Kamigamo Shrine (Kamo Wakakazuchi Shrine)

Overview

Kamigamo Shrine, located in Kyoto's Kita Ward, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and known as the guardian deity of Heian-kyo. Its founding dates back to the 7th century, and it has been a focal point of faith for centuries. The grounds are lush and offer beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. Especially stunning are the cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn foliage, attracting many visitors. The precinct houses many historic structures including the main hall (honden), secondary hall (kondō), offering hall (haiden), and dance hall (maiden). The honden and kondō, rebuilt in 1863, are designated National Treasures. The grounds also contain numerous subsidiary shrines (sessha) and branch shrines (massha), each with its own history and cultural significance. Kamigamo Shrine is a place of tranquility and beauty, a harmonious blend of history and nature. Be sure to visit if you're in Kyoto.