Kyoto Kiss and Tell: Best Love Shrines Pt. 1

Packing your heart along with your passport for that trip to Japan? Has Kyoto got some shrines for you!

History and beauty are not the only reasons Japanese choose which of the hundreds of temples and shrines to put on their Kyoto to-do lists. For centuries (and longer) certain shrines have made a reputation for themselves as especially lucky in love. Hopeless romantics get off the Shinkansen at Kyoto Station and head for Jishu Jinja near Kyomizu Temple, Aioi-Sha at Shimogamo Shrine, or Yasaka Jinja. Sometimes all three.

For the record, I'm not saying a quick stop at these shrines will actually lead to true love or cement the bond with your current significant other. Visiting holy places to ask for luck in love, health, or work is an ancient Japanese folk ritual and an important part of any visit to a temple or shrine. For visitors, it's a great way to participate in the local culture and bring back some good stories. Besides, as a Shinto priest told me, “You know, it couldn't hurt!

Jishu Jinja Shrine
Situated right inside the grounds of must-see Kiyomizu Temple, Jishu Jinja is easy to include in your itinerary. It's a happy place where the Miko, holy maidens, always add “Oshiawase ni,” – may you find happiness -- with every charm or votive object they sell.

There are lots of things to see, touch, and do squeezed into a compact space on two levels. Whether you are looking for love or not, don't miss a visit here. It's just so much fun.
 Read the rest of part one here.

Coming soon: Kyoto's Best Walks