Kamigamo Shrine, officially known as Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine, was formally established in the 7th century, with spiritual origins dating back to the 6th century—long before Kyoto became Japan’s imperial capital in 794. Located in northern Kyoto, it is revered as the “Upper Kamo Shrine,” paired with Shimogamo Shrine (the Lower Kamo Shrine). Together, the two shrines were believed to spiritually protect the ancient capital from the north.

In 1994, Kamigamo Shrine was inscribed as one of the 17 properties of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto (Kyoto, Uji and Otsu Cities)”, recognized for preserving early Shinto sacred landscapes, ritual continuity, and architectural authenticity.

The Thunder Deity

The shrine is dedicated to Kamo Wake-ikazuchi, the Shinto god of thunder and lightning. In modern times, this ancient belief resonates strongly with visitors working in electrical engineering, telecommunications, and IT, who come to pray for protection against lightning strikes, power outages, and system failures.

Tatesuna Sand Cones & Hosodono Hall

Kamigamo’s most iconic feature is the pair of white sand cones known as Tatesuna (“standing sand”), located directly in front of the Hosodono Hall—a structure historically used by emperors or imperial messengers as a waiting or ceremonial space. Their placement highlights the shrine’s strong connection to the imperial court.

• The cones symbolize Mount Koyama, the sacred mountain approximately 2 kilometers north of the shrine where the deity is believed to have descended to earth.

• Pine needles placed at the peaks function as spiritual “antennas,” guiding the deity.

• The left cone holds three needles and the right two, representing the balance of Yin and Yang.

• These sand mounds are considered the origin of kiyome-no-suna (purification sand), still used today in Japanese construction and ground-breaking rituals.

Sacred Architecture (Shaden)

The shrine’s Main Hall (Honden) and Inner Hall (Gonden) are both designated National Treasures of Japan. Built in the Nagare-zukuri architectural style—the most common form of Shinto shrine design—Kamigamo’s halls are widely regarded as the finest and most refined examples of this style, embodying balance, elegance, and sacred restraint.

Aoi Symbol & Festivals

The shrine’s crest is the heart-shaped Futaba Aoi (two-leaf hollyhock), visible throughout the grounds in carvings, decorations, and talismans. According to legend, the deity promised to descend when people adorned themselves with these leaves—giving rise to the name Aoi Matsuri.

Held annually on May 15, the Aoi Matsuri is one of Kyoto’s three greatest festivals. A grand Heian-period procession dressed in aristocratic costumes travels across the city before concluding at Kamigamo Shrine, creating a living scene from over a thousand years ago.

Another rare tradition is Karasu-zumo (Crow Sumo), held in September, where priests symbolically imitate crow movements before children participate in sumo matches—reflecting ancient agricultural prayers and folklore.

Atmosphere & Grounds

Unlike many central Kyoto shrines dominated by gravel paths, Kamigamo Shrine features expansive green lawns and an open, tranquil atmosphere. Flowing through the grounds is the crystal-clear Nara-no-ogawa Stream, traditionally used for purification rituals (misogi) and seasonal ceremonies.

• City Bus: Get off at Kamigamo-jinja-mae

• Subway: Karasuma Line to Kitaōji Station, then a 15-minute walk

• Taxi: Approximately 25–30 minutes from Kyoto Station

• Visit early in the morning for the most serene experience

• Don’t miss the Nara-no-ogawa Stream, a key ritual site within the grounds

• Visit Kataoka-sha, a sub-shrine dedicated to matchmaking and marriage luck, famously visited by Murasaki Shikibu, author of The Tale of Genji

Admission Fee

• Free entry
  (Inner sanctuary or special tours: approx. 500 yen)

Opening Time:

• Shrine Grounds: from 5:30 AM

• Shrine Office: 8:00 AM – 4:45 PM
  (Hours may vary by season)