Konoshima-jinja Shrine (Kaiko-no-Yashiro)

Konoshima-jinja Shrine, more commonly known as Kaiko-no-Yashiro, is one of Kyoto’s oldest Shinto shrines. Located in the Uzumasa district, it has long been associated with the Hata clan, an influential immigrant family that played a major role in the cultural and economic development of ancient Kyoto. The shrine was traditionally worshipped as a guardian of sericulture (silkworm cultivation) and weaving, giving rise to its popular nickname, which means “Silkworm Shrine.”

The shrine is best known for its extraordinary Mihashira Torii (Three-Pillar Torii), one of the rarest forms of Shinto gate in Japan. Its mysterious appearance and uncertain origin have made it one of Kyoto’s most fascinating sacred landmarks.

History

Although the exact founding date of Konoshima-jinja is unknown, it is believed to predate the establishment of Heian-kyo (Kyoto) in 794. The shrine appears in the Engishiki, a tenth-century register of officially recognized shrines, demonstrating its long-standing importance.

The shrine has deep connections with the Hata clan, whose advanced knowledge of irrigation, weaving, sericulture, and engineering greatly influenced the development of ancient Kyoto. Because of these ties, the shrine became closely associated with silk production and was affectionately called Kaiko-no-Yashiro.

Its most remarkable feature, the Mihashira Torii, consists of three torii gates joined together to form a triangular structure. The gate is exceptionally rare, and while its exact purpose remains uncertain, scholars have linked it to ancient religious beliefs, esoteric Buddhism, and even Onmyodo, Japan’s traditional cosmological practices.

Highlights

Mihashira Torii

See one of Japan’s rarest torii gates, formed by three interconnected shrine gates.

Hata Clan Heritage

Discover the shrine’s strong ties to the influential immigrant family that helped shape ancient Kyoto.

Sacred Pond Site

Explore the remains of the former sacred pond that once enhanced the shrine’s spiritual atmosphere.

Historic Engishiki Shrine

Visit an officially recognized ancient shrine recorded in the tenth-century Engishiki.

Peaceful Setting

Enjoy a quiet and uncrowded shrine surrounded by the historic neighborhood of Uzumasa.

Visit Tips

Be sure to walk to the rear of the shrine grounds to see the Mihashira Torii, one of the most unusual shrine gates in Japan. Its unique design makes it a favorite subject for photographers and visitors interested in Japanese spirituality.

Konoshima-jinja is easily combined with Koryu-ji Temple, Hebizuka Burial Mound, and Toei Kyoto Studio Park, creating an enjoyable route exploring the ancient heritage of the Uzumasa district and the legacy of the Hata clan.