Shimogamo Shrine (下鴨神社), also known as Kamomioya Shrine, is a Shinto shrine located in the northern part of Kyoto, Japan. It is one of the oldest and most important shrines in Kyoto, believed to have been established before the 6th century, and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with Kamigamo Shrine, as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”
The shrine is dedicated to the god Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto and the goddess Tamayorihime no Mikoto, who are said to be the deities that pioneered the ancient Kyoto area. The main hall (Honden) and the auxiliary hall (Gonden), built in the traditional Shinto architectural style known as “nagare-zukuri,” are both designated as National Treasures of Japan.
One of the highlights of Shimogamo Shrine is its serene natural setting. The shrine is situated in a forested area at the base of Mount Kamo, and is surrounded by the Tadasu no Mori forest, a primeval forest considered sacred. The shrine’s annual Aoi Matsuri festival, held on May 15th, is a prominent event in Kyoto, featuring a grand procession reminiscent of Heian period court life.
Shimogamo Shrine is also known for the Mitarashi Matsuri, held in July on the Day of the Ox during the doyo period. This festival features the Ashi-zuke Shinji ritual, where participants walk through the Mitarashi Pond to pray for good health.
The shrine is believed to offer blessings for matchmaking, safe childbirth, and child-rearing. Additionally, within the shrine grounds is the Mitarashi Pond, from which the popular sweet treat “Mitarashi Dango” is said to have originated.
Getting there
By Bus
- From Kyoto Station:
- Take bus #205 to Shimogamo Jinja Mae (about 26 minutes)
- Take bus #4 to Shimogamo Jinja Mae
- From Kitaoji Station (Karasuma Subway Line):
- Take bus #205 to Shimogamo Jinja Mae (about 5 minutes)
By Subway and Bus
- Take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kitaoji Station
- From Kitaoji Bus Terminal, take bus #205 to Shimogamo Jinja Mae
By Train
- Take the Keihan Line to Demachi-Yanagi Station, then walk about 15 minutes
Walking
- About 15 minutes walk from Demachi-Yanagi Station
Details
| Hours | 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Admission | Free |
| Phone | +81 75-781-0010 |
| Address | 〒606-0807 Kyoto, Sakyo Ward, Shimogamo Izumikawacho, ５９ |
| Official Website | https://www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp/en |
