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Yasaka Koshindo (Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture) — Overview (History, Features, and Attractions)
Yasaka Koshindo is a small temple and shrine dedicated to the Koshin faith in the Higashiyama area of Kyoto. Koshin faith is a folk belief that originated in China and developed in Japan, and the temple enshrines Shomen Kongo as its principal deity, with many people coming to pray with the hope of avoiding illness and misfortune, and curbing their desires. The temple is particularly famous for the sight of colorful cloth monkey amulets known as "Kukurizaru" hanging all over the temple grounds, making it a popular photo spot with both domestic and international tourists.
Highlights
- Kukurizaru (colorful cloth monkeys): It is customary to write your wishes on them and hang them up, and the sight of them densely hanging from the pillars and eaves of the temple grounds is a spectacular sight. Each color is said to have a meaning, and it is also a popular photo spot.
- Main hall and offering hall: Though small in size, it still conveys the tradition of Koshin faith. Prayers and red seals are often offered here (please note that opening and closing times for the shrine office may vary).
- The Higashiyama scenery blends in with townhouses and stone steps: The surrounding area is home to the old streets and cobblestone streets of Kiyomizu-dera Temple, making it a great place to enjoy a stroll.
- Seasonal Appeal: In spring, the surrounding cherry blossoms add to the charm, while in autumn, the autumn leaves add to the atmosphere. There are also years when the area is lit up at night, so be sure to check the information.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station (convenient walking distance)
- It is about a 10-20 minute walk from Keihan Railway's Gion-Shijo Station or Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (travel time varies depending on the route).
- It is also within walking distance of Hankyu Kawaramachi Station (approximately a 15-25 minute walk).
- bus
- It is just a few minutes' walk from Kyoto City Bus stops such as "Kiyomizu-michi" and "Gojozaka." Travel time may be longer during peak tourist seasons depending on traffic conditions.
- car
- The roads in Higashiyama are narrow and parking is limited in the surrounding area, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Location: Within walking distance of major tourist spots such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, Gion, and Ishibekoji. Easy to incorporate into your sightseeing route.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short visit: 15 to 30 minutes (just enough time to look around the temple grounds, see the tied-up monkeys and take photos).
- If you want to take your time to worship and receive a goshuin or amulet: 30 to 60 minutes.
- If you plan to combine this with a stroll around the surrounding area, you should allow about 1-2 hours.
Nearby spots
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple (walking distance) — A major tourist attraction in Higashiyama. Famous for its Otowa Falls and stage.
- Yasaka Shrine - Gion's main shrine, located nearby.
- Gion, Hanamikoji, Ishibekoji — Streets famous for their traditional townhouses and maiko.
- Kodaiji Temple/Nene no Michi — Popular for its tree-lined path, gardens, and nighttime illuminations.
- Sannenzaka/Ninenzaka (Kiyomizuzaka) — A walking path lined with souvenir shops and teahouses.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The temple gets very crowded during the tourist season (cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in autumn, and the start of the new year). The temple grounds are small, so please be considerate of those around you when taking photos or stopping.
- Worship Manners: Please observe basic manners such as staying quiet so as not to disturb the prayers and worship, and not touching the Buddhist altar implements out of curiosity.
- Regarding the tied monkeys: When writing your wishes and hanging them, please follow the instructions of the staff and those posted. Do not remove or destroy them without permission.
- Footwear and clothing: There are many slopes and stone steps in the surrounding area, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Be careful as it can be slippery in rainy weather.
- Business hours and offerings: The opening and closing times of the shrine office and the availability of temple seals may vary depending on the day. Please check the official notices and information posted on-site in advance for accurate information.
- Consideration when taking photos: Please be considerate of the temple grounds and other visitors, and if there are any areas or times when photography is prohibited, please abide by these rules.
Yasaka Koshindo is small, but it is a fascinating spot where you can experience the scenery of colorful tied monkeys and the culture of Koshin faith. Visiting it in addition to Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Gion will make your stroll through Higashiyama even more fulfilling. Please check local signs and official information before visiting for the latest opening and closing times and event information.
