Shimogamo Shrine | Strolling from Kamo River Delta to Tadasu no Mori – A UNESCO World Heritage Tourist Spot & Hidden Gem

The Kamo Mioya Shrine, commonly known as Shimogamo Shrine, is a famous tourist attraction in Kyoto City, surrounded by lush greenery despite its central location. It is registered as one of the "Cultural Properties of Ancient Kyoto," a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Within its grounds lies Tadasu no Mori, a forest where the contrast between vibrant greenery and the striking red shrine buildings creates a breathtaking sight. Throughout the seasons, Shimogamo Shrine showcases different scenic charms and has been cherished by Kyoto locals for centuries. Let’s explore its unique features, must-see attractions, and hidden gems.

1. What is Shimogamo Shrine?

Shimogamo Shrine is a shrine located in the northeastern part of Kyoto, at the confluence of the Kamo and Takano Rivers, an area commonly called the "Kamo River Delta." It has a long history, and according to legend, its enshrined deity descended during the reign of Emperor Jimmu, the first emperor of Japan. For centuries, it was highly revered by the Imperial Court, and in 1994, it was designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site as part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

Stretching northward from the Kamo River Delta, visitors will find Tadasu no Mori, an ancient forest-lined path leading straight to the shrine. Along the way, smaller sub-shrines and historical landmarks can be explored. Shimogamo Shrine is not only beloved by Kyoto locals but also attracts numerous domestic and international tourists.

2. Shimogamo Shrine, Kamigamo Shrine, and the Aoi Festival

About 3 km north of Shimogamo Shrine, upstream along the Kamo River, lies Kamigamo Shrine. Both shrines are dedicated to the Kamo family deities, collectively known as the "Kamo Shrines."
While Shimogamo Shrine is surrounded by dense forests, Kamigamo Shrine features an open landscape with lush green lawns, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

The Aoi Festival (葵祭, Aoi Matsuri) is one of Kyoto’s three major festivals and serves as the main festival of the Kamo Shrines. One of its highlights is the "Saiō-Dai Misogi no Gi," a purification ritual that alternates annually between Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine.
This grand festival features a procession of people in Heian-era attire, sacred ceremonies, and traditional Kyoto customs, preserving the rich heritage of Japan’s imperial past.

3. "Kamo" and "Kamo" – Why Are the Kanji Different?

Have you ever wondered why the kanji for "Kamo" is different in Shimogamo Shrine (下鴨神社) and Kamigamo Shrine (上賀茂神社)?

The Kamo River (賀茂川) flows from the northern part of Kyoto towards the south and merges with the Takano River at the Kamo River Delta. When the two rivers meet, they become the Kamo River (鴨川). The image was taken from Kamo Bridge on Imadegawa Street, showing the Kamo River Delta. To the left is Kamo River (賀茂川), and to the right is Takano River. The lush greenery beyond the Kamo River Delta is Shimogamo Shrine.

The unified Kamo River continues flowing southward from Kamo Bridge, passing under Sanjo Bridge and Shijo Bridge before joining the Yodo River, eventually emptying into Osaka Bay.

4. The Vast Ancient Forest of "Tadasu no Mori"

Surrounding the approach to Shimogamo Shrine is the ancient forest known as Tadasu no Mori. Spanning an area equivalent to three Tokyo Domes, this forest is designated as a National Historic Site. It has long been cherished by people and is mentioned in many classic literary works, including the Shin Kokin Wakashū, Makura no Sōshi, and The Tale of Genji. Even today, it retains the atmosphere of its historical past.

The towering trees along the path remain lush and vibrant, making you forget you are in the city. Flowing through the forest are streams like Izumi River and Seme no Ogawa, creating a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere. In autumn, the forest glows with fiery red maple leaves, while in winter, it is beautifully covered in snow, offering breathtaking scenery in every season.

5. Shimogamo Shrine's Most Notable Attraction: East Main Hall & West Main Hall

The main hall of Shimogamo Shrine is designed in the "nagare-zukuri" architectural style, with two halls standing side by side in the east and west. The West Main Hall enshrines Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto, while the East Main Hall enshrines Tamayorihime no Mikoto. Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto is the deity who founded ancient Kyoto and is revered as its guardian deity. It is said that prayers were also held at Shimogamo Shrine during the construction of the Heian capital.

There is a legend that Kamo Taketsunumi no Mikoto transformed into Yatagarasu (a three-legged crow) and guided Emperor Jimmu to victory. Because of this, the deity is worshipped as the god of guidance and victory, offering blessings for protection against misfortune, warding off evil, travel safety, and passing exams. Tamayorihime no Mikoto, the mother of Emperor Jimmu, is regarded as the guardian deity of women and is believed to bring blessings for beauty, matchmaking, safe childbirth, and child-rearing.

These two main halls are designated National Treasures, and every 21 years, they undergo the Shikinen Sengu, a sacred relocation for restoration. Other notable sights include the 舞殿 (Mai-den), where ceremonies are held and large ema (wooden plaques) are displayed at the beginning of the year, and the 桜門 (Sakuramon), a bright red gate with corridors extending east and west. In addition, 31 other shrine structures have been designated as Important Cultural Properties, each carrying a deep historical and noble atmosphere.

