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Kifune Jinja is the head shrine of about 450 shrines across Japan that enshrine water deities. It enshrines Takaokami no Kami, the god who governs water, and has long been worshipped by the imperial court and ordinary people to pray for rain and for agricultural water. It is also known as a deity of matchmaking, and its unique offerings, including the Mizu-uranai Omikuji, are popular.
Shrine Info
- Enshrined Deity
- Takaokami no Kami
- Founded
- The earliest record of the rebuilding of the shrine buildings dates to Hakuho 6 (666)
- Annual Festival
- Reisai and Kifune Matsuri (June)
History & Origins
The founding date of Kifune Jinja is uncertain, but records of the rebuilding of its shrine buildings go back to 666 (the 6th year of Hakuho). In the Heian period, records survive of the imperial court offering a black horse in times of drought and a white horse in times of prolonged rain to pray for rain or clear skies. It is a distinguished shrine listed in the Engishiki as a Shikinaisha.
Highlights
The 'Mizu-uranai Omikuji', in which letters appear when the paper is floated on sacred water in the grounds, is famous as Kifune Jinja's own form of fortune-telling. The village of Kifune, where one can enjoy kawadoko (riverside dining) in early summer, is also a popular spot to combine with a shrine visit. In summer, a Tanabata bamboo decoration illumination (July-August) is held, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
Visitor Guide
From Kibuneguchi Station on the Eizan Electric Railway, take a bus and get off at the Kifune stop, then walk about 5 minutes. The main shrine is open for worship 6:00-20:00 (May-November). Walking on to the inner shrine also takes you past spots associated with matchmaking blessings.
Best Season
Summer (May-September), the kawadoko dining season, and the Tanabata bamboo decoration illumination period from July to August are especially popular. The autumn foliage is also beautiful and draws many worshippers.
Annual Events
- June
Reisai (Kifune Matsuri, Annual Festival)
The annual festival of Kifune Jinja, held on June 1. A festival to give thanks to the water deity and to pray for a bountiful harvest of the five grains and the safety of the nation.
- July to August
Tanabata Bamboo Decoration Light-Up
A Tanabata light-up held from sunset until 8 p.m., from July 1 to August 15. Tanzaku wish strips hung on bamboo decorate the grounds.
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