Kawai Shrine (at Shimogamo)
河合神社
A sub-shrine within the Shimogamo Shrine complex dedicated to Tamayori-hime, the deity of beauty. Famous for its unique "mirror ema" - oval prayer boards shaped like a hand mirror where visitors draw their ideal face. Located in the ancient Tadasu no Mori forest.
Key Architectural & Sacred Highlights
- Mirror-shaped ema where you draw your ideal face
- Deity of beauty and women's well-being
- Ancient Tadasu no Mori primeval forest
- Free admission to shrine
- Very popular with female visitors and couples
- Part of UNESCO Shimogamo Shrine complex
📍 How to Get There
Nearest Station
Demachiyanagi Station (Keihan/Eizan) - 10 min walk
Step-by-Step Directions
- 1 From Demachiyanagi Station: 10 minute walk south through Tadasu no Mori forest
- 2 Located at the southern entrance of Shimogamo Shrine complex
- 3 You'll pass through it walking from Demachiyanagi to Shimogamo main shrine
- 4 From Kyoto Station: Bus 4 or 205 to Shimogamo Jinja-mae
Live Municipal Bus Approach GTFS-RT
Nearest Stop: Tadasu no Mori (糺ノ森) • ~3 min walk
Footwear & Accessibility Radar
Shoes Allowed on Primeval Forest Trails
Canopy walking trails alongside sacred crystal clear brook; walking shoes recommended.
Wide, level packed-earth avenues suitable for wheelchairs, bicycles, and strollers.
Location & Maps
🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
35.038056 135.772222 💡 Tip: "View Location" shows the temple on the map. "Get Directions" navigates from your current position.
Best Time to Visit
Any time. Popular with women seeking beauty blessings. The ancient forest (Tadasu no Mori) is beautiful in all seasons. Cherry blossoms and autumn foliage in the forest are atmospheric.
Contact & Info
Within Shimogamo Shrine complex, Shimogamo Izumigawacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto 606-0807
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