Seimei Shrine

Seimei Shrine, located in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, enshrines as its deity the onmyoji Abe no Seimei, who was active in the Heian period. Said to have been founded on the site of Seimei's residence, it draws deep faith for warding off evil and misfortune. Its mystical appearance, with the pentagram (Seimei kikyo seal) as its crest, attracts many worshippers, making it a power spot.

Highlights

- Seimei Well: A well said to have been made to spring forth by Seimei's spiritual power. The direction in which it flows is said to face that year's lucky direction, and it is believed to bless good health. - Ichijo Modoribashi and Shikigami Statue: The grounds hold a recreated bridge of the "Ichijo Modoribashi," where Seimei is said to have hidden his shikigami spirit servants, along with a stone statue of a shikigami. - Pentagram Amulets: Amulets and charms featuring the pentagram, a symbol of warding off evil, are popular and make welcome mementos of a visit.

Enjoying the Seasons

Chinese bellflowers, associated with Seimei, color the grounds from early summer into autumn. At their peak in particular, the dainty purple flowers combined with the pentagram make for a beautiful sight. Being in the city, it is easy to visit year-round, and the New Year period bustles with worshippers praying to ward off misfortune.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 806 Seimei-cho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - Access: About a 12-minute walk from Imadegawa Station on the Subway Karasuma Line, or just outside the "Ichijo-modoribashi, Seimei-jinja-mae" city bus stop - Hours: Daytime (shrine office staffed during the day) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

If you wish to ward off evil and misfortune, be sure to receive a pentagram amulet. Visiting when the bellflowers bloom lets you enjoy more vivid grounds. Located in the Nishijin area, touring it together with a walk around the neighborhood is also recommended.