Yasaka Koshindo

Yasaka Koshindo, located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, formally Daikokuzan Kongoji, is one of Japan's oldest sacred sites of Koshin faith. The colorful round amulets called "kukurizaru" that fill the grounds are striking, and from this charming, photogenic scene it has in recent years become a hugely popular power spot on social media.

Highlights

- Kukurizaru: Amulets shaped like a monkey with its hands and feet bound. Representing the restraint of human desire so it cannot move, it is said that wishes come true if you give up one desire while making your wish. - Colorful Photo Spot: The sight of red, yellow, blue, and other colorful kukurizaru hung densely is an ideal photo spot with the Yasaka Pagoda (Hokanji) in the background. Worship in kimono is also popular. - Three Monkey Carvings: The motif of the three monkeys, "see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil," can be seen here and there, a highlight unique to Koshin faith.

Enjoying the Seasons

Set within the atmospheric streets of Higashiyama, worship and photography can be enjoyed in any season. During the cherry blossoms of spring and the foliage of autumn, it bustles with people visiting along with a stroll around the area. It is popular with tourists strolling in rented kimono, and for photogenic shots a sunny morning is recommended.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 390 Kinen-cho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture - Access: About a 15-minute walk from Gion-shijo Station on the Keihan line, or about a 7-minute walk from the "Kiyomizu-michi" city bus stop - Hours: Daytime - Admission: Free (receiving a kukurizaru charges a fee)

A Quick Tip

When writing your wish on a kukurizaru, the key is to decide on one "desire to give up" along with the wish you want granted. As Higashiyama sights such as the Yasaka Pagoda and the Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka slopes are within walking distance, touring it together with a distinctly Kyoto-like town walk is the standard plan.