Awata Shrine

Awata Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located on a hillside at the eastern entrance to Kyoto. For centuries, travelers departing the capital along the Tokaido Road stopped here to pray for a safe journey, earning the shrine a reputation as Kyoto’s guardian of travel and protection from misfortune.

Although it is only a short walk from Chion-in Temple and Heian Shrine, the shrine enjoys a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by trees. After climbing the long stone staircase, visitors are rewarded with quiet grounds and pleasant views over eastern Kyoto.

History

Awata Shrine is believed to have been founded in 876 and enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Onamuchi-no-Mikoto. Historically known as Awata Tenno-gu, it was closely associated with Yasaka Shrine and played an important role in prayers for protection from epidemics.

Because the shrine stood beside the eastern gateway of Kyoto, it became a traditional place where travelers prayed before beginning journeys along the Tokaido and Tosando highways. Its annual Awata Festival, famous for its impressive sword-shaped festival floats (Kenboko), preserves one of Kyoto’s oldest festival traditions and is often regarded as a predecessor of the Gion Festival.

Highlights

Shrine of Safe Travels

Visit the historic shrine where travelers prayed before leaving Kyoto for eastern Japan.

Awata Festival

Experience one of Kyoto’s oldest festivals, featuring the distinctive Kenboko procession every October.

Stone Staircase and Scenic Setting

Climb the atmospheric approach to enjoy peaceful surroundings and views over the city.

Quiet Shrine Grounds

Escape the crowds while visiting one of Higashiyama’s lesser-known historic shrines.

Popular Travel Amulets

Many visitors come to receive charms for safe journeys, traffic safety, and protection from misfortune.

Visit Tips

The approach includes a fairly long flight of stone steps, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Early morning is the best time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and photograph the shrine without crowds.

Awata Shrine is easily combined with visits to Chion-in, Shoren-in, Heian Shrine, and the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art. If you visit in October, don’t miss the Awata Festival, which offers a rare opportunity to see Kyoto’s historic Kenboko procession.