The Spiritual Beauty of Kibune Shrine

Kibune Shrine, located in northern Kyoto along the Kibune River, boasts a history of approximately 1,300 years. It is dedicated to the water deity Takaokami-no-Kami and the matchmaking goddess Iwanaga-hime-no-Mikoto. Famous for its stone stairway adorned with red lanterns and its unique water fortune-telling, the shrine is a popular destination for those seeking good luck and romantic connections. During summer, visitors can enjoy riverbed dining (around ¥5,000) and flowing somen noodles (¥1,500), offering a refreshing experience. Situated in Kurama Kibune Town, Kibune Shrine was established in 677 (the sixth year of the Hakuhō era). As the head shrine of approximately 2,000 water deity shrines across Japan, it enshrines Takaokami-no-Kami and Iwanaga-hime-no-Mikoto. Located by the Kibune River, the source of the Kamo River, and directly north of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, it has been revered by successive imperial courts as the "Guardian of Kyoto's Water Source." Since the Heian period, the shrine has been a bustling spiritual hub. Legend has it that Princess Tamayorihime traveled by a yellow boat along the Yodo River and Kamo River to the Kibune River to establish the shrine. The "Boat-shaped Stone" in the inner shrine is said to be her transformed vessel. Visitors can experience water fortune-telling by immersing a blank fortune paper into sacred water, where hidden text appears to reveal one's fortune (¥200, includes multilingual QR code translation). This unique and mystical practice is highly regarded. • Tanabata Lantern Festival: The pathway lanterns and bamboo decorations are illuminated, creating a romantic atmosphere. Visitors can write their wishes on bamboo strips (¥100). • Autumn Foliage Illumination: With 3,000 maple trees lit up alongside lanterns, the streets of Kibune transform into a dreamlike spectacle. • Ushimitsu Worship: Legend speaks of a mysterious curse ritual (Iron Ring Sorcery) performed during the "Ushimitsu" hours (1-3 AM). While modern worship focuses on blessings, this adds an intriguing layer of mystique to the shrine.