Shimogamo Shrine

下鴨神社

UNESCO World Heritage Shinto shrine over 2,000 years old - one of Kyoto's oldest shrines. Officially named Kamo-mioya Shrine. Set in Tadasu-no-Mori primeval forest (12 hectares, 600 trees). Co-hosts Aoi Matsuri, one of Kyoto's 3 great festivals (May 15).

Visit: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Entrance: Free

Hours: 6:30 AM - 5:00 PM (buildings close 5 PM, grounds accessible longer)

Highlights & Must-See Features

Tadasu-no-Mori primeval forest approach (12 hectares)
Over 2,000 years old - UNESCO World Heritage
Aoi Matsuri festival (May 15) - one of Kyoto's 3 great festivals
Aioiya sub-shrine (matchmaking deity)
Beautiful vermilion buildings
Mitarashi Festival (July-Aug) - wade in sacred stream
Peaceful forest setting in city

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Demachiyanagi Station (Keihan Line) - 10 minutes walk

Step-by-Step Directions

1 From Kyoto Station: Bus 4 or 205 to Shimogamo Jinja-mae (30 minutes)
2 From Demachiyanagi Station: 10 minute walk north through forest
3 Beautiful approach through Tadasu-no-Mori primeval forest
4 Can combine with Kamigamo Shrine (30 min by bus north)

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 35.039009

Longitude: 135.772699

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Best Time to Visit

May 15 for Aoi Matsuri festival procession (arrives here midday). Summer for Mitarashi Festival (July-August) - wade in stream. Autumn for forest foliage. Peaceful mornings any season.