Seimei Shrine, located in Kyoto’s Kamigyo Ward, is a shrine dedicated to Abe no Seimei, a renowned historical figure.
Abe no Seimei was a famous astronomer and the founder of the Abe clan, which oversaw the Bureau of Onmyo, an ancient governmental department for astrology and divination. Today, he is widely recognized as a legendary Onmyoji (a master of yin-yang and the five elements).
This shrine is a popular power spot believed to protect against misfortune and illness. It gained even more attention when figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu visited the shrine and later won a gold medal at the Olympics.
In this article, we’ll explore the highlights of Seimei Shrine, including its unique features like the purification peach and sacred well, and share tips on how to enjoy your visit.
What is Seimei Shrine?
Seimei Shrine, located in Kyoto’s Kamigyo Ward, is a shrine dedicated to Abe no Seimei, a legendary figure known for his exceptional skills in astronomy and mystical arts.
From a young age, Abe no Seimei was said to possess the ability to control shikigami (spiritual entities) in addition to his expertise in astronomy.
The shrine is believed to offer blessings for protection against illness, injuries, and bad luck, making it a popular spiritual destination.
In modern times, Seimei Shrine gained fame thanks to the success of novels and movies in the Heisei era that were inspired by Abe no Seimei. The shrine also became known worldwide after an Olympic gold medal-winning figure skater visited to pray for success.
The grounds are full of fascinating spots, such as a well marked with the five-pointed star (gobosei) Seimei used in his rituals and a peach-shaped object said to ward off misfortune when touched.
The History of Seimei Shrine
Seimei Shrine was established in 1007 to honor Abe no Seimei, a renowned Onmyoji, after his death in 1005. Emperor Ichijo ordered the shrine’s construction to recognize Seimei’s extraordinary achievements during his lifetime.
The shrine was built on the site of Seimei’s former residence. Historical records suggest that when it was first constructed, the shrine had an expansive area stretching east to Horikawa Street, west to Kuromon Street, north to Motoseiganji Street, and south to Nakadachiuri Street.
However, the shrine’s scale was greatly reduced over the years due to events like the Onin War, repeated fires, and the urban expansion led by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. During this time, many ancient books, treasures, and even the shrine buildings fell into disrepair.
In the late Edo period, local parishioners took the initiative to restore the shrine and its grounds.
By 1950, the shrine’s grounds were extended to face Horikawa Street, fulfilling a long-held wish. Thanks to the devotion of many followers of Abe no Seimei, the shrine was rebuilt and continues to attract worshippers from all over Japan today.
How to Get to Seimei Shrine
Here’s how to access Seimei Shrine, located in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, along Horikawa Street. The easiest way to get there is by bus. You can catch a bus from JR Kyoto Station or other major stations in Kyoto, with a short walk from the nearest bus stop.
By Bus:
- From Keihan Sanjo Station: Take City Bus No. 12 or No. 59 and get off at Horikawa Imadegawa. The shrine is a 2-minute walk.
- From JR Kyoto Station: Take City Bus No. 9 and get off at Ichijo Modoribashi/Seimei Shrine Mae. The shrine is a 2-minute walk.
- From Hankyu Karasuma Station or Subway Shijo Station: Take City Bus No. 12 and get off at Ichijo Modoribashi/Seimei Shrine Mae. A 2-minute walk.
Visitor Information for Seimei Shrine
English Name: Seimei Shrine
Address: 806 Seimei-cho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, along Horikawa Street
Google Maps: Google Maps
Phone: +81-75-441-6460
Closed: Open year-round
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Admission Fee: Free
Official Website: Seimei Shrine
Seimei Shrine is a modestly sized shrine located along Horikawa Street. Its grounds feature many unique highlights, such as statues of Abe no Seimei and shikigami (spiritual entities), reflecting the shrine’s connection to this legendary figure.
Please note that the shrine is not open for 24-hour visits; the official visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
One of the shrine’s unique offerings is prayers not only for individuals and businesses but also for the health and well-being of pets. If you wish to arrange a prayer service, it’s recommended to contact the shrine in advance by phone.
Highlights of Seimei Shrine
Seimei Shrine is dedicated to Abe no Seimei, a legendary figure whose stories are still celebrated today in novels and films. Known for its unique blessings such as protection against misfortune and evil spirits, this shrine offers distinctive features that set it apart from others.
