Have you ever heard of Saginomori Shrine, nestled in the heart of Kyoto, a place steeped in history and beauty?
Saginomori Shrine, meaning “Heron’s Forest”, is a place of serenity and ancient spirituality. The site is believed to be over 1000 years old, established during the beginning of the Heian Period in a different location at the foot of Mount Hiei. The shrine served as a guardian deity of the surrounding villages before relocating to its current location in 1689. The shrine is devoted to Susanoo-no-mikoto, brother of the sun-goddess Amaterasu, who is said to have resided here.
The path leading to the shrine is a journey through time itself. Imagine walking through a forest path enclosed by aged trees, their branches reaching towards the sky. Majestic trees adorn the shrine grounds, whispering tales of a history rooted in the very essence of Japan.
The southern entrance boasts an ancient stone bridge, once a part of the elegant Shugakuin Villa. Emperors frequented this bridge, seeking a tranquil space to relax. Today, this same bridge paves the way for everyday visitors – the shortcut to the Manshu-in Temple.
A unique feature of this ancient shrine is a collection of ema votive tablets–one for each of the 12 zodiac animals. The shrine has a large yaegaki stone wall, a wall made from eight stones. Legend has it that touching this wall can bring good marital and romantic relationships.
Within its peaceful atmosphere, Saginomori Shrine is a reminder of long-forgotten traditions, a testament to the enduring spirit of faith, and an invitation to find peace amidst the urban bustle.