By Alex
Kyoto Prefecture, adjacent to the Sea of Japan, doesn't often experience heavy snow, so on days when it does snow heavily, tourists flock to major scenic spots to enjoy the snow, no matter how cold the weather may be. Among them, Kifune Shrine, located on Mount Kurama in Sakyo Ward, is arguably the most popular photo spot among snow-viewing visitors.
Snow covered Kifune Shrine, with a fantastical Kyoto snow scene visible in the twilight. pic.twitter.com/VapzBh8YDs
— Ghost Photography Team Kyoto Pillar Usadadanutaki @ Miraphotofes (@usalica) December 17, 2020
There are about 450 Kifune Shrines across Japan, but the one situated on Mount Kurama is the “head shrine.” According to records, it has a history of over 1,600 years. The shrine enshrines Takaokami-no-Kami, the water deity governing water and rain, and is also the birthplace of ema (votive plaques). Many worshippers also visit to pray for love and good relationships.
▲(photo by usalica @Twitter)
▲(photo by usalica @Twitter)
The most famous feature of this Kifune Shrine is the row of bright red lanterns lining both sides of the approach to the main hall. They are lit every day (this winter, the lighting hours are from evening until 8 PM), and when covered with pristine white snow, the contrast of red and white creates a romantic and enchanting scene. In recent years, the shrine has also started special winter illuminations, beginning at 3 PM daily, where unique light displays reflect off the stone steps and surrounding environment, creating breathtaking views—earning the shrine the title of “Japan’s Most Dreamy Shrine.”
▲(photo by haletoke @Twitter)
▲(photo by kifunejinja @Twitter)
However, whether visitors get to see the illumination ultimately depends on fate, as the shrine decides whether to light up each evening based on daily weather conditions and various factors. Before you go, you can check the shrine’s official website, Facebook, or Twitter for the latest updates.
▲(photo by kifunejinja @Twitter)
▲(photo by kifunejinja @Twitter)
▲(photo by tatsuonai @Twitter)
▲(photo by haletoke @Twitter)
▲(photo by haletoke @Twitter)
▲(photo by xxakaxxv @Twitter)
▲(photo by haletoke @Twitter)
Sources: Grapee, Tabirai, LiveJapan