Gokonomiya-jinja
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TEL :075-611-0559 Address :174 Gokogumonzencho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto Access :Kintetsu Kyoto Line Momoyama Goryo-mae Station > 3 minutes walk Parking :There is a parking lot |
Introduction to Gokonomiya-jinja shrine
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. This name is said to have been bestowed upon him by Emperor Seiwa.
The shrine grounds are spacious, and after walking along a long approach, you will reach the worship hall.
There is a carving of Kinko Hermit riding a carp under the eaves of the worship hall. This is a scene where he emerges from the water on a carp to catch a dragon. Next to it is a carving depicting the legend of a carp that climbs the waterfall and turns into a dragon.
Further inside is the main hall, which was built by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1605. This is designated as an Important Cultural Property.
Legendary spring water
Legend says that the water that springs from the shrine grounds instantly cures illnesses when drunk. Even today, the water is drawn from 150 meters underground and is known as one of Kyoto’s famous springs.
There are also fortune slips where the characters appear when you float them on water.
Furthermore, because this area has many places where clean water springs forth, it has flourished as a center for sake brewing since ancient times. There were many sake barrels offered as votive offerings on the shrine grounds.
Events
Gokonomiya-jinja Shrine holds various events and festivals throughout the year. The festival in October is especially grand.
Various Shinto rituals are performed at the shrine, and many food stalls line the grounds.
In addition, portable shrines, ochigosan (children in elaborate costumes) , and lion dances parade through the surrounding towns.
