Culture
Shimogamo Shrine, Kyoto
Bonson LamHome of the Aoi Matsuri or the Hollyhock Leaf Crest Festival, which blossomed throughout Japan when the Tale of Genji was written in the Heian Period.
The Kamo Shrines, Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine are both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are two of the most important and oldest shrines in Kyoto. They are located in the north of the city and are intentionally placed to ward off evil and Protect the city In fact, the two Kamo shrines are even older than the city, which became the national capital in 794.
Shimogamo Shrine is located at the confluence of the Takano and Kamo Rivers and is surrounded by a forest that contains trees up to 600 years old. The Kamigamo Shrine is about three and a half kilometers upstream and is known for two sand cones on its site, which have a cleaning function for the sanctuary and have been ritually made since ancient times.
Together the shrines host one of Kyoto's three biggest festivals, the Aoi Matsuri, which takes place on May 15th.
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15-minute walk from Denmachi-Yanagi Station (Keihan Line)
5-minute bus ride from Denmachi-Yanagi Station to Shimogamojinja-mae stop (via city bus no. 4)
Home of the Aoi Matsuri or the Hollyhock Leaf Crest Festival, which blossomed throughout Japan when the Tale of Genji was written in the Heian Period.
An early morning visit in late December to one of Japan's oldest shrines, Shimogamo Jinja, was cold and beautiful. The sun had not yet shown its face, and so the sky was still black, and the shrine grounds were virtually empty.
Kyoto Shimogamo Shrine: God of the legendary "Three-legged Crow"
Shimogamo Shrine in Summer: The formal approach to the shrine cuts through Tadasu-no-mori Forest. Enjoy a pleasant walk along the water!
Photos of World Heritage Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto, one of Kyoto's two Kamo Shrines. Shimogamo pre-dates Kyoto becoming the Imperial capital in 794
For two to four people a vacation rental like Kuramaguchi-An offers a lot more space, freedom and convenience than a hotel at very little extra cost.
Mrs. Matsui’s family home was previously a workshop that produced hand-woven obi sashes. Today, the guest room is open for guests to experience an authentic side of Kyoto, with views of the courtyard garden on two sides. Experience sleeping Japanese style on the futon bedding, laid out on a tatami straw mat. There is air conditioning and heating, as well as tea making facilities. Like many old houses, the shower and bathroom are located in the courtyard. Alternatively, walk down to the public bath or sento, or try the bicycle to explore further afield. Kinkakuji, or the Golden Temple is a short ride away, as is the Ryoanji stone garden.
Opened in June 2021, this is a venture between the Marriott group and Sun Frontier Hotel Management Co., Ltd.
Cooking with Taro, his wife Yoshiko and their young daughter Haruko is like experiencing a slice of Japanese family life. Learn simple healthy recipes like beef & tofu.
Samjhana offers Nepalese cuisine in Takanotakeya, Kyoto.
Akatsuki Coffee, Kyoto: A cozy neighborhood coffee shop.
The Kyoto Imperial Palace is the former ruling palace of the Emperor of Japan. Since the Meiji Restoration in 1869, the Emperors have resided at the Tokyo Imperial Palace, while the preservation of the Kyoto Imperial Palace was ordered in 1877. [Wikipedia] A reservation is required to visit the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Located in the heart of the city, Kyoto Gyoen National Garden is a natural oasis perfect for escaping the busyness of urban life. This vast green space surrounds the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace and was designated as a national garden in 1949. The garden is open all day, everyday, and free to enter. Enjoy the beautifully landscaped trails and seasonal flowers, such as cherry blossoms, wisterias, plums, and lilies, or bring a blanket and have a picnic on the lush grass. Given the garden’s abundance of nature, it is a popular place for tourists and residents alike and is always filled with joggers, dog walkers, picnickers, and cyclists. The greenspace also has athletic facilities. Aside from its natural beauty, the garden is also home to numerous historical and traditional buildings. Of course, the garden’s most treasured structure is the Kyoto Imperial Palace. The imperial palace was home to Japan’s emperors until the Meiji Restoration, when Japan’s capital moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. Today, the campus offers us a glimpse into the past with its historic halls, traditional designs, opulent decor, vermillion accents, residences, and more. You can visit the palace year-round. The Kyoto Sento Imperial Palace, which served as the palace for former emperors, is also available to tour. Apply for tickets online in advance or obtain walk-in tickets (please note that walk-in tickets are limited). The tour features an hour-long stroll through the palace’s immaculate gardens. Kyoto Gyoen is also the site of Shu Sui Tei Teahouse where you can experience tea ceremonies for 100 yen per person, the Kaninnomiya Residence, and numerous smaller shrines. Go on a leisurely walk and enjoy the combination of idyllic nature and historic learning.
Enkō-ji, is a Zen Buddhist temple located near the Shugakuin Imperial Villa at Sakyō-ku, Ichijo-ji, Kotani-cho, in northeast Kyoto, Japan. It is famous for its fall foliage and Suikinkutsu. [Wikipedia]