Imamiya Jinja

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History & Origins

Imamiya Jinja is said to have been founded in 1001 (the 3rd year of Choho), when a portable shrine was carried in procession to appease the plague deities during an epidemic. In the Edo period, because of the story of Keishoin (Otama no Kata), who rose from being the daughter of a Nishijin textile merchant to become the mother of a shogun, it also became widely known as the 'Tama no Koshi Shrine.'

Highlights

The 'Tama no Koshi Mamori' charm is unique to this shrine and is especially popular with women. The 'Yasurai Matsuri,' held in spring, is known as one of Kyoto's three strange festivals and is a traditional ritual for calming plague deities. The aburi-mochi served by two teahouses in front of the east gate, 'Ichimonjiya Wasuke (Ichiwa)' and 'Kazariya,' is also a local specialty.

Visitor Guide

The shrine is about 5 minutes by bus from Kitaoji Station on the subway, or a walk of about 15 to 20 minutes. Worship in the grounds is free. The aburi-mochi can be enjoyed at the teahouses in front of the east gate during business hours. It is close to Daitokuji, and visiting the two together is popular.

Best Season

The 'Yasurai Matsuri' on the second Sunday of April is notable for its colorful costumes and flower umbrellas. The days around the autumn annual festival (October 8 and 9) are also lively.

Blessings

Annual Events

• April

  Yasurai Matsuri (Yasurai Festival)

  One of the three unusual festivals of Kyoto, held on the second Sunday of April. Participants carry flower umbrellas and walk through the town to appease the spirits of plague.

• May

  Imamiya Matsuri (Imamiya Festival)

  The annual grand festival of Imamiya Jinja. Various rites and events are held, centered on a portable shrine procession.

• October

  Reisai (Annual Festival)

  An autumn annual festival held on October 8 and 9. The area around the grounds is lively.

Travel Plan

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