Arrive prepared to walk the scenic Philosopher's Path to reach the shrine, as it sits at the southern end of this famous route.
At a Glance
Founded in 887 to pray for Emperor Uda's recovery from illness, this small shrine sits along Kyoto's Philosopher's Path but remains largely unknown compared to the crowded nearby temples of Nanzen-ji and Ginkaku-ji.
Beyond the mice, the shrine features an unusual trio of animal guardians: a monkey, a black kite, and the sacred mice. This whimsical mix is scattered throughout the grounds alongside zodiac figures and even a Mickey Mouse statue.
This shrine offers 2 different goshuin designs
Special
Regular
Arrive prepared to walk the scenic Philosopher's Path to reach the shrine, as it sits at the southern end of this famous route.
Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the crowds that gather on weekends and holidays, especially during the Year of the Rat when visitors flock to see the famous guardian mice.
Look for the two stone mice guardians at the entrance, often decorated with fresh camellia flowers behind their ears. One holds a scroll representing academic achievement, while the other carries a sake bottle symbolizing fertility and longevity, so take time to observe these details before entering.
The divine spirits venerated at this sacred place
Seasonal celebrations and special occasions
Not confirmed
More ways to continue from this place.
Within 300 m Within 600 m
Sakyo, Kyoto Prefecture
What this place is believed to grant
4 recent posts
Share how your visit was to help other travelers.
MFmaravillas fa checked in
Otoyo Jinja
Sakyo, Kyoto
Andrea Benitez Rodríguez checked inLocation matched
Otoyo Jinja
Sakyo, Kyoto