6. The Origin of Mitarashi Dango: Inoue Shrine

A subordinate shrine of Shimogamo Shrine, Inoue Shrine, is said to be the birthplace of Mitarashi Dango. It is also known for one of Shimogamo Shrine's Seven Mysteries, where, on the Day of the Ox in midsummer, water is said to spring from Mitarashi Pond in front of the shrine. Every year, for four days before and after the Day of the Ox in July, the Mitarashi Festival is held, where people pray for good health by dipping their feet into the sacred water.

The bubbles that rise from the bottom of this pond are said to have inspired the shape of Mitarashi Dango, the beloved traditional Japanese sweet.

7. Guardian Deity of Birth Year – Kotosha at Shimogamo Shrine

In front of the main hall, there are seven small shrines called "Kotosha," each enshrining a guardian deity of the twelve zodiac signs. Although the deities have different names, they are all manifestations of Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, who is believed to have seven different names representing his various divine roles. When visiting, be sure to worship at the shrine that corresponds to your zodiac sign.

Every year, on Coming of Age Day in January, the First Ōkuni Eto Festival, and the Autumn Festival in October, many worshippers gather to pray.

8. Sacred Place of Beauty – Kawai Shrine

Located in the southwest corner of Tadasu no Mori, Kawai Shrine is a sub-shrine of Shimogamo Shrine and enshrines Tamayorihime-no-Mikoto, the mother of Emperor Jimmu. She has long been revered as the ideal model of Japanese women, making Kawai Shrine a sacred place for female beauty and protection.

One of the most famous features of Kawai Shrine is the “Mirror Ema.” These hand mirror-shaped votive plaques, which feature a face illustration, are decorated using one's own makeup before being offered at the shrine. Visitors can enjoy seeing a variety of beautifully designed Mirror Ema.

At Kawai Shrine, you can also try "Bijin-sui," a beauty-enhancing drink made from karin (quince) harvested at Shimogamo Shrine and sacred water. Quince is rich in Vitamin C and polyphenols, both essential for healthy skin. May you stay beautiful and youthful!

9. Aioi-sha, the Sacred Shrine of Love and Destined Bonds

Aioi-sha (相生社), a small shrine located near the Romon (tower gate), is one of the subordinate shrines of Shimogamo Shrine. It enshrines "Kami no Musubi no Kami" (神皇産豊神), the deity of relationships and blessings.

Beside this shrine stands a mysterious sacred tree known as "Renri no Sakaki" (連理の賢木), which is considered one of Kyoto’s Seven Wonders. It is believed that this tree symbolizes relationships and fate due to the divine power of the god of Aioi-sha. This sacred tree continues to grow mysteriously, representing the connection of destined ties.

At Aioi-sha, visitors can offer ema (絵馬), wooden plaques for prayers. These ema come with red and white cords, which must be tied firmly while making a wish for a blessed relationship.

10. Must-Try Sweets at Shimogamo Shrine

◆ The Origin of Mitarashi Dango – Kamo Mitarashi Chaya

One of the must-try sweets at Shimogamo Shrine is mitarashi dango, and this is where it all began. Located along the western path leading to the shrine, "Kamo Mitarashi Chaya" is a famous shop known as the birthplace of mitarashi dango, serving customers since 1922.

Here, mitarashi dango is made fresh from glutinous rice and grilled only upon order, ensuring a warm, chewy texture in every bite. The lightly sweetened syrup made from honey and sugar perfectly complements the smoky aroma of the grilled dumplings.

Each skewer contains five dango, symbolizing the five parts of the human body, believed to offer protection against evil spirits.

◆ Kyoto’s No.1 Mame Mochi: Demachi Futaba

Demachi Futaba is located just across the Demachi Bridge on the southwest side of Kamo River Delta. This long-established shop, founded in 1899 (Meiji 32), is famous for its mame mochi. The mame mochi is made with glutinous rice from Gōshū, mixed with red peas, and filled with smooth red bean paste. The perfect balance between the slightly salty skin and the mildly sweet filling makes it an irresistible treat. It is the most popular mame mochi in Kyoto, so expect long lines, especially on weekends. However, it’s worth the wait!

◎ Access to Shimogamo Shrine

By Train

The easiest way to reach Shimogamo Shrine is by taking the Keihan Railway to Demachiyanagi Station. From there, it’s just a 10-minute walk through the scenic Tadasu no Mori forest. If you need to transfer to Keihan, take the Tozai Subway Line to Sanjo Station, then switch to Keihan Sanjo Station. If traveling via Hankyu Railway, get off at Kawaramachi Station, cross Kamo River, and transfer to Keihan. From Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line, board a train to Demachiyanagi Station and get off.

By Bus

The nearest bus stops to Shimogamo Shrine are "Shimogamo Shrine-mae" and "Tadasu no Mori." From Kyoto Station, take City Bus No. 205 or No. 4, and get off at either stop. Alternatively, you can walk from the Kawaramachi-Imadegawa bus stop, a major transit hub with multiple routes.

By Car

If driving, head north from Kawaramachi-Imadegawa intersection, cross Aoi Bridge, and turn right at the fourth traffic light to find a parking lot. Look for a Lawson convenience store on your left—it’s your landmark before making the turn.

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Shimogamo Shrine | Strolling from Kamo River Delta to Tadasu no Mori – A UNESCO World Heritage Tourist Spot & Hidden Gem