Kamo Mioya Shrine (Shimogamo Shrine) Complete Guide: A Thorough Explanation of the History, Deities, Grounds, and Cultural Properties of this World Heritage Site
What is Kamo Mioya Shrine (Shimogamo Shrine)?
Kamo Mioya Shrine, located in Shimogamo Izumikawa-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, is one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines. It is commonly known as “Shimogamo Shrine,” a name derived from its location downstream of the Kamo River.
The official name, “Kamo Mioya Shrine,” derives from its status as a “Mioya” (ancestor) shrine, dedicated to the mother and grandfather of Kamo Wakeikazuchi no Mikoto, the deity of Kamigamo Shrine (Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine).
Value as a World Heritage Site
In December 1994, Kamo Mioya Shrine was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.” With a history dating back to before the relocation of the capital to Heian-kyo, this shrine has played a crucial role in the urban development of Kyoto, and its universal value is recognized.
Status and Rank
Kamo Mioya Shrine boasts the highest rank among Japanese shrines:
- Shikinaisha (Myojin Taisha): A historically significant shrine listed in the Engishiki Jinmyocho (a list of shrines compiled in the Heian period).
- Yamashiro no Kuni Ichinomiya: The highest-ranking shrine in Yamashiro Province (present-day southern Kyoto Prefecture).
- Twenty-Two Shrines (Upper Seven Shrines): One of the highest-ranking Upper Seven Shrines among the twenty-two shrines particularly revered by the Imperial Court.
- Former Kanpei Taisha: The highest-ranking Kanpei Taisha under the modern shrine ranking system of the Meiji era.
- Jinja Honcho Beppyo Jinja: An important shrine designated by the current Jinja Honcho (Association of Shinto Shrines).
These ranks demonstrate that Kamo Mioya Shrine has played a central role in Japanese religion and culture from ancient times to the present day.
Deities and Mythology
Deities Enshrined
Kamo Mioya Shrine enshrines two deities.
West Main Hall: Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto
Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto is considered the ancestral deity of the Kamo clan. Legend says that during Emperor Jimmu’s eastern expedition, he transformed into a Yatagarasu (three-legged crow) and guided the emperor. He is revered as the pioneering deity of Yamashiro Province, a god of guidance, and a god of protection against misfortune.
According to shrine tradition, he descended to Mount Mikageyama at the western foot of Mount Hiei during the reign of Emperor Jimmu, and later moved to his current location.
East Main Hall: Tamayorihime no Mikoto
Tamayorihime no Mikoto is the daughter of Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto and the mother of Kamo Wakeikazuchi no Mikoto. According to legend, one day, while performing a purification ritual in the Kamo River, she picked up a vermilion-painted arrow that floated down from upstream. She placed it on her bed, became pregnant, and gave birth to Kamo Wakeikazuchi no Mikoto.
She is revered as a goddess of matchmaking, safe childbirth, child-rearing, and beauty, and is particularly worshipped by women.
The Relationship Between the Kamo Clan and the Shrines
Kamo Mioya Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine (Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine) are shrines worshipped by the Kamo clan, a powerful ancient clan. The Kamo clan contributed to the development of Yamashiro Province, and after the relocation of the capital to Heian-kyo, they played an important role in overseeing the imperial court’s rituals.
The two shrines were revered together as “Kamo Shrine” and jointly performed the Aoi Matsuri (Kamo Matsuri), an important imperial court ritual.
History
Founding and Ancient Times
The exact founding date of Kamo Mioya Shrine is unclear, but according to shrine tradition, Kamo Taketsunomi no Mikoto descended to Mount Mikage during the reign of Emperor Jimmu, and the shrine’s sacred fence was constructed in the 7th year of Emperor Sujin’s reign (around 90 BC).
Jomon period ruins have also been discovered within the shrine grounds, archaeologically confirming that this area has long been a place of human habitation and an object of worship.
Prosperity in the Heian Period
With the relocation of the capital to Heian-kyo in 794 (Enryaku 13), Kamo Mioya Shrine, along with Kamigamo Shrine, was positioned as a shrine for the protection of the nation and received deep reverence from the imperial court.
In 810 (Daido 5), the system of Saio (Kamo Saiin) was established by imperial decree of Emperor Saga. This was a system in which an imperial princess or queen served at the Kamo Shrine as a Saio (high priestess), a position second only to the Saigu (high priestess) of Ise Grand Shrine in importance. The Kamo Saiin system lasted for approximately 400 years, with 35 Saio serving in that role.
