Surprisingly Unknown! 5 Power Spots in Kyoto That Will Boost Your Fortune

Kyoto Prefecture is visited by many tourists throughout the year. In addition to visiting shrines and temples, there are many other tourist attractions and delicious foods to enjoy. In spring, you can experience cherry blossoms, and in autumn, the colorful leaves—making it a place where you can truly feel the changing seasons. Kyoto cherishes the spirit of traditional "Wa" (Japanese harmony), and even Japanese people themselves are often captivated by the scenery and cuisine. Did you know that among these many places, there are also numerous power spots believed to offer spiritual energy?
If you visit without knowing their background, you’re missing out! So this time, we will introduce some of the most powerful spiritual locations among Kyoto’s famous tourist sites. Let us share with you the charms of these sacred places that purify the heart and significantly boost your fortune.

1. Mikane Shrine - Marked by a Golden Torii Gate

Mikane Shrine is located in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto City. It may appear small, tucked between tall buildings, but when seen up close, the presence of its golden torii gate is captivating. This shrine is renowned in Kyoto as a powerful spiritual spot believed to bring financial luck.
Its exterior—especially the torii gate and the bell rope—gleams in golden hues, enhancing the sacred atmosphere that honors wealth and prosperity. Many people visit to pray for luck, particularly in hopes of winning the lottery. Even the ema (votive plaques) are charmingly designed to resemble ginkgo leaves! Why not write your dreams on one of them?

2. Don’t Give Up! If You Wish, It Will Come True — Suzumushi Temple

Known as the Suzumushi Temple because the sound of bell crickets (suzumushi) can be heard all year round regardless of the season, this temple is located in Arashiyama, Kyoto. Arashiyama itself is a famous tourist destination, and knowing there’s a shrine with spiritual power there makes you want to visit even more.
The temple is believed to bring blessings such as academic success and prosperous business. However, it's most known for a simple belief — if you make a single wish for the Jizo statue, it will come true! Among all wishes, the most commonly fulfilled is “success in love.” After purchasing a Kōfuku Omamori (happiness amulet), you should make your wish clearly to the Jizo, stating what you want, and include your name and address. It is said that doing this increases the chance your wish will be granted.
This is a recommended power spot for anyone who has someone in their heart or is wishing to find love.

3. Discover More Charms at Fushimi Inari Taisha – Kyoto’s Famous Power Spot

Fushimi Inari Taisha is renowned for its mesmerizing “Senbon Torii” or Thousand Torii Gates, making it one of the most iconic shrines in Kyoto. This sacred destination attracts not only Japanese worshippers but also thousands of international tourists annually. Known as a powerful spiritual spot, Fushimi Inari is believed to be a source of immense positive energy.
Aside from the vermilion torii gates, visitors associate this shrine with fox statues (messengers of Inari) and the mystical “Omokaru Stone.” Venture deeper into the shrine grounds, and you’ll find the Kumataka-sha, a smaller shrine dedicated to deities of success and prosperity in business. Many believe that this spot grants divine favor for bold ventures or “one-shot victories.” Numerous visitors have reported feeling an overwhelming spiritual presence here. If you’re chasing a life-changing opportunity or want to boost your luck before an important event, consider paying your respects at this powerful site.

4. Yuki Shrine – A Sacred Site Worshipped by Toyotomi Hideyoshi

Located in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, Yuki Shrine is revered for its numerous blessings and is considered one of the city's prominent spiritual power spots. At the heart of its sacred energy stands an awe-inspiring sacred cedar tree, believed to be over 800 years old. Often referred to as the “Goshinboku Osugi” (Divine Cedar) or “Wish-Granting Cedar,” this towering tree continues to bless visitors with good fortune.
Yuki Shrine offers various benefits including safe childbirth, romantic relationships, fire protection, business prosperity, and recovery from illness. It enshrines a fire deity, making it especially effective for protection against fire disasters. The majestic size of the ancient cedar alone is enough to leave visitors breathless. Historical records state that even the famous warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi was a devout believer of this shrine.

5. The Power of Pure Water – Otowa no Taki

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the most popular tourist spots in Kyoto. As you follow the visitor route, you’ll encounter “Otowa no Taki,” a site where three waterfalls flow. Did you know that many visitors line up just to drink from these waterfalls because each stream is believed to grant a different blessing? It is, in fact, a highly regarded spiritual power spot.
It is said that drinking the water using a ladle or standing under the waterfall brings blessings. Facing the waterfall, each stream—right to left—offers a different benefit: health, academic success, and love/marriage. However, drinking from all three is considered greedy and is believed to nullify the blessings, so you must choose just one. Think about your wish and line up accordingly to absorb its power.

◎ Summary of Kyoto’s Must-See Spiritual and Healing Destinations

Kyoto Prefecture is brimming with sacred power spots and peaceful retreats that continue to enchant travelers. With its rich cultural heritage and serene environments, Kyoto is a top destination for those seeking spiritual rejuvenation and traditional Japanese experiences. From historic temples to natural wonders, there’s no shortage of attractions that provide healing and inspiration.
For sightseeing, consider purchasing a one-day unlimited travel pass—it’s a convenient and cost-effective way to explore Kyoto’s many highlights. And when it comes to food, Kyoto is a gourmet paradise offering a variety of delicious local specialties that reflect centuries of culinary tradition.
Foreign tourists are consistently moved by Kyoto’s well-preserved historic districts, where the charm of old Japan still lives on in its wooden machiya houses and narrow stone-paved streets. For city dwellers overwhelmed by modern skyscrapers, Kyoto is an ideal escape—perfect for those longing to reconnect with tradition, tranquility, and nature.
Kyoto is your destination. Surrounded by lush landscapes and filled with serene spiritual sites, Kyoto promises a calming and culturally rich journey that soothes the soul and delights the senses.