Goō Shrine in Kyoto: A Wild Boar Shrine That Protects Your Legs and Lower Back

If you love cute boars or enjoy collecting animal-themed omikuji, you definitely shouldn’t miss Goō Shrine in Kyoto!

The shrine sits right in the city center, next to the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
It’s famous for its wild boar guardians, and you’ll find boar statues and decorations all around the grounds.

Goō Shrine is also known for protecting the legs and lower back, so many visitors come here to pray for good health and recovery.

Why Goō Shrine Is Linked to Wild Boars

In ancient Japan, wild boars lived in the mountains and were an important source of food.
Over time, people began to believe wild boars were the messengers or avatars of mountain gods.

The shrine’s main deity is Wake no Kiyomaro, a high-ranking official in the late Nara to early Heian period.
During the time of Empress Shōtoku, a monk named Dōkyō gained too much power and tried to take control of the imperial throne.
Kiyomaro opposed him, and as a result, he had his leg tendons cut and was exiled to Kagoshima.

But that wasn’t enough for Dōkyō, he even sent assassins to kill him.

According to the legend, when the assassins approached, 300 wild boars suddenly appeared from the mountains, surrounding Kiyomaro and scaring the attackers away.

Even more incredible, Kiyomaro, who couldn’t even stand before, was somehow able to walk again and escape safely thanks to the wild boars.

Because of this, wild boars became the symbol of protection at Goō Shrine, especially for anything related to the legs and lower back.

Highlights of Goō Shrine

Wild Boar Komainu

Right at the entrance, you’ll see a pair of boar-shaped guardian statues instead of the usual lion-dog komainu.
They’re fierce and adorable at the same time, and they’re one of the shrine’s most iconic sights.

Leg & Lower Back Protection Shrine

If you want to pray for strong legs, a healthy lower back, or recovery from pain, this is the place.
You’ll notice a giant leg-and-lower-back-themed charm as soon as you enter.

Boar-Themed Chozuya

This cute photo spot features a huge boar statue and colorful boar omikuji inside the basin.
Water flows gently from bamboo spouts, and don’t forget to touch the boar’s nose for good luck!

Mini Boar Chozuya

Besides the main one, there’s also a miniature boar-themed purification basin inside the shrine grounds.
The small boar statues there are super cute too.

Boar Omikuji & Boar Ema

If you like collecting animal charms or wooden plaques, the boar omikuji and boar ema here are must-gets.

Boar Decorations Everywhere

As you walk around, you’ll find boars in all shapes and sizes hidden throughout the shrine.
It’s fun to explore and see how many you can spot!

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Hours & Location

• Address: 385 Sakuranocho, Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto
• Omamori Office: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM daily

How to Get There

• By Bus: Take the Kyoto City Bus to Karasuma Marutamachi. It’s about an 8-minute walk.
• By Subway: Take the Karasuma Line to Marutamachi Station. It’s a 5-minute walk from Exit 2.