Yasui Konpiragu Shrine

Overview

Yasui Konpiragu Shrine is located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto. Formally known as "Yasui Konpiragu," it was once called "Fuji-dera." Tradition holds that its origins lie in a Buddhist hall built during the reign of Emperor Tenchi by Fujiwara no Kamatari, who prayed for the prosperity of the Fujiwara clan. During the Heian period, Emperor Sutoku visited frequently, even housing his favored lady-in-waiting, Awa Naishi, at Fuji-dera. After losing the Hogen Rebellion, Emperor Sutoku was exiled to Sanuki Province, where he passed away. Awa Naishi then enshrined a portrait of the Emperor at Fuji-dera's Kannon-do hall, built a mound, and buried his hair, events considered the foundation of Yasui Konpiragu. In 1177, during a visit by Daien-hosshi, Emperor Sutoku's spirit appeared. Consequently, by Imperial decree from Emperor Go-Shirakawa, Komyoin Kanshoji Temple, dedicated to Emperor Sutoku, was constructed between 1275 and 1277. Although ravaged by the Onin War, it was restored in 1497 by Yukimori, who held a memorial service for Emperor Sutoku. In 1695, the Rengekoin temple in Uzumasa-Yasui relocated here, placing Komyoin Kanshoji under its control, before eventually falling into ruin. Following the Meiji Restoration's separation of Shinto and Buddhism, Rengekoin was abolished and reorganized as Yasui Shrine. The enshrined deity, Kumbira Gongen, was changed to Ōmononushi-no-kami. In 1873, it was designated a village shrine (Murasha), and in 1882, it was promoted to a district shrine (Gosha). After World War II, it adopted its present name, "Yasui Konpiragu Shrine." Yasui Konpiragu Shrine holds significant historical value as a place dedicated to Emperor Sutoku. However, in recent years, it's become renowned as an "enkiri jinja" (fate-severing shrine). The "Enkiri Enmusubi Ishi" (fate-severing and fate-binding stone) within the shrine grounds is a popular power spot for severing bad relationships and fostering good ones. Many visitors write their wishes on wooden plaques and affix them to the stone. Yasui Konpiragu Shrine is a captivating shrine where history and faith intertwine. Make sure to visit during your Kyoto sightseeing trip.