Kamigamo Shrine

Kamigamo Shrine Kyoto - Kamigamo Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan and is a World Heritage Site. Kamigamo Shrine, is part of pair of shrines known as the The Kamo Shrines, consisting of Kamigamo Jinja (上賀茂神社, lit. Upper Kamo Shrine) and Shimogamo Jinja (下鴨神社, lit. Lower Kamo Shrine). While they are a pair of shrines, they are not located together, but are around 2Km apart. They are among the oldest shrines in the Japan. Both shrines are dedicated to Kamo Wake-ikazuchi, the kami of thunder, and both feature prominently in the Aoi Festival, which occurs in May and involves a procession between the two shrines, horse races, and archery. Along with several other shrines, temples and castles in the city, they figure among the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto” designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Kamigamo Shrine (Upper Kamo Shrine) is the more recently founded of the pair, dating most likely from the 7th century. It is famous for its Haiden (worship hall), rebuilt in 1628. A number of priests’ residences are situated on its grounds, and one, the Nishimura House, is open to the public. Kamigamo Shrine is also known as “Kamowakeikazuchi Shrine” (賀茂別雷神社, kamowakeikazuchi jinja). Its two large conical sand mounds memorialize the holy trees that once served to welcome spirits. Kyoto Hotel Looking for Kyoto Accommodation? Please support our site by using our Kyoto Hotel reservation system. (Article based on Wikipedia article and used under the GNU Free Documentation License) | | |