Dreaming of goddesses protecting you from evil spirits? Ichihime Shrine is the place. It is a rare gem in Kyoto. The shrine is known for its goddesses. They are believed to protect women.
Ichihime Shrine is located off Kawaramachi Street. It sits south of Gojo Street. This small shrine is dedicated to female deities. The deities are known for granting women’s wishes. Women from all over Japan visit. They seek blessings and protection here.
The shrine has protected the market since the Heian Period. This is where part of its name comes from. Every month except August and October features a festival. Ichihime Shrine appears in Japanese classical literature. It is even mentioned in “The Tales of Genji”.
I learned about Ichihime Shrine during the Kyoto 16 Shrine Red Seal Tour. Helpful signs guide visitors from Kawaramachi Street. The main hall is where women reserve a purification ceremony. A Shinto priest performs it. It is meant to ward off bad luck.
Behind the main hall are wooden prayer plates. These ema display wishes. Small shrines dot the area. Amenomanai is one of Kyoto’s seven famous water spots. Its water flows from a spout. It has been used for the Emperor’s first bath. Now it is used for tea ceremonies. It is used for flower exhibits and book fairs.
Legend says a heartfelt wish comes true if you drink this water. You must put your hands together in prayer. Above the water basin are princess fortunes. They are called hime-mikuji. This fortune is in the form of a female doll. It hopes for a happy future for girls.
You can buy charms at the shrine entrance. There is also a booth outside on Kawaramachi Street. The women’s good luck charm costs 800 yen. It protects women in all ways.
Ichihime Shrine is small enough to explore fully. It is easily accessible from Gojo Station. It is known to be female-friendly.
Ichihime Shrine enshrines goddesses of water. Goddesses of rivers and the ocean are enshrined here. There is also a goddess of farming. And of course there is a goddess of matchmaking. All the goddesses are said to be beautiful.
Many wishes on the boards ask for marriage and a healthy baby. The sacred water fountain is called Ame-no-manai. Write your wish then drink from the fountain. Pray with your hands together. Your wish might come true.
The Hime Mikuji is a highlight. It is a princess fortune-slip. Pick one up at the entrance. Its gentle face makes you feel relaxed. The fortune slip comes from the bottom. Write your wish on it. Leave it at the shrine or take it home.
Ichihime Shrine is a rare spot. It offers protection and blessings for women. Remember Ichihime Shrine for good luck and peace.