Imamiya Shrine

Imamiya Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in the Kita ward of Kyoto, Japan, originally founded in 994 during the Heian period. The shrine was established to appease the gods during an epidemic that swept through the capital, and it has long been associated with prayers for good health and protection from disease. The current buildings date primarily from reconstructions in the 17th century, though the shrine retains its ancient spiritual atmosphere and traditional architecture.

The shrine is particularly renowned for its connection to Ōoku (the shogun's harem) history, as it became famous through the story of Keishōin, a greengrocer's daughter who served at the shrine's teahouse before becoming a concubine to the shogun and mother to the fifth Tokugawa shogun. This rags-to-riches tale has made Imamiya Shrine a popular destination for those seeking success and social advancement. The shrine's main deity is Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto, associated with matchmaking and good fortune.

Visitors are drawn to the shrine's distinctive Ahō-kashi stone, a large rock believed to grant wishes when properly approached. The ritual involves tapping the stone three times, lifting it, stroking it three times while making a wish, then lifting it again. If the stone feels lighter the second time, the wish will supposedly come true. The shrine grounds feature attractive vermillion-lacquered buildings set among mature trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere away from Kyoto's busier tourist sites.

Adjacent to the shrine is the famous Ichiwa tea house, operating since 1000 AD and claiming to be one of Japan's oldest establishments. It serves aburimochi, small grilled rice cakes covered with sweet white miso sauce and a regional specialty strongly associated with Imamiya Shrine. The simple yet elegant confection has been prepared using the same traditional method for over a millennium.

Imamiya Shrine is accessible via Kyoto City Bus route 46 or 1, with the closest stop being Imamiya-jinja-mae, located directly in front of the shrine. From central Kyoto stations, the bus journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can reach the shrine by taxi in about 20 minutes from Kyoto Station. Admission to the shrine grounds is free, making it an accessible cultural experience in northern Kyoto.