Enjoy Travel to Japan!
Home

Kibune Shrine, a summer resort in Kyoto - a healing spot of nature and water

Kibune Shrine, a summer resort in Kyoto - a healing spot of nature and water

What is Kibune Shrine?

Kibune Shrine (Kibune-jinja) is a shrine with a long history located in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, and has long been worshipped as the god of water.

It is especially known as a summer resort visited by many tourists and locals because of its beautiful nature and cool and refreshing river flow that makes people forget the summer heat.

Kibune Shrine has a long history dating back to the Heian period (794-1192) and is especially revered as the "god of marriage.

The shrine is crowded with couples wishing to get married and worshippers seeking a connection, creating a romantic atmosphere.



Access

Kibune Shrine is located in a rich natural setting a short distance from the center of Kyoto City.

It is accessible from the city by train or bus.

  • Train: From Demachiyanagi Station, take the Eizan Electric Railway to Kibune-guchi Station. From the station, it is about a 30-minute walk or you can take a bus.
  • Bus: Take the Kyoto Bus from Kibune-guchi to Kibune in about 5 minutes.



Highlights of Kibune Shrine

Water Divination

At Kibune Shrine, you can experience a special "water fortune-telling" experience. Dip a fortune into the water, and the characters will come to life, giving you an idea of your fortune.

This is a unique experience rarely seen at other shrines and is of interest to travelers.

Okumiya Shrine

Kifune Shrine has a sacred place called Okumiya.

The Okumiya is believed to be the place where Kifune Shrine was founded, and it stands in the midst of a deep forest, its appearance mysterious.

It is a place of serenity and beauty, where one can feel as if one's mind is being purified.

Clear waters of the Kibune River and kawadoko in summer

Kawadoko," or riverbeds, are especially famous in summer.

Visitors can enjoy the coolness of the river while listening to the murmuring of the river in a dining space set up along the Kibune River.

It is a refreshing break from hot summer sightseeing in Kyoto to take a break in the natural surroundings of Kibune.



Points to note when visiting Kibune Shrine

  • Temperature: Due to the higher elevation than the city, the temperature is cooler. Even in summer, a light jacket is recommended for comfort.
  • Footwear: Comfortable shoes are recommended as there are stone steps and muddy paths to the shrine grounds and Okumiya Shrine.


Recommended time to visit

Kibune Shrine is worth visiting throughout the year, but the best times to visit are summer andautumn.

  • Summer: the perfect time to enjoy the kawadoko (riverbed) and the coolness of nature. Dining while feeling the murmuring of the river is relaxing for both body and soul.
  • Autumn: The entire shrine is decorated with beautiful reds and yellows when the autumn leaves are in their full splendor. This is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.



Conclusion

Kibune Shrine is a hidden gem in Kyoto where visitors can enjoy nature, history, and unique experiences.

It is especially attractive as a summer retreat, where visitors can enjoy a cool moment on the riverbed and have a unique experience such as water divination.

It is also easily accessible from Kyoto City, making it ideal for a full day of sightseeing. We hope you will visit Kibune Shrine on your next trip to Kyoto.



Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the hours of worship at Kibune Shrine?

A: Takifune Shrine is usually open from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm, but hours may vary depending on the season. We recommend checking the official website for the latest information.


Q: Is there a fee to visit Kifune Shrine?

A: There is no fee to visit Kifune Shrine. However, there is a fee for the water divination omikuji.


Q: Do I need to make a reservation for the Takifune kawadoko?

A: We recommend making reservations in advance, as the kawayuka are very popular.




Discover More

More Travel Stories

Continue your journey through Japan with these handpicked travel experiences

京都観光のハイライト:金閣寺の魅力と楽しみ方
Traditional Culture

Kyoto Sightseeing Highlights: Attractions and Things to Do at Kinkakuji Temple

Kyoto
Read More
宇治抹茶の魅力全開!京都で体験する最高の抹茶文化
Food

The full appeal of Uji matcha! The Best Matcha Culture to Experience in Kyoto

Kyoto
Read More
京都のトロッコ列車で行く絶景の旅!
Trip

A trip to Kyoto on a trolley train with spectacular views!

Kyoto
Read More
絶景の楽園!京都・天橋立の完全ガイド
Trip

A paradise of spectacular views! A complete guide to Amanohashidate, Kyoto

Kyoto
Read More
京都の秘境!美山かやぶきの里で体験する日本の原風景
Traditional Culture

Kyoto's unexplored region! Experience the original Japanese landscape at Miyama Kayabuki-no-Sato

Kyoto
Read More
京都・伊根の舟屋:海に浮かぶ伝統的な町並みとその魅力
Life

Boathouse in Ine, Kyoto: Traditional townscape on the sea and its charm

Kyoto
Read More
京都三大祭りの一つ!葵祭とは?見どころや開催情報を徹底解説
Traditional Culture

One of the three major festivals in Kyoto! What is Aoi Matsuri? Thorough explanation of the highlights and information on the festival

Kyoto
Read More
京都・鞍馬山の魅力とアクセス方法|自然と歴史を楽しむ旅
Trip

Attractions and access to Mt. Kurama, Kyoto|Travel to enjoy nature and history

Kyoto
Read More
京都・永観堂の魅力と紅葉の楽しみ方
Trip

Charms of Eikando Hall in Kyoto and how to enjoy autumn leaves

Kyoto
Read More