In the early 11th century, the shrine’s layout, similar to its current form, was established, and the Shikinen Sengu (periodic rebuilding of the shrine) system was also established. Shikinen Sengu was a system of rebuilding the shrine buildings every certain number of years, aimed at preserving architectural techniques and maintaining the shrine’s purity.
Medieval and Early Modern Periods
From the late Heian period to the Kamakura period, the authority of the imperial court relatively declined with the rise of the samurai government, but Kamo Mioya Shrine continued to receive reverence from the samurai class.
During the Ōnin War (1467-1477), Kyoto became a battlefield, and the shrine suffered damage, but it was later rebuilt. During the Edo period, it received the patronage of the Tokugawa shogunate, and the shrine buildings were repaired.
Modern Era
Due to the Meiji-era decree separating Shinto and Buddhism, Shinto shrines and Buddhist facilities were separated. Under the modern shrine ranking system, it was designated a Kanpei Taisha (Grand Imperial Shrine), positioning it as an important national shrine.
After World War II, it became a Beppyo Jinja (Special Shrine) of the Association of Shinto Shrines, a status it maintains to this day. Its designation as a World Heritage Site in 1994 recognized its international value, attracting many worshippers from both within Japan and internationally.
Shrine Grounds
The grounds of Kamo Mioya Shrine cover approximately 124,000 square meters, with the majority of this being the Tadasu no Mori forest.
Tadasu no Mori Forest
Tadasu no Mori is the sacred forest of Kamo Mioya Shrine, a primeval forest covering approximately 36,000 tsubo (approximately 120,000 square meters). Approximately 600 species of plants, primarily deciduous broad-leaved trees such as zelkova, hackberry, and Chinese zelkova, grow naturally in this forest, preserving the appearance of an ancient forest despite its urban location.
The forest’s name, “Tadasu,” means “to correct falsehoods,” and it has long been considered a sacred place. It is designated a national historical site and is a popular place of relaxation for Kyoto residents.
Four streams—the Semi-no-Ogawa, Nara-no-Ogawa, Izumi-gawa, and Mitarai-gawa—flow through the forest, their soothing sounds providing solace to visitors.
Approach and Gate
Emerging from the Tadasu no Mori forest, a vibrant vermilion gate appears. The gate is designated an Important Cultural Property, and its imposing presence welcomes visitors.
Passing through the gate, a spacious grounds unfold, with the dance hall (Maidono) in the front, and the middle gate and main hall (Honden) located behind it.
Maiden (Bridge Hall)
The Maiden is the place where the Imperial envoy reads the ceremonial address during the Aoi Festival, and where Kagura and Bugaku (sacred dances and music) are performed. Also known as the Bridge Hall, it was formerly built on a bridge over the Mitarai River. The current building is designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Main Hall
The Main Hall consists of two buildings, the East Main Hall and the West Main Hall, both designated as National Treasures. The current Main Hall was rebuilt in 1863 and is constructed in the Sangensha Nagare-zukuri style.
The cypress bark roof and vermilion-painted pillars are beautiful, preserving a typical style of shrine architecture. The Main Hall is usually closed to the public, but special visits allow access to the Middle Gate for worship.
Mitarashi Shrine and Mitarashi River
In the southwestern part of the shrine grounds is the Mitarashi Shrine, with the Mitarashi River flowing in front of it. It is said that the bubbles rising from the riverbed are the origin of the name of Mitarashi dango (rice dumplings with sweet soy sauce glaze).
During the Mitarashi Festival, held on the Day of the Ox in summer, many worshippers dip their feet in the Mitarashi River to pray for good health and protection from illness.
Aioi Shrine
The Aioi Shrine, known as the god of matchmaking, is one of the most popular spots on the shrine grounds. It enshrines Kamimusubi-no-kami and is believed to bring blessings for good relationships, marital harmony, and safe childbirth.
In front of the Aioi Shrine is the Renri-no-Sakaki, a sacred tree where two trees are intertwined, a symbol of matchmaking.
Kawai Shrine
Located near the entrance to Tadasu no Mori forest, Kawai Shrine is a subsidiary shrine of Kamo Mioya Shrine and enshrines Tamayorihime-no-Mikoto. It is worshipped as the goddess of beauty and is particularly popular among women.
It has a unique custom of offering kagami ema (mirror-shaped votive tablets) decorated with one’s own cosmetics, and is known as a power spot for beauty prayers.
Subsidiary Shrines
Besides the main shrine, Kamo Mioya Shrine has numerous subsidiary shrines scattered throughout its grounds.
