Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine in Kyoto: Start of the Philosopher’s Path & the Famous Yatagarasu Omikuji

Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine is located near the southern entrance of the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto.
It’s a quiet, peaceful shrine with a long history, and together with Kumano Shrine and Shin-Kumano Shrine, it’s known as one of the “Three Kumano Shrines of Kyoto.”

The shrine was founded in 1160 as the guardian shrine of Eikando Temple.
It later fell into ruin after the Ōnin War, but was rebuilt during the time of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

When you walk into the shrine, the first thing you’ll notice is an old stone arch bridge, which instantly gives the place a historic and nostalgic feel.

Inside the grounds, you’ll find the Ebisu Hall, where a life-size wooden statue of Ebisu, the god of good business and prosperity, is enshrined.

There is also a sacred ox statue associated with the god of learning, and many visitors stop by to pray for success in their studies.

The shrine itself is small, and you can explore it fairly quickly.
It’s a spot that many people might easily overlook.
But if you enjoy collecting animal-themed omikuji, then this shrine is definitely worth a visit, because Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine is famous for its Yatagarasu!

Yatagarasu is a three-legged crow from Japanese mythology.
According to legend, during Emperor Jimmu’s eastern expedition, Yatagarasu was sent by the sun goddess Amaterasu to guide the emperor from the land of Kumano to Yamato.
Because of this, Yatagarasu is seen as a symbol of guidance and direction, and it often appears in shrines connected to the Kumano faith.

Since Kumano Nyakuōji Shrine sits at the southern end of the Philosopher’s Path, it’s very easy to stop by, especially if you’re collecting omikuji or visiting shrines with animal motifs.

Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine: Opening Hours

• Address: 2 Nyoigocho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
• Shrine Office Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Kumano Nyakuoji Shrine: How to Get There

• By Bus:
  • From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus No. 5 and get off at Nanzenji/Eikando-michi. From there, it’s about a 12-minute walk to the shrine.
• By Subway:
  • Take the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line to Keage Station. From the station, walk about 20 minutes to reach the southern end of the Philosopher’s Path, and the shrine is nearby.