Discover Kyoto's Hidden Gems: The Five Best Shrines as Uncovered by Kannushisan

Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is a treasure trove of cultural and historical wonders. Among its many attractions, the city's numerous shrines hold a special significance, offering a glimpse into the spiritual traditions and beliefs of the Japanese people.

Kannushisan ga oshietekureru kyoto no jinja Best five Japanese English Bilingual Edition (Japanese Edition)

by Kenji Maeda

5 out of 5

Language	:	Japanese
File size	:	22685 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	123 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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To help you experience the best of Kyoto's shrines, we've sought the insights of renowned temple expert Kannushisan, who has carefully curated his top five picks. These hidden gems, often overlooked by tourists, promise an enriching and unforgettable cultural encounter.

1. Shimogamo Shrine (下鴨神社)

Nestled amidst a serene forest, Shimogamo Shrine is one of the oldest and most important shrines in Kyoto. It is dedicated to the deities of thunder and rain, who were believed to protect the city from natural disasters. The shrine's main hall, known as the Honden, is a masterpiece of traditional Japanese architecture, with its distinctive thatched roof and intricate carvings. Shimogamo Shrine is also renowned for its beautiful gardens, which are a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring. (See Shimogamo Shrine during cherry blossom season.)

2. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (北野天満宮)

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a revered scholar and statesman. He is worshipped as the god of scholarship, and the shrine is a popular destination for students and academics. The shrine's main buildings, including the Honden and Haiden, are adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs. Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is also famous for its plum blossoms, which bloom in a stunning display of pink and white flowers in the late winter.

3. Fushimi Inari Shrine (伏見稲荷大社)

Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most popular shrines in Kyoto, known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that line the path leading up to the mountaintop shrine. The gates are said to represent the path to enlightenment, and visitors often walk through them to pray for good fortune and prosperity. Fushimi Inari Shrine is also a popular spot for hiking, offering stunning views of the city from the summit of Mount Inari. (See Hiking to the summit of Mount Inari.)

4. Kiyomizu-dera Temple (清水寺)

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple is famous for its wooden stage, which is built on stilts and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest. Kiyomizu-dera Temple is dedicated to the goddess of mercy, and it is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. The temple's name means "pure water temple," and it is believed that the water from the nearby spring has healing powers. (See Kiyomizu-dera Temple at night.)

5. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (嵐山竹林)

While not a shrine in the traditional sense, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a must-visit destination in Kyoto. The grove is made up of thousands of towering bamboo plants, which create a magical and serene atmosphere. Visitors can walk through the grove on a path that leads to the Tenryuji Temple. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a popular spot for photography, and it is also a popular destination for hiking and meditation.

Kyoto's shrines offer a unique and enriching cultural experience, providing a glimpse into the history, architecture, and spiritual traditions of Japan. By following in the footsteps of Kannushisan and visiting these hidden gems, you can experience the true essence of Kyoto and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Kannushisan ga oshietekureru kyoto no jinja Best five Japanese English Bilingual Edition (Japanese Edition)

by Kenji Maeda

5 out of 5

Language	:	Japanese
File size	:	22685 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	123 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE