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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kurumazaki Shrine is a shrine located in Sagano (Arashiyama area) in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, and has long been a place of worship for locals. It is said to have been founded in the Heian period, and over the years it has become popular as a shrine for praying for the performing arts, academic success, road safety, and more. In recent years, it has become known as a "shrine of performing arts" (a shrine deeply worshipped by entertainers and cultural figures), and is characterized by the sight of numerous tamagaki fences (stone or wooden fences engraved with the names of individuals and organizations) lined up within the grounds. Its small, quiet appearance and convenient location make it an easy stop-off point between sightseeing in Arashiyama.
Highlights
- Geinojinja Shrine and Tamagaki: There are rows of tamagaki fences donated by many people in the entertainment industry and cultural figures, and you can see their names and the years they were donated up close. It's a unique sight that you'll want to capture in photos.
- Main hall and worship hall: You can worship and pray in the quiet shrine building. Although the grounds are small, there is a calm atmosphere where you can feel the changing of the seasons.
- Amulets and votive plaques (prayer for performing arts): Amulets and votive plaques are available for praying for the success of performing arts and performances. There are also many votive plaques on which worshippers have written their individual wishes.
- Strolling around the temple grounds: The narrow paths, stone steps, seasonal trees and moss create a typical Arashiyama atmosphere, making it a relaxing place to walk even for a short distance.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Keifuku Electric Railroad (Arashiyama Main Line): Kurumazakijinja Station (nearest station, just a few minutes walk). This is the most convenient and easy access.
- JR Sagano Line (San'in Main Line): About a 15-20 minute walk from Saga-Arashiyama Station. You can get there while walking along the tourist route.
- Hankyu Railway, Arashiyama direction: From Hankyu Arashiyama Station, it is approximately a 20-25 minute walk or you will need to transfer to other means of transportation.
- Kyoto City Bus/Keihan Bus: Within walking distance from the bus stop for Arashiyama. However, the travel time varies depending on the bus stop.
- Cars and Parking: As the surrounding area is a tourist destination, traffic congestion and lack of parking spaces are common. We recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visiting the shrine and strolling around the grounds: Approximately 20 to 40 minutes
- If you purchase a charm and write on a votive plaque, it takes 30 to 60 minutes.
- If you are combining your visit with sightseeing in the surrounding Arashiyama area: It is best to plan this as part of a half-day to full-day itinerary.
Nearby spots
- Arashiyama/Togetsukyo Bridge (walking distance) — The center of Arashiyama tourism, where you can enjoy strolling and riverside views.
- Tenryu-ji Temple — A World Heritage temple, it boasts beautiful gardens and seasonal scenery.
- Bamboo Forest Path - A typical Sagano landscape. Accessible on foot from Kurumazaki Shrine.
- Nonomiya Shrine — An ancient shrine near the bamboo grove, known for prayers for love and academic success.
- Daikakuji Temple, Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple, and more - temple and shrine pilgrimage spots in the Saga and Arashiyama area.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: Arashiyama is especially crowded in spring (cherry blossoms), autumn (autumn leaves), and on weekends and holidays. During busy times, the grounds and approach roads become narrow, so please allow yourself plenty of time when visiting.
- Manners: Shrines are places of worship. Please refrain from shouting, eating, drinking, or entering any off-limits areas in front of the worship hall, the shrine office, or within the worship hall. Photography is generally permitted, but please be considerate when there are festivals or priests performing their duties.
- photo shoot: You can take photos of the Tamagaki fence and other structures, but excessive contact with or removal of personal offerings is strictly prohibited. If people are in the photo, please be considerate and ask before taking the photo.
- Seasonal precautions: In winter, it can get cold and the ground can become slippery. Please be careful on the stone steps and approach roads when it rains.
- Shrine office hours: Generally, worship itself is free, but offerings (amulets, red seals, etc.) and procedures at the shrine office can only be done during the shrine office's opening hours (9:00-16:00 at most shrines). Please check the official information for the latest opening hours in advance.
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*Please check the official website or local information in advance for the latest visiting hours, festivals, and transportation information.
