Wakamiya-Hachimangu
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TEL :075-561-1261 Address :5 Chome-480 Gojobashihigashi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto Access :JR Kyoto Station > (city bus) > Kawaramachi Gojo bus stop > 5 minutes walk |
Introduction to Wakamiya-Hachimangu shrine
It is said that Wakamiya-Hachimangu shrine was founded in 1053 at the behest of Emperor Go-Reizei. During the Muromachi period (1336-1573), it flourished under the reverence of successive Ashikaga shoguns, but was devastated by the Ōnin War. After several relocations, it finally moved to its current location in 1605.
The enshrined deities are Emperor Ojin, Emperor Chuai, and Empress Jingu. Furthermore, in 1949, Shiinetsuhiko-no-Mikoto, the god of pottery, was enshrined there, making it famous as a pottery shrine.
The Pottery Festival, held annually from August 7th to 10th, features a pottery market throughout the Gojo-zaka area, attracting large crowds.
Highlights of the shrine grounds
Within the shrine grounds, there is a shrine dedicated to Shoki (Zhong Kui ), a deity from Taoism. This is believed to ward off evil and protect against poverty.
Since Shoki statues are often made of pottery, this shrine was built as a pottery shrine.
A full-length mirror is placed in front of the worship hall. Next to it is written in Japanese: “Beautiful in body and mind.” If you take a look at yourself and correct your appearance before praying, you will likely receive many blessings.
Nearby, you’ll find a sacred tree that is said to bring good fortune in finding love, as well as a heart-shaped stone.
