Kyoto is home to countless shrines, but Okazaki Shrine (Okazaki-jinja) stands out as a rare “rabbit shrine” where rabbits are enshrined as divine messengers—especially famous for prayers for safe childbirth and fertility.
Its formal name is Higashi Tennō Okazaki Shrine (Tōtennō Okazaki-jinja), and rabbit statues can be found all around the grounds. It’s also beloved as a popular power spot in Kyoto, particularly among women.
In this guide, we’ll cover Okazaki Shrine’s history, top highlights, and how to get there.
What Is Okazaki Shrine (Kyoto)?
History and Origins
Okazaki Shrine is said to have been founded in Enryaku 13 (794), around the time Kyoto became the imperial capital.
Because it lies to the east (the rabbit direction) of the old capital, it came to be called “Higashi Tennō” and has long been worshipped as a shrine for warding off misfortune and bad directions.
The enshrined deities are Susanō-no-Mikoto (素戔嗚尊), Kushiinada-hime-no-Mikoto (奇稲田姫命), and their children—the eight deities (三女五男八柱御子神).
Because they are a married pair along with eight child deities, the shrine is believed to bring blessings for safe childbirth, fertility, and matchmaking.
It’s also said that this area was once a habitat for wild rabbits, which led to rabbits being regarded as the shrine’s sacred messengers.
Rabbits—known for their prolific nature—are also revered here as a symbol of fertility and children.
Top Things to See at Okazaki Shrine
Rabbit Messengers and the Koma-Usagi Guardian Rabbits
The shrine’s most distinctive feature is that rabbits are enshrined as divine messengers.
In front of the main hall, you’ll find the rare koma-usagi (guardian rabbit statues) seated in the “a-un” pair—something uncommon even across Japan.
They’re said to bring blessings when you gently stroke them: pat the head for wisdom, or touch the part of the body you’re concerned about to pray for recovery.
Beyond these guardian rabbits, rabbit carvings are hidden throughout the grounds—on lanterns, transoms, and more—so be sure to look for them.
Fertility Rabbit Statue
At the purification fountain (chōzuya), a statue known as the “fertility rabbit” is enshrined.
It’s said that pouring water over it and praying while rubbing its belly brings blessings for fertility and safe childbirth—so many visitors stop here to offer prayers.
Rabbit Omikuji and Shrine Amulets
One of Okazaki Shrine’s most popular items is the rabbit omikuji (fortune slip).
The fortune is tucked inside an adorable rabbit-shaped ceramic figure, making it a favorite souvenir and travel keepsake.
In front of the main hall, many rabbit omikuji are offered back to the shrine, creating a colorful and charming display.
In addition, you’ll find a wide variety of items such as rabbit-themed amulets for safe childbirth and matchmaking.
Torii Gate and Worship Hall
Okazaki Shrine’s vivid vermilion torii gate sets a solemn tone from the approach on Marutamachi-dori.
The worship hall’s carvings are intricately detailed, letting you feel the weight of a history spanning more than 1,200 years.
Okazaki Shrine Visitor Information
Address and Visiting Hours
Address: 51 Okazaki Higashi Tennō-chō, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Visiting is generally recommended during daytime hours.
Admission to the shrine grounds is free.
If you wish to request a formal prayer (gokitō), please check the procedure and offering fee (hatsuho-ryō) at the shrine office.
For details and prayer reception times, contact the shrine office in advance (TEL: 075-771-1963).
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Okazaki Shrine is by bus.
Get off at the Kyoto City Bus stop “Okazaki Jinja-mae” (Routes 32, 93, 105, 203, 204), and it’s about a 1-minute walk.
It’s also just a few minutes on foot from the “Higashi Tennō-chō” bus stop.
By train/subway, it’s about a 15–20 minute walk from Keage Station (Kyoto Subway Tōzai Line), or about 20 minutes from Jingū-Marutamachi Station (Keihan Line).
Roads around the area can get congested, so public transportation is a stress-free option.
Tips to Avoid Crowds
Okazaki Shrine can get especially busy during the Year of the Rabbit.
Weekends, public holidays, and “Inu-no-hi” (a lucky day for safe-childbirth prayers) may be crowded, so visiting on a weekday morning is ideal for a calmer experience.
Things to Do Near Okazaki Shrine
Heian Shrine
About a 10-minute walk from Okazaki Shrine is Heian Shrine (Heian-jingū).
Founded in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto becoming the capital, it’s known for its massive vermilion torii and expansive gardens.
After your visit, why not add Heian Shrine to your Kyoto itinerary?
Nanzen-ji Temple
Nanzen-ji (Nanzen-ji), on the way from Keage Station, is also well worth a stop.
As the head temple of the Nanzen-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism, it features highlights like the imposing Sanmon gate and the brick Suirokaku aqueduct.
In the autumn foliage season (mid to late November), the scenery is especially beautiful and draws many visitors.
Konkai Kōmyō-ji Temple (Kurodani-san)
Located very close to Okazaki Shrine, Konkai Kōmyō-ji (Konkai Kōmyō-ji) is a major head temple of Jōdo Buddhism.
In the late Edo period, it served as the headquarters of the Aizu Domain’s Kyoto Shoshidai forces, and special openings may be held depending on the season.
Summary
Okazaki Shrine is an important Kyoto spot for those praying for safe childbirth, fertility, and matchmaking—and it’s a venerable shrine said to date back to 794.
With highlights like the guardian rabbit statues, the fertility rabbit statue, and the adorable rabbit omikuji, it’s affectionately known as Kyoto’s “rabbit shrine.”
It’s also easy to access—about a 1-minute walk from the “Okazaki Jinja-mae” bus stop—and pairs nicely with nearby sightseeing such as Heian Shrine and Nanzen-ji.
When you’re in Kyoto, be sure to stop by.
