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Mikane Shrine (Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture) — Overview (History, Features, and Attractions)
Mikane Shrine is a small shrine located in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City, and is widely known for its blessings of financial luck and business prosperity. The shrine enshrines deities related to metals and wealth, such as Kanayamahiko-no-Mikoto, and has long been a place of worship for local merchants and craftsmen. While the grounds are compact, they are characterized by offerings and decorations with a gold motif, making it popular with worshippers praying for better fortune and as a photogenic spot.
Highlights
- Ema talismans for good fortune and business prosperity: There is a wide variety of talismans available, including oval-shaped ones and ones decorated with gold leaf, wallet charms, and golden talismans, and they are popular souvenirs.
- Decorations within the grounds and the shrine building: There are many spots where you'll want to take photos, with gold-themed colors and accessories scattered throughout (but please be sure to follow photography etiquette).
- Praying etiquette: In addition to offering a coin and making a wish, many people also receive a charm to pray for better financial luck. Many worshippers have the habit of purifying their wallets and coins before taking them home.
- Seasonal events: The number of visitors increases especially around the time of New Year's visits to the shrine, the end of the fiscal year, and payday, and the items offered may sell out early.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station (approximate): 10-15 minute walk from Karasuma-Oike Station on the Karasuma and Tozai subway lines. 12-20 minute walk from Karasuma Station on the Hankyu line.
- Bus: Take any Kyoto City Bus route and get off at Karasuma Oike or a nearby bus stop, then walk.
- Car/Parking: As roads and parking spaces are limited in the surrounding area, it is convenient to use public transportation. If you use a nearby paid parking lot, it may be full during busy times.
- Locations and current event and award times may change, so please check official information and local guidance before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Normal visit: Approximately 15 to 30 minutes (including time to choose an amulet and take photos).
- Take your time choosing an amulet at the gift shop. When it's crowded, it's a good idea to allow 30 to 60 minutes.
Nearby spots
- Nijo Castle: A historic castle and a popular walking spot.
- Nishiki Market: A shopping street where you can enjoy eating while strolling around Kyoto's kitchen (accessible on foot or by bus).
- Shijo Karasuma area: Lots of shopping and restaurants, making it a convenient base for sightseeing.
- Cultural facilities such as the Museum of Kyoto and the Kyoto International Manga Museum are also located nearby.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: There are many visitors on New Year's visits, at the end of the month, around payday, and on weekends and holidays, and the offerings may be in short supply. Please allow plenty of time for your visit.
- Size of the temple grounds: The temple grounds are relatively small, so please be considerate when moving around and taking photos so as not to disturb other visitors.
- Photography: Photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds, but please refrain from taking photos inside the worship hall or taking photos that may disturb other worshippers. Photography may be prohibited during religious ceremonies or festivals.
- Gift shop hours: Gift shop hours and distribution items vary depending on the season and events, so if you are visiting from afar, we recommend checking in advance.
- Cash management: It is said that it is customary to keep money in your wallet after praying for financial luck, but to prevent theft, don't forget to take basic precautions such as not carrying large amounts of cash and not touching anything on the grounds without permission.
*The location, offerings, opening and closing times, etc. may be subject to change. Please be sure to check the official Mikane Shrine information and on-site notices for the latest information.
