Imamiya Shrine

Imamiya Shrine, located in Kita Ward, Kyoto City, is an ancient shrine said to have been founded in the Heian period to quell epidemics. Because Otama-no-Kata (Keishoin), the mother of the fifth Edo shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, rose from being a greengrocer's daughter to the mother of a shogun, it is beloved as the "Tama-no-Koshi shrine" for blessings of good fortune in marriage and in life.

Highlights

- Blessing of Tama-no-Koshi: From the tale of a low-born woman who seized good fortune, it is popular among women wishing for a good match or advancement in life. The "Tama-no-Koshi amulet" is also well regarded. - Ahokashi-san: A sacred stone also called the "divination stone." It is said that if you tap it lightly and lift it, then stroke it with a wish and lift it again, your wish will come true if it feels lighter. - Famous Aburi-mochi: Before the approach gate stand long-established aburi-mochi shops with a thousand-year history, and their fragrant flavor is one of the pleasures of a visit.

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring, the cherry blossoms in the grounds and surroundings, and in autumn the foliage, are beautiful, allowing for worship amid a calm atmosphere. In April the Yasurai Festival, praying to dispel epidemics, is held, known as one of Kyoto's three eccentric festivals. Its hidden-gem atmosphere, allowing relatively relaxed worship year-round, is also an appeal.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 21 Murasakino-Imamiya-cho, Kita Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - Access: Just outside the "Imamiya-jinja-mae" city bus stop, or by city bus from Kitaoji Station on the Subway Karasuma Line - Hours: Grounds open freely (shrine office staffed during the day) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

If you wish for good fortune in marriage or life, be sure to try the Tama-no-Koshi amulet and the Ahokashi-san wish. After worship, enjoying the aburi-mochi before the gate is the standard course. Touring it together with nearby Daitokuji to enjoy a calm walk around the Murasakino area is also recommended.