1. The Unique Shrine Crest and the First Torii Gate
The First Torii Gate, marking the entrance to Seimei Shrine, is an iconic landmark. Unlike most shrines where the torii displays the name of the shrine or its enshrined deity, Seimei Shrine’s torii features its unique crest, the Seimei Kikyō (Seimei Bellflower).
This golden crest, also known as the pentagram, is a symbol of Seimei Shrine and represents its connection to Abe no Seimei. The pentagram was used in Onmyodo, the traditional cosmology and mystical practices developed by Seimei.
At night, lanterns along the pathway to the torii light up, creating a magical and mysterious atmosphere that enhances the shrine’s charm.
After passing through the First Torii Gate, you’ll come across a small bridge called the Old Ichijo Modoribashi Bridge, a replica of the historic Ichijo Modoribashi, which has deep ties to Abe no Seimei.
The original bridge, rebuilt in 1995, is located about 100 meters south of the shrine, spanning the Horikawa River. This bridge is famous in Japanese folklore, including the Oni Woman Legend, where Watanabe no Tsuna, one of Minamoto no Raikou’s Four Heavenly Kings, cut off the arm of a demoness here.
The bridge is also associated with Abe no Seimei’s sorcery. It is said to be the place where he revived his father and stationed his shikigami (spiritual familiars) under the bridge.
Even today, due to the meaning of “modoru” (to return), funeral and wedding processions traditionally avoid crossing this bridge.
The replica at Seimei Shrine includes handrails from a previous version of the original bridge, preserving its historical essence within the shrine grounds.
2. Worship at the Shrine Honoring Abe no Seimei: Main Hall, Sub-shrines, and Sacred Tree
After passing through the First Torii Gate, you’ll find the Second Torii Gate, marked with the shrine’s name. This area is quieter and more serene than the bustling first gate near the main road, allowing visitors to feel the sacred atmosphere of the shrine. Look closely at the lanterns beside the gate; they are decorated with the Seimei Kikyō (Seimei Bellflower) crest.
The main building at the back of the shrine is the Main Hall, dedicated to Abe no Seimei and the deity overseeing crops and food. The current structure was rebuilt in 1905 and prominently features the Seimei Kikyō crest in its design.
Before approaching the Main Hall, be sure to purify your hands and mouth at the temizuya (purification fountain) just beyond the Second Torii Gate.
Seimei Shrine is widely known for its blessings of protection from evil and misfortune. Abe no Seimei, famous as an onmyoji (master of yin-yang practices), was trusted during his lifetime for dispelling evil and continues to be revered for these powers as a deity. Many visitors come to pray for warding off bad luck or to perform rituals for purification.
Next to the Main Hall is the Itsuki Inari Shrine, one of the shrine’s sub-shrines. It enshrines three deities, including the deity of the Inari. Abe no Seimei is said to have a strong connection with Inari, as legends claim he was a reincarnation of Inari’s fox messenger, and his mother, Kuzunoha, was also believed to be a fox spirit.
The word “Itsuki” refers to the Saigu (priestesses) who served at Kyoto’s two Kamo Shrines, as this Inari shrine was once located in their residence. Be sure to visit this sub-shrine, which carries a profound sense of history and reverence.
In front of the sub-shrines, you’ll find the Sacred Tree, a 300-year-old camphor tree surrounded by benches. This tree, once a source of camphor used for pest control, is believed to bless those who touch it with their hands in silent prayer.
Take a moment to sit on the benches around the tree to rest during your visit and soak in the peaceful ambiance of the shrine.
Seimei Shrine offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper connection to Japan’s mystical traditions.
3. Seimei Shrine’s Spiritual Power Spots: The Peach of Misfortune and Sacred Well
Next to the Main Hall of Seimei Shrine stands a large, golden Peach of Misfortune, a statue believed to ward off evil.
In traditional Chinese culture and Onmyodo (the way of yin and yang), peaches symbolize protection against misfortune. Even Japan’s ancient texts, such as the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, describe peaches driving away evil spirits.
The famous Japanese folktale hero, Momotaro, is said to have originated from the belief that peaches can ward off misfortune. At Seimei Shrine, touching the golden peach is believed to remove negativity, bad luck, and impure thoughts from your life. Many visitors come to this popular power spot to benefit from its protective blessings.
Another must-see spot is the Seimei Well, located just beyond the Second Torii Gate. According to legend, Abe no Seimei, the shrine’s enshrined deity, summoned the well’s water using his mystical powers.