Main Subsidiary Shrines
- Kawai Shrine: Enshrines Tamayorihime-no-Mikoto. Worshipped as the goddess of beauty.
- Aioi Shrine: Enshrines Kamimusubi-no-Kami. God of matchmaking.
- Mitarai Shrine: Enshrines Seoritsuhime-no-Mikoto. God of water and purification of sins and defilements.
- Inoue Shrine: Enshrines Seoritsuhime-no-Mikoto. Water God
- Mitsui Shrine: Dedicates the fierce spirit of Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto
- Izumoi Shrine: Dedicates Takehaya Susanoo no Mikoto
Main Subsidiary Shrines
- Hiragi Shrine: Dedicates Takehaya Susanoo no Mikoto
- In Shrine: Dedicates Kotoshironushi no Kami
- Kosha: Also known as Komori Shrine. Dedicates Ōkuninushi no Kami
- Kifune Shrine: Dedicates Takaokami no Kami. Water God
- Inari Shrine: Dedicates Ukanomitama no Kami. God of Abundant Harvests
These subsidiary shrines each offer different blessings, and worshippers can visit them according to their purpose.
Main Festivals and Events
Kamo Mioya Shrine holds various festivals and events throughout the year.
Aoi Festival (Kamo Festival)
Held annually on May 15th, the Aoi Festival is the annual festival of the Kamo Mioya Shrine and the Kamigamo Shrine, and one of Kyoto’s three major festivals. Formally known as the “Kamo Festival,” it was so important during the Heian period that the term “festival” simply referred to the Aoi Festival.
The festival’s name originates from the fact that participants wear hollyhock leaves. The “Roto no Gi” procession, featuring approximately 500 people in imperial court attire parading from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to the Shimogamo Shrine and then to the Kamigamo Shrine, is known as a magnificent event that conveys the Heian period’s imperial court culture.
Yabusame Shinto Ritual
Held on May 3rd, the Yabusame Shinto ritual takes place as a preliminary ceremony to the Aoi Festival. It is a magnificent ritual in which archers shoot at targets from horseback while galloping through the Tadasu no Mori forest.
Mitarashi Festival
Held primarily on the Day of the Ox during the summer, the Mitarashi Festival is a summer tradition where people dip their feet in the Mitarashi River to pray for good health and protection from illness. At night, candlelight illuminates the river’s surface, creating a magical atmosphere.
First Kemari Game of the Year
Held on January 4th, the First Kemari Game of the Year is a ceremony in which kemari, a traditional ball game passed down since the Heian period, is offered as a dedication. Members of the Kemari Preservation Society, dressed in colorful costumes, demonstrate kemari with elegant movements.
Other Major Events
- Hatsumode (January 1st-3rd): New Year’s visit to the shrine
- Setsubun Festival (Setsubun Day in February): Bean-throwing ritual
- Hina Nagashi (March 3rd): Dolls are floated down the river on the Peach Festival to ward off evil spirits
- Natsukoshi Shinto Ritual (June 30th): Purification of sins and impurities accumulated over the past six months by passing through a ring of reeds
- Meigetsu Kangensai (Mid-Autumn Moon Festival): Musical performances are offered while admiring the moon
These festivals and events continue to be passed down to the present day, preserving traditions that have continued since ancient times.
Cultural Properties
Kamo Mioya Shrine preserves numerous valuable cultural properties, including national treasures and important cultural properties.
National Treasure
East Main Hall and West Main Hall: These two main halls, built in 1863 (Bunkyu 3), are designated as National Treasures. They exhibit a typical shrine architectural style: a three-bay nagare-zukuri style with cypress bark roofing.
Important Cultural Property (Buildings)
There are 53 important cultural property buildings within the grounds of Kamo Mioya Shrine. The main structures are as follows:
- Romon Gate: A two-story gate with a hipped roof and cypress bark roofing.
- Maiden (Bridge Hall): A hipped roof with cypress bark roofing.
- Yokogaki Chumon Gate: Two gates, east and west.
- Shinfukuden Hall: Two gates, east and west.
- Oidono Hall: A building where sacred offerings are prepared.
- Kugosho Hall: A building where sacred offerings are presented.
- Naoraiden Hall: A building where the post-ritual feast is held.
These structures were built from the Edo period to the Meiji period and are valuable cultural assets that preserve the style of shrine architecture to this day.
