deities and History
Main Deity
The main deity of Maroudo Shrine is Isotakeru-no-Mikoto. He is a child of Susanoo-no-Mikoto and is known as the god who presides over trees.
History of Founding
It is said to have been founded in the early Heian period, giving it a history of approximately 1200 years. Originally, it was named “Kyakujin Shrine” (客神社) because it was worshipped as a god protecting travelers and guests. In the Middle Ages, it was also considered important as a protector against evil spirits from the northeast of the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Benefits of Maroudo Shrine
Main Benefits
The following benefits are said to be bestowed at Maroudo Shrine.
- Matchmaking and Fulfillment of Good Relationships: Forging good relationships with people
- Protection from Evil and Directional Misfortune: Warding off disasters and preventing the influence of bad directions
- Safe Travel: Protecting safe journeys
- Business Prosperity: Attracting customers
- Family Safety: Protecting the peace and security of the family
Particularly Popular Benefits
Kyakujinja Shrine is especially known for its matchmaking benefits. Because the character “客” (kyaku) means “to welcome people,” it is believed to attract good relationships, and many visitors come to pray for success in love and marriage. It is also recommended for those wishing for new encounters or improved relationships.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall
The main hall, which retains the architectural style of the mid-Edo period, is small but has a dignified presence. The carvings are beautiful, so be sure to take a look when you visit.
Sacred Tree
There is a sacred camphor tree on the shrine grounds that is over 300 years old. Because Isotakeru-no-Mikoto is the god of trees, this sacred tree is believed to possess special spiritual power, and many worshippers touch the tree and offer prayers.
The Stone of Matchmaking
The “Stone of Matchmaking,” located in a corner of the temple grounds, is a popular spot for those wishing for good fortune in love. It is said that wishes made while touching this stone will come true.
Points to Note When Visiting a Shrine
Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: Prepare your mind before entering the shrine grounds.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Purify in the following order: left hand → right hand → mouth → handle of left hand.
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once at the main shrine: This is the standard way to visit a shrine.
- Touch the sacred tree: Touch it gently while making a wish.
- Pray at the matchmaking stone: Don’t forget if you are praying for a good match.
Recommended Times to Visit
- Early morning (7:00-9:00): You can visit in a quiet and refreshing atmosphere.
- Weekday mornings: Ideal for those who want to avoid crowds and visit at a leisurely pace.
- Evening: Enjoy the magical atmosphere of the shrine grounds illuminated by the setting sun.
Annual Events
- New Year’s Visit (January 1st-3rd): Many worshippers visit to pray for the New Year.
- Setsubun Festival (February 3rd): A special festival for warding off evil.
- Annual Grand Festival (Mid-October): Traditional events such as the portable shrine procession are held.
Items Offered and Amulets
Popular Amulets
- Matchmaking Amulet: Cute pink and white design (800 yen)
- Evil-Warding Amulet: Calm navy blue color (700 yen)
- Safe Travel Amulet: Compact and easy to carry (600 yen)
Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
In addition to regular goshuin, the shrine also offers seasonal special goshuin. The offering fee is 300 yen. Goshuin notebooks are also sold, with original designs costing 1,500 yen.
Access Information
Location
602-8155 Kanze-cho, Omiya-dori Imadegawa-agaru, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Access by Train
- 15-minute walk from Imadegawa Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line
- 12-minute walk from Kuramaguchi Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line
Access by Bus
- 3-minute walk from Omiya Imadegawa bus stop (Kyoto City Bus)
- 5-minute walk from Imadegawa Omiya bus stop (Kyoto City Bus)
Major routes: Routes 9, 12, 67, etc.
Access by Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from Kyoto Minami IC on the Meishin Expressway
- Approximately 25 minutes from Kamitoba Exit on the Hanshin Expressway
Parking: Free parking available for visitors on the temple grounds (approximately 5 cars). If the parking lot is full, please use nearby coin-operated parking lots.
By Taxi
- Approximately 15 minutes from JR Kyoto Station, estimated fare 1,500-2,000 yen
- Approximately 10 minutes from Keihan Demachiyanagi Station, estimated fare 1,000-1,500 yen
Notes for Visiting the Shrine
- Visiting Hours: The shrine grounds are open 24 hours, but the shrine office is open from 9:00 to 17:00.
- Dress Code: There are no specific regulations, but please dress appropriately as it is a sacred place.
- Photography: Photography is permitted on the shrine grounds, but photography is prohibited inside the main hall.
- Pets Allowed: Small dogs are allowed if carried, but please keep them quiet on the shrine grounds.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
The following tourist attractions are located near Kyakujinja Shrine.
- Kyoto Imperial Palace: 15-minute walk, a historical building associated with the Imperial family
- Shokokuji Temple: 10-minute walk, the head temple of the Shokokuji branch of the Rinzai school of Zen Buddhism
- Seimei Shrine: 20-minute walk, a shrine dedicated to Abe no Seimei, the Onmyoji (exorcist/diviner)
- Kitano Tenmangu Shrine: 15-minute bus ride, famous as the god of learning
Summary
Kyakujinja Shrine is a hidden power spot in Kyoto known for its blessings of matchmaking and protection from evil. Its charm lies in its quiet atmosphere, untouched by tourist scrutiny, allowing for a peaceful visit. Be sure to visit when sightseeing in Kyoto. It is especially recommended for those seeking good fortune in love or those at a turning point in their lives.