Drinking the water from this well is said to bring blessings of good health and recovery from illness. Even today, visitors can taste the fresh spring water. For safety, it’s recommended to boil the water before drinking, though the author sampled it directly during their visit. The water is refreshingly cool, especially in summer and even chillier in winter.
This well is also famous for its connection to the tea master Sen no Rikyu, who used its water for tea ceremonies. Interestingly, the water flows in the direction of the year’s lucky compass point, adding to its spiritual significance. Many visitors take photos of the well, as it’s believed using it as a phone wallpaper can also bring good health.
Near the Main Hall, you’ll find a bronze statue of Abe no Seimei himself. This statue was crafted based on a portrait preserved at Seimei Shrine and depicts the onmyoji gazing at the sky, observing celestial bodies, with his hands hidden under his robe forming mystical gestures.
Don’t miss the approximately 2,000 Seimei Kikyō flowers (bellflowers) growing around the shrine. These flowers are the symbol of Seimei Shrine and add a serene, natural beauty to your visit.
4. Hidden Gems and Charms: Highlights of Seimei Shrine
One of the defining symbols of Seimei Shrine is the Seimei Kikyo (a pentagram-shaped bellflower), which also serves as the shrine’s emblem. This design is featured on many items, including ema (wooden prayer plaques) and omamori (protective charms). Visitors often leave ema inscribed with wishes for protection, creating a striking display across the shrine grounds.
At the shrine office, visitors can experience a unique form of fortune-telling conducted by the shrine’s chief priest. This service is available on a first-come, first-served basis between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Known for its popularity, the fortune-telling often attracts a line, making it one of Seimei Shrine’s must-see features for those interested in divination.
On the left side of the Main Hall, you’ll find the Kensho-ban, a display of ten carefully selected anecdotes from the life of Abe no Seimei, the shrine’s enshrined deity. These stories, which include tales of Seimei using spells to banish evil spirits, offer an entertaining glimpse into his almost mythical powers. Reading through them feels like diving into a captivating novel!
For those looking to capture memories, don’t miss the face cutout board featuring Abe no Seimei and his shikigami (spiritual servants). This photo spot is especially popular among school groups and a great way to commemorate your visit. Along with the Seimei Well, it’s one of the shrine’s best spots for memorable snapshots.
On either side of the approach to the shrine stand two imposing columns known as the Sun and Moon Pillars. These columns, topped with symbols of the sun and moon, represent the yin and yang philosophy that Seimei himself mastered. Positioned with the sun to the south and the moon to the north, these pillars welcome visitors alongside the First Torii Gate.
Another fascinating feature is the Four Gods Gate (Shijinmon), located beyond the Sun and Moon Pillars. In the past, the gate would open and close automatically as people entered and exited, a feature it retains today. The gate’s pillars depict the Four Guardian Beasts—each protecting one direction of Kyoto. Be sure to take a closer look!
Seimei Shrine offers a variety of original charms featuring the Seimei Kikyo design. Among them, the Mizukagami Mamori charm is especially famous, having been used by Olympic gold medalist Yuzuru Hanyu. This charm is said to enhance concentration, making it a popular choice for students, job seekers, and athletes preparing for big events.
Recommended Tourist Spots Near Seimei Shrine
Seimei Shrine is a relatively compact destination, typically taking about 30 minutes to explore. If you have more time, consider visiting nearby temples and shrines that showcase Kyoto’s unique charm. Among them, one spot stands out for sports enthusiasts: a shrine with ties to soccer and traditional ball games.
1. Shiramine Shrine – A Sacred Spot for Soccer and Sports
Located just a short walk from the “Horikawa Imadegawa” bus stop on Kyoto City Bus Routes 9 or 101, Shiramine Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Sutoku and Emperor Junni, along with Sei Daimyojin, the deity of kemari (a traditional Japanese ball game). This connection has earned it a reputation as a power spot for soccer and other sports.
The shrine gained international attention during the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France, becoming a popular destination for soccer players and fans. In 2001, a monument to kemari was erected on the grounds, and over the years, the shrine has come to be associated with ball sports in general. Its smaller sub-shrines also honor deities of martial arts, attracting many high school and middle school athletes.
