A quiet Momoyama-style shrine in moss-covered grounds in sacred Mt. Kurama
Yuki-jinja Shrine, located at a steep slope in Kurama on the north side of Kyoto, was established to protect the northern quarter of the city from evil influences. It stands at the base of Mt. Kurama, a quiet place for worshipping with fewer tourists.
The main and front shrines are from the Momoyama Period (1568-1598). The front shrine built in a rare style called “Warihai-den” (with a passage at the center of the shrine) is an Important Cultural Property.
In the precincts, There are over 800 years old cedar trees, and an ancient stone lantern. Its mossy and rustic appearance is very picturesque.
The Shrine is famous for being the site of the Kurama Fire Festival, which helds on October 22 every year, and is one of Kyoto’s three eccentric festivals. About 500 pine tree torches are lit and paraded along the streets of Kurama up to the shrine along with portable shrines. It is a very spectacular with the spirit of ancient times.
Events
Kurama Fire Festival
Address: 1073 Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 601-1111
Access : Take the Eizan Kurama Line from Demachi-Yanagi station to Kurama station. ( takes 30 minutes and costs 420 yen. Trains depart every 15-20 minutes.
Hours : 9:00 to 16:30
Admission : 200 yen at Sanmon gate of Kurama-dera for protection of the mountain
Benefit : Keep evil away, Safe birth, Love, Good health, Luck-boosting