Imamiya Shrine

Imamiya Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine in northern Kyoto, renowned for prayers for good health, protection from illness, and longevity. Founded more than a thousand years ago during a devastating epidemic, the shrine continues to attract worshippers seeking protection, happiness, and good fortune.

The shrine is also famous for the traditional Yasurai Festival, one of Kyoto’s three most unusual festivals, and for the centuries-old aburi mochi shops lining its approach, where visitors can enjoy one of Kyoto’s most beloved local specialties.

History

Imamiya Shrine was established in 994 during a widespread epidemic in Kyoto. The shrine was created to pray for the end of disease and the well-being of the city’s residents before being relocated to its present site in 1001.

The shrine enshrines several Shinto deities associated with health, prosperity, longevity, and protection. Throughout its history, it has been widely worshipped as a place to pray for freedom from illness and misfortune.

Imamiya Shrine is also closely associated with Keishoin, the mother of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the fifth Tokugawa shogun. Born into a modest Kyoto family, she later became one of the most influential women of the Edo period and generously supported the shrine’s reconstruction. Because of her remarkable rise in status, Imamiya Shrine is affectionately known as the “Bride of Fortune Shrine,” attracting visitors who pray for successful marriages and good fortune.

Highlights

Main Sanctuary

Visit the historic shrine dedicated to health, longevity, and protection from misfortune.

Yasurai Festival

Experience one of Kyoto’s three unique traditional festivals, recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.

Aburi Mochi

Taste Kyoto’s famous roasted rice cakes at the historic teahouses lining the shrine approach.

Shrine of Good Fortune

Pray for success, happiness, and marriage at the shrine associated with Keishoin’s inspiring life story.

Peaceful Shrine Grounds

Enjoy a relaxing visit surrounded by traditional Kyoto scenery.

Visit Tips

No visit to Imamiya Shrine is complete without trying aburi mochi at one of the two historic teahouses—Ichiwa or Kazariya—that have welcomed visitors for centuries.

Spring is the most festive season during the Yasurai Festival, but the shrine is equally enjoyable in the quieter seasons of fresh greenery and autumn colors. Nearby attractions such as Daitoku-ji Temple, Funaokayama Park, Kenkun Shrine, and Genko-an Temple make this an excellent area for a leisurely day of sightseeing.