At the far end of the shrine, you’ll find the main hall, adorned with autograph boards from famous athletes. Next to the main hall, you’ll see official balls from various sports like baseball, soccer, and basketball, some of which are signed or have personal messages from athletes. The shrine offers sports-themed charms and items, including magnetized talismans, headbands, and wristbands—perfect for both athletes and fans.
Shiramine Shrine
- Address: 261 Asukai-cho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City
- Map: Google Map
- Access: A 5-minute walk from Seimei Shrine or a short walk from “Horikawa Imadegawa” bus stop (Routes 9, 101)
- Phone: 075-441-3810
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: Free
- Official Website: Shiramine Shrine
2. Free Admission Year-Round! Explore the Historic Kyoto Imperial Palace
Located just a 5-minute walk from Imadegawa Station on the Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line, the Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto Gosho) has been open to the public for free since 2016, making it a popular tourist destination.
Managed by the Imperial Household Agency, this historic site is classified as state property and has a dignified atmosphere befitting its status as a former residence of Japan’s emperors.
The current palace was constructed in 1855 at the northern part of the expansive Kyoto Gyoen National Garden. One of its most prominent buildings is the Shishinden (Hall for State Ceremonies), the palace’s main hall and most prestigious structure. It served as the site for the enthronement ceremonies of the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa emperors. Don’t forget to take photos of this impressive building!
The palace grounds feature the famous Sakon no Sakura (cherry tree on the left) and Ukon no Tachibana (tachibana orange tree on the right), planted in front of the main hall. Visitors can also stroll through the Oike-niwa garden, a traditional strolling pond garden, which showcases beautiful seasonal views, including vibrant autumn leaves.
Kyoto Imperial Palace
- Address: Inside Kyoto Gyoen, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City
- Map: Google Map
- Access: 5-minute walk from Imadegawa Station on the Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line
- Phone: 075-211-1215
- Hours:
- March & September: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry 3:50 PM)
- October to February: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry 3:20 PM)
- April to August: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:20 PM)
- Closed: Occasionally closed due to weather conditions
- Admission: Free
- Official Website: Kyoto Imperial Palace
3. Visit the Shrine of Academic Success: Kitano Tenmangu
Kitano Tenmangu is a well-known shrine located just steps from the Kitano Tenmangu-mae bus stop (City Bus Routes 50 and 101) or a 5-minute walk from Hakubaicho Station on the Keifuku Railway.
Dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the “God of Learning,” the shrine is a popular destination for students from across Japan, especially those preparing for exams. Along with Dazaifu Tenmangu in Fukuoka, Kitano Tenmangu is one of the central sites of Tenjin faith in Japan.
The shrine was founded in 947 to honor Sugawara no Michizane. Kitano is considered a spiritually rich area and is said to be a power spot offering blessings not only for academics but also for various aspects of life.
The main hall (honden), built in 1607, is a masterpiece of Japanese architecture in the Gongen-zukuri style. It is a National Treasure and one of the oldest examples of its kind. On the 25th of each month, the shrine is illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere that is a must-see.
Kitano Tenmangu is home to Odoi, an embankment built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi to protect against flooding. This area, along with the Uguisu Bridge and other spots within the shrine grounds, features over 350 maple trees.
During autumn, the shrine is a vibrant sea of red and gold. At the peak of the season, special evening illuminations showcase the breathtaking beauty of the autumn leaves. The combination of crimson maples and the vermilion bridge creates a picture-perfect scene.
In spring and summer, the fresh green leaves (ao-momiji) are equally enchanting. The lush greenery provides a cool, refreshing atmosphere, even during the warmer months.
Kitano Tenmangu
- Address: Bakuro-cho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Map: Google Map
- Access:
- From JR Kyoto Station: Take City Bus Routes 50 or 101 to Kitano Tenmangu-mae (short walk).
- From Hakubaicho Station: 5-minute walk.
- Phone: 075-461-0005
- Hours:
- April–September: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- October–March: 5:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Autumn Illumination Period: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Admission: Free
- Official Website: Kitano Tenmangu
Seimei Shrine is a popular tourist destination located in the heart of Kyoto City (Rakuchu area). Its central location and proximity to major streets make it easily accessible for visitors.
This shrine is dedicated to Abe no Seimei, a legendary onmyoji (master of yin and yang). Within the shrine grounds, you can explore various power spots believed to bring good fortune and spiritual energy.
Seimei Shrine is a must-visit for anyone seeking a blend of history, mysticism, and Kyoto’s unique charm!
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