Other Cultural Properties
- Tadasu no Mori: Designated as a National Historic Site
- Ancient Documents: Numerous documents from the Heian to Edo periods are preserved here
- Sacred Treasures: Sacred treasures used in rituals are preserved here
Shikinen Sengu and Cultural Property Protection
At Kamo Mioya Shrine, the Shikinen Sengu (periodic rebuilding of the shrine) was formerly performed every 21 years, during which the shrine buildings were rebuilt. This system ensured the transmission of architectural techniques through generations and maintained the purity of the buildings.
Currently, from the perspective of cultural property protection, the policy is to preserve the buildings through repair rather than rebuilding, but the tradition of Shikinen Sengu continues in a modified form.
Access and Visiting Information
Location
59 Shimogamo Izumikawa-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 606-0807
Transportation Access
Train:
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Keihan Railway “Demachiyanagi Station”
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Eizan Electric Railway “Demachiyanagi Station”
Bus:
- Immediately after alighting at the city bus “Shimogamo Shrine” stop
- Approximately 5 minutes on foot after alighting at the city bus “Tadasu no Mori” stop
Car:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Meishin Expressway “Kyoto Minami IC”
- Parking available (paid, 150 spaces in the west parking lot)
Visiting Hours
- Shrine Grounds Visiting Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
- Prayer Reception Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Admission Fee
Shrine grounds visiting is free. However, special visits (entering the inner gate) are subject to a fee (500 yen for adults).
Points to Note During Your Visit
- Stroll through Tadasu no Mori: Enjoy the atmosphere of the ancient forest while walking along the approach to the shrine.
- Visit the Main Shrine: Visit both the East and West Main Shrines.
- Visit the Subsidiary Shrines: Visit the subsidiary shrines according to your purpose.
- Goshuin (Shrine Seal): Obtain a Goshuin at the shrine office (multiple types available).
- Amulets and Ema (Votive Tablets): Various types are available, including those for matchmaking, beauty, and protection against evil.
Nearby Attractions
Kamigamo Shrine (Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine)
This shrine is a counterpart to Kamo Mioya Shrine and enshrines Kamo Wakeikazuchi no Mikoto. It is located approximately 3.5 kilometers north of Shimogamo Shrine, about a 15-minute bus or taxi ride away. Visiting both shrines together will give you a comprehensive understanding of the Kamo faith.
Kamo River Delta
Located near Demachiyanagi Station, this is the confluence of the Takano River and the Kamo River. Its delta-shaped topography makes it a popular recreational spot for Kyoto residents. Approximately a 5-minute walk from Shimogamo Shrine.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Approximately 2 kilometers south of Shimogamo Shrine. Formerly the residence of the emperor, it is now open to the public. The Aoi Festival procession departs from the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden
Approximately 1.5 kilometers northeast of Shimogamo Shrine. Japan’s oldest public comprehensive botanical garden, where visitors can enjoy plants of all seasons.
Works Set at Kamo Mioya Shrine
Due to its history and beautiful scenery, Kamo Mioya Shrine has been the setting for many literary works, films, and dramas.
Literary Works
- The Tale of Genji: The pinnacle of classical Heian period literature. It depicts the Aoi Festival.
- The Pillow Book: Essays by Sei Shonagon. Mentions of the Kamo Festival
- The Eccentric Family (Tomihiko Morimi): A contemporary novel. The Tadasu no Mori forest of Shimogamo Shrine is an important setting.
- Kamogawa Horumo (Manabu Manjome): A novel set in Kyoto. The area around Shimogamo Shrine appears.
Visual Works
- Onmyoji (Film): A film based on the novel by Baku Yumemakura. Set in Kyoto during the Heian period.
- The Eccentric Family (Anime): An anime adaptation of the novel by Tomihiko Morimi.
- Various Period Dramas: Frequently used as a filming location for works depicting the Heian period, such as NHK Taiga dramas.
Through these works, the charm of Kamo Mioya Shrine is widely conveyed both domestically and internationally.
Summary
Kamo Mioya Shrine (Shimogamo Shrine), as one of Kyoto’s oldest shrines, continues to transmit faith and culture that has been passed down from ancient times to the present day. The Tadasu no Mori forest and its shrine complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the National Treasure main hall and other important cultural properties, showcase the essence of Japanese shrine architecture and nature worship.
Annual events, including the Aoi Matsuri festival, offer a precious opportunity to experience the Heian period court culture, attracting many visitors from both Japan and abroad seeking blessings for matchmaking, beauty, and protection from evil.
When visiting Kyoto, be sure to visit Kamo Mioya Shrine and offer a moment of quiet prayer in this sacred place steeped in over a thousand years of history. The pure air of Tadasu no Mori and the solemn presence of the shrine buildings will soothe your soul and revitalize you.
