10 Shrines and Temples to Visit in Kyoto.

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Kyoto was my first destination when I first arrived in Japan. The city is renowned for its numerous temples and shrines. On my first morning, I left my hostel and set out on foot without a concrete path, only guided by intuition.

Ōtoyo Shrine - 大豊神社

Figures out I started walking along the philosopher’s path! I stumbled upon many quaint shrines, but one in particular captivated me. Four or maybe five? little shrines situated next to each other!

The peculiar shrine revealed an array of miniature altars, each dedicated to different creatures such as mice, snakes, monkeys, and more. The tiny altars were adorned with adorable statues, delicate lanterns, and various offerings, creating a charming and magical display that made me feel like I was in a fairy tale deep in the woods.

The encounter with the 5 legged legendary creature at the Inari Shrine?!

old map of the fushimi inari shrine — Old map of Fushimi Inari Shrine area.

2. Fushimi Inari Taisha - 伏見稲荷大社

Next up is one of the most popular shrines in Kyoto (famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates), and also one of my all-time favorites! It is situated on top of a hill and is scattered all over it. I have visited it twice, taking different paths each time, and it took me around 2 hours to find my way out!

Dedicated to no other than the Inari fox! resulting in many fox statues across the shrine grounds.

On one of the pathways I have also encountered:

2a. Suehiro Okami - 末廣大神 Fortune frog shrine!

2b. Gosha Daimyojin - 歓喜院五社大明神

A hidden shrine nestled between residential buildings, with a river at its base. The old lady who takes care of it permitted us to descend to the stream. Normally, there is a plaque with a "do not enter" sign. Blissful place.

3. Kifune Shrine - 貴船神社,

4. Kurama-dera temple - 鞍馬寺 and

5. Yuki Shrine - 由岐神社

I had to group these three together since it's just a half-day trip to the northern mountain area in Kyoto. The journey includes a lovely short train ride, beautiful scenery, and enjoyable short hikes.

I suggest getting there early as the temples and eateries close at 3pm. 10 am should be a good start!

You can check out this hiking trail

Or this is what I did:

Start at Kibuneguchi Station and walk (24 min) to the Kifune Shrine. (You can also take the bus, but it’s not as fun).
On the way you can stop at Kokon Fujiya cafe to enjoy the river views and drink some matcha with traditional sweets!

At the Kifune Shrine, you can purchase a fortune that can only be revealed when placed into the water. You can also get a handwritten goshuin here!
After that take the hiking path through the mountains to the Kurama-dera Temple!
It should be clearly marked with arrows and directions. Enjoy the beautiful scenery from the top of the mountains!

Continue down the pathway to the Yuki Shrine.
One of the most memorable features of Yuki-jinja Shrine is a monolithic 800-year-old cedar which stands 53 meters tall in front of the main hall. It is believed to be a yorishiro, an object that attracts kami, or spirits, in Shinto Buddhism.

Yuki Shrine 800-year-old cedar, Spring 2023
The ancient cedar is thought to be imbued with special powers and make dreams come true to those who pray to it.

From there, you can exit to the Kurama station that will bring you back to Kyoto. But before you leave, take some time to explore the little village. It is full of beautiful traditional eateries, trinket and doll/mask shops all around!

6. Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple - 愛宕念仏寺

7. Daihikaku Senkoji Temple - 大悲閣千光寺

The two temples are a 55-minute walking distance apart. Additionally, there are plenty of other temples to explore, a beautiful riverbank walk, and an old town waiting to be discovered.

Daihikaku Senkoji Temple This suggestion was made by a follower. The place is situated at the end of the river bank pathways at the top of the hill. It is run by monks, and there is a bit of a hoarding situation going on there, which makes this place that much more appealing.

Oh and also they have a dog resident!