Kifune Shrine In Kibune
About the Kifune Shrine Camera
Kifune Shrine lies in a narrow river valley in the mountains north of Kyoto, dedicated to the deity of water. For centuries the imperial court sent offerings here to pray for rain or for rain to stop, and it remains the head of a nationwide network of water shrines.
Its best-known feature is the stairway. A flight of stone steps climbs between rows of vermilion lanterns to the main hall, and the shot of that approach under snow is one of the standard images of winter in Kyoto. The shrine also offers water fortunes, blank slips that reveal their text only when floated in the sacred spring.
The valley is several degrees cooler than the city, which is why Kibune fills up in summer: restaurants build platforms out over the river and serve meals above the running water. Kurama, with its temple and the Kurama Fire Festival, is over the ridge and connected by a walking trail.
Highlights & Nearby
- •Watch for: the lantern-lined stone stairway, snow on the steps in winter, cool summer evenings in the valley
- •Nearby: Kibune's riverside dining platforms, Kurama-dera, the Kurama-Kibune trail, Eizan Railway
- •Note: the valley runs noticeably cooler than central Kyoto, which is why it is a summer destination
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kifune Shrine camera live?
Yes. It streams continuously.
What is the shrine dedicated to?
The deity of water. The imperial court historically sent offerings here to pray for rain, or for rain to cease.
What are the water fortunes?
Blank paper slips that reveal their writing only when floated on the shrine's sacred spring water.
Why do people visit in summer?
The valley is several degrees cooler than Kyoto, and restaurants serve meals on platforms built out over the river.
