Nonomiya Shrine

Nonomiya Shrine is a shrine in Sagano, Kyoto, famous for blessings for matchmaking and relationships. In the past, Nonomiya was the place where the saio (an imperial princess chosen to serve Ise Grand Shrine as the emperor’s representative) stayed for one year to purify herself before departing for Ise. The location of Nonomiya was designated with each imperial accession, but after the saio system ended during the Nanboku-cho conflicts in the time of Emperor Go-Daigo, it continued to exist as a shrine. Built in a pristine part of Sagano, Nonomiya is a sacred site enclosed by a kuroki torii gate made of unpainted wood and a small brushwood fence. Its appearance is also found in Heian-period literature; in The Tale of Genji, "The Sakaki Chapter" depicts Hikaru Genji visiting the Lady Rokujo as she prepares to go to Ise with her daughter. Worshippers from all over Japan visit to pray for good relationships and for fertility and safe childbirth. Near the main sanctuary is the "Okame Stone," and it is said that if you pray while stroking it, your wish will be fulfilled within one year. Nonomiya Shrine is located along the Bamboo Grove Path, famous as a photogenic spot, and it draws many tourists.