Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Seimei Shrine, located in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, is dedicated to Abe no Seimei, a famous onmyoji (magician) from the Heian period. According to legend, it was built on the site of Abe no Seimei's residence and has been attracting worshippers since shortly after his death (Heian period). The shrine's crest, a five-pointed star (also known as the Seimei bellflower), is widely known as a design symbolizing Seimei's barriers and magic, and is used as decoration within the shrine grounds and on amulets.
Although compact, it has a unique atmosphere, and is characterized by the large number of visitors who are interested in Onmyodo, talismans, and fortune-telling, as well as history buffs and those who visit to see the locations featured in anime and novels (often featured in manga and novels).The old well known as Seimei-i and the torii gate and decorations with a pentagram motif are popular photo spots.
Highlights
- Pentagram (Seimei crest): A symbol of Seimei that can be seen on the worship hall, torii gates, and shrine offices. A famous photo spot.
- Seimei-i: A legendary well within the temple grounds. Known for its never-ending water, it has been an object of worship since ancient times.
- Ichijo Modoribashi Bridge (surrounding area): This old bridge is famous for being the place where Seimei is associated with monsters and legends. It is often visited in conjunction with a visit to Seimei Shrine.
- Amulets and Ema: You can get unique amulets related to Onmyodo, such as talismans to ward off evil spirits and evil spirits, as well as ema with a Seimei motif.
- Seasonal Events: Traditional events such as the annual Seimei Festival feature costumed processions and religious ceremonies, creating a lively atmosphere (please check for details for each year).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Subway: Accessible on foot from Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station on the Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line. It's approximately a 10-20 minute walk from the station (this may vary depending on the station and route).
- City bus: Kyoto City Bus stops such as "Horikawa Ichijo" and "Horikawa Imadegawa" are nearby, and it's a short walk of a few minutes to 10 minutes to get there. The travel time varies depending on the route and time of day, so please check the route in advance.
- Taxi: It is easy to access by taxi from central Kyoto or from the station (Kyoto Station, Shijo area). Please be careful of where you get on and off as the roads can be narrow in some places.
*Specific routes and travel times may vary depending on the departure point and traffic conditions. Please check the latest timetables and routes with your transportation provider.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 20-30 minutes (visiting the main hall, taking photos, purchasing amulets, etc.)
- A thorough tour: 30-60 minutes (including a stroll around the nearby Ichijo Modoribashi Bridge and the surrounding area)
Nearby spots
- Ichijo Modoribashi Bridge: A bridge deeply connected to the legend of Seimei. It is recommended to visit this bridge together with Seimei Shrine.
- Kyoto Gyoen and Kyoto Imperial Palace: Located within walking distance or a short distance, these are ideal for strolling and visiting the gardens.
- Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Kitano): A shrine dedicated to the god of learning. Depending on the season, you can enjoy plum blossoms and festivals (although it's a bit far away).
- Old townscape around Kamigyo Ward: You can create a walking course that takes you around Kyoto-style alleyways and temples and shrines.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The temple gets crowded during tourist season (cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in autumn), on weekends, and during events such as the Seimei Festival. If you want to worship quietly, we recommend visiting on weekdays or early in the morning.
- Worship etiquette: Please observe standard worship etiquette, such as purifying your hands at the chozu (water basin) at the shrine and clapping twice and bowing once at the worship hall. Please follow the instructions on the grounds and in the shrine office.
- Photography: Photography is permitted in many places within the temple grounds, but please refrain from taking photos during rituals, inside the worship hall, or where instructed by officials.
- Clothing and footwear: The temple grounds are paved with stone pavement and paths, which can become slippery on rainy days. It is best to wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Gifts and Goshuin: Due to their popularity, there may be lines for amulets and goshuin depending on the time of day. Please take waiting times into consideration when planning your visit.
- Consideration for local life: There are many residential areas and residential roads in the surrounding area, so please be considerate of local residents by not making loud noises or leaving trash behind.
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If you wish, we can also create a model itinerary around the Seimei Shrine area (walking routes or half-day itineraries using public transport), detailed locations of photo spots, and the latest event schedules (see official website). Please let us know what information you would like.
