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The exact date of its founding is unknown, but it is a historically significant shrine with records indicating that fragrant water gushed forth within its grounds in 862. Gokonomiya means "fragrant shrine" in Japanese. Legend says that the water that springs from the shrine grounds instantly cures illnesses when drunk.

Manpuku-ji Temple was founded in 1661 and is the head temple of the Obaku school of Zen Buddhism. The Daiohohden, Tennoden, and Hatto are all National Treasures. There are also numerous other halls designated as Important Cultural Properties. Kaipan is a ritual implement shaped like a fish.

Nogi Shrine is a shrine dedicated to Nogi Maresuke and his wife, Nogi Shizuko, who made significant contributions to Japan's victory in the Russo-Japanese War. Within the shrine grounds, there is a spring of famous water from Fushimi, and it is said that drinking it will bring you good luck in winning.

"Kadode" is a Japanese word meaning "departure". This place is known as the site where Ushiwakamaru (Minamoto no Yoshitsune) prayed for safe travels before setting out on his journey. He won many battles with his unconventional strategies and is famous as a historical hero.

Shonenji Temple was founded in 1606. The story goes that when the temple fell into ruin, a cat kept by the head priest connected with the lord and helped the temple to be restored. The pine tree in the temple grounds is said to represent a lying down cat. There were signs and charms with illustrations of cats on them.

Kyoto's shrines and temples are home to statues and paintings of a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, monkeys, and rabbits. These are either related to gods or Buddhas or based on legends. Here we will introduce recommended shrines and temples for each type of animal.

It is a sub-temple of Tofuku-ji Temple, founded in 1550. The statue of Vaisravana enshrined here was made during the Heian period (794-1185) and is believed to bring good fortune in wealth and victory in battle. Zen meditation sessions are available. Beginners are welcome to participate.

There are many temples in Kyoto, and some of them offer zazen (Zen meditation) instruction in English. Here we will introduce a list of temples where English zazen sessions are held. Zazen is an experience that allows you to sit quietly, calm your mind, and experience Japanese spirituality.

Ootoyo-jinja shrine was founded in 887 to pray for the recovery of Emperor Uda from illness. The enshrined deity is Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto, the god of medicine. This shrine features statues of various animals, representing messengers of different gods. Mice are particularly well-known.

Zenkyoan is a sub-temple of Kenninji Temple. At Zenkyoan, prayers and Zen meditation sessions are held once a month. The prayer service will begin at 10:00, followed by a Zen meditation session around 10:30. These events are open to everyone and do not require reservations.