Nishiki Tenmangu

The shrine was founded in 1003 at the birthplace of Sugawara no Michizane, then relocated in 1587 during Toyotomi Hideyoshi's reconstruction of Kyoto to its current spot at Nishiki Market's eastern end.

Natural spring water rises from over 30 meters underground at a constant 17-18°C, certified safe to drink and tested yearly. Locals regularly bottle this famous Nishiki no Mizu to take home.

The shrine's torii gate is embedded into the surrounding buildings' walls because it was too sacred to alter when the street was constructed, creating a bizarre architectural feature visible in upper-floor windows.

Robot lions in glass cases dance to traditional gagaku court music and fetch your fortune when fed coins, recreating the movement of Edo-period karakuri mechanical puppets using modern robotics.