Shimogamo Shrine

Shimogamo Shrine, officially known as Kamo Mioya Shrine, is named for enshrining the parents of the deities worshipped at Kamigamo Shrine. As Kyoto developed around the Kamo River, the shrine came to be affectionately called "Shimogamo-san" due to its downstream location. Founded before the establishment of Heian-kyo, it is one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto. During the Heian period, it received imperial reverence second only to Ise Grand Shrine, and the Shikinen Sengu reconstruction ceremony was conducted approximately every 21 years. However, after the two main halls were designated National Treasures, reconstructions were limited to partial restorations. Popular among women, the shrine features the Aioi Shrine located before the Romon Gate, renowned as a deity of matchmaking. Its sacred tree, formed by two trees joined into one, is called the Renri no Sakaki. Another sub-shrine, Kawai Shrine, is famous for prayers for beauty, where many women offer hand-mirror-shaped ema adorned with makeup. In May, the Aoi Festival takes place, with a procession in period costumes traveling from the Kyoto Imperial Palace through Shimogamo Shrine to Kamigamo Shrine.