Seimei Shrine

Map

History & Origins

Abe no Seimei (921 to 1005) was a leading onmyoji of the mid-Heian period who was skilled in astronomy, calendar-making and divination and served the imperial court. The shrine was founded in 1007 (the 4th year of Kanko), two years after his death, by order of Emperor Ichijo on the site of Seimei's former residence. After falling into ruin through war, its grounds were reduced in the time of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and it was restored in the Meiji era to its present size.

Highlights

The pentagram (Seimei Kikyo), the protective mark Seimei used, appears throughout the grounds. The 'Seimei Well' is a sacred spring said to have been dug by Seimei, and each year at the start of spring (Risshun) the direction from which its water flows is set toward the lucky direction. Part of the railing of the Ichijo Modoribashi Bridge has also been moved to the grounds, conveying anecdotes about Seimei.

Visitor Guide

It is right next to the Ichijo Modoribashi Seimei Jinja-mae bus stop of the Kyoto City Bus. The torii gate facing Horikawa-dori is engraved with the pentagram crest, and the grounds are relatively compact. A wide variety of amulets and ema with pentagram designs are available.

Best Season

The grounds come alive around the autumn equinox (September), when the Seimei Festival is held. In spring, it is also recommended to combine a visit with the cherry blossoms near the nearby Ichijo Modoribashi Bridge.

Blessings

Annual Events

• February

  Setsubun Hoshi Matsuri (Setsubun Star Festival)

  A prayer festival to ward off evil held around Setsubun. Rites related to the astrology of Abe no Seimei are performed.

• September

  Seimei Matsuri (Seimei Festival)

  A grand annual festival held on the autumn equinox, with a portable shrine procession and a historical procession. It is the largest festival of the shrine.

Travel Plan

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