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Shimogamo Shrine 下鴨神社
Sakyo, Kyoto · Open in Google Maps
Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo-mioya Jinja) is one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto and part of the UNESCO World Heritage site "Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto". It enshrines Kamo-taketsunumi and Tamayori-hime of the Kamo clan.
What to look for
- It is approached through Tadasu no Mori, an ancient forest preserved near the meeting of the Kamo and Takano rivers.
- With Kamigamo Shrine, it holds the Aoi Matsuri in May, one of Kyoto's three great festivals, with a procession in Heian-period costume.
- Mitarashi dango, the sweet grilled rice dumplings sold all over Japan, are said to have originated here.
- Aioi-sha in the grounds is visited for matchmaking.
Enshrined kami
- Kamo-taketsunumi 賀茂建角身命
- Tamayori-hime 玉依姫命
What people pray for here
Matchmaking, safe childbirth and children, and warding off misfortune.
Etiquette
Walk the forest approach slowly; it is one of the most peaceful places in Kyoto.
New to shrines? Read our short guide to shrine etiquette: purifying your hands, bowing and clapping, offerings, omamori and goshuin.