Nonomiya Shrine in Kyoto is one of the must-visit attractions in Arashiyama. Whether you take the Sagano Train, stroll through the bamboo forest, or come here to enjoy the maple leaves in autumn, it is a popular choice on your itinerary. Not only can you worship here and seek marriage protection, but it is also full of strong poetic atmosphere and is well worth a visit. This article will introduce in detail how to get there, the best itinerary, and recommendations for nearby attractions to make planning a trip to Arashiyama in Novice Village easier and more enjoyable.
A brief introduction to Nonomiya Shrine in Kyoto
Whenever the emperor changes, unmarried women in the royal family (such as princes or queens) will be sent to Ise Shrine to perform priestly duties. However, a three-year period of fasting and bathing is required before departure. This fasting place is called "Yegong". The locations often change, but most are chosen from the Sagano area. It is said that during the reign of Emperor Saga, Nonomiya was installed at the current location of Nonomiya Shrine, so it became Nonomiya Shrine.
Participating in sacrifices on behalf of the emperor is an important duty, and the accompanying team numbers about 500 people, including officials, ladies-in-waiting, maids and servants. To this day, this tradition is still preserved, and the "Zhai Palace Procession" is held on the third Sunday of October every year. For example, the 10 Saigu Parade will be held on October 2019. Travelers who are interested in ancient culture may wish to come and watch it in person to experience the traditional style and cultural heritage of Kyoto.
The gods enshrined at Nonomiya Shrine are as follows:
- The main hall is dedicated to: Nomiya Okami (Amaterasu), who blesses health and wisdom.
- Enshrined on the right:
‧ Baifuwu Inari Daimyojin, bless you with many children and grandchildren, smooth production and career development
‧ Bai Feng is the god of wealth, praying for wealth and academic progress. - Sacrifice on the left:
‧ Dragon God, protect the sick
‧ Nonomiya Mahakala, blesses believers to have a good marriage. It is said that touching the sacred stone "Turtle Stone" next to it can make your wish come true.
▲ The torii in front of Nonomiya Shrine is one of Japan's oldest representatives.
▲ Promotional posters in the ranks of Saigu.
▲ When autumn comes, it will be different and beautiful.
▲ All kinds of defensive and painted horses.
‧ Travel photos of visiting Nonomiya Shrine in 2007 ‧
▲I don't know how to use a large-aperture lens yet, I only know to turn to the maximum, indulge in the beautiful bokeh.
▲ㄜ...The most efficacious turtle stone just happened to be dropped by me. Remember to pray when you come here.
▲ The main hall dedicated to the god of health and wisdom.
▲ The Omori of The Tale of Genji is the most special, and it is highly recommended to buy and pray for a good relationship.
You can swim from Arashiyama to the Bamboo Forest in Xinshou Village
Taking a small train to and from the mountains and forests, the wind blowing in Japan in autumn is slightly cold, but the lush green forests of the mountains are mesmerizing! After arriving at Kameoka Station, the sun was already shining all over us, and we began the wonderful itinerary of walking Arashiyama. This trip was the first time we came to Kyoto, Japan with a group. Our group leader and tour guide was Foreman Ken, who was very knowledgeable about every scenic spot. The explanations were very detailed, and the group members followed and listened to the explanations attentively. Fresh air permeates the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, with towering bamboo groups standing on both sides. As we walk, we are still amazed at how clean the trails are. No wonder Japan has always been the first choice for family travel.
▲ Arashiyama is a well-known scenic spot for spring cherry and autumn maple, and there are many temples to enjoy the scenery.
▲ Watch the red leaves along the way while riding the small train.
▲ In autumn, the golden thread chrysanthemum is more beautiful.
▲ The leader and tour guide at the time was very happy to participate in his Keihan maple viewing tour.
▲ Have you seen this red maple?As a result, everyone took a lot of shots~ it took about half an hour! ^^b
▲ I estimate that this year's maple season will be around mid-November. Are you ready?
▲ This year's Lantern Road is still 12/8~12/17. (See for detailsOfficial website)
Shun along Lanshan Street and experience
When passing by Tenryuji Temple, the red maples and green shades inside the temple formed a sharp contrast. The peaceful and solemn atmosphere made us want to explore further. However, in the end, we were still the "leaved" members. We could only take a few photos at the door and then hurried forward. Arriving in downtown Arashiyama, there are many small stalls selling handicrafts along the way, as well as famous tofu dishes. These exquisite handicrafts are full of "Japanese" style and are perfect for buying as souvenirs.
In addition to the bustling crowds along the way, there are also groups of rickshaw drivers carrying tourists. As far as I remember, a rickshaw ride costs 1,000 yen per person. In order to ensure traffic safety, several uncles were on hand to direct the traffic to prevent pedestrians and rickshaws from colliding with each other. Arashiyama is indeed a beautiful place. As I write this article, the red maples, trails, and fresh air seem to surround me again, and I can’t help but feel nostalgic!
▲ The trail behind...too clean!
▲ These handicrafts have a sense of rustic design.
▲ This store is still there! In 2012, the cherry blossom viewing party came to the old place, Wendy still went to buy and taste it.
▲ One is a very serious old man, and the other is a very expensive wife. (I imagine they should be very affectionate~)
Nonomiya Shrine in Kyoto. Nonomiya Shrine
- Address: 1 Saganomiya-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto City
- Phone: 81 75-871-1972
- Official website: http://www.nonomiya.com/index.html
