Gokounomiya Shrine

Gokōnomiya Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, widely known as a guardian for safe childbirth. The principal enshrined deity is Empress Jingū, along with six other deities. The founding year is unknown, but in 862 a pleasantly fragrant spring is said to have emerged within the grounds, and Emperor Seiwa bestowed the name "Gokōnomiya" upon the shrine. The water is counted among the Seven Famous Springs of Fushimi, and it is said that Tokugawa Yoriharu, Yorifusa, and Yoshinao used it for their first bath as newborns. Today, it is selected as one of Japan’s "100 Famous Waters" and many people visit to draw water. The worship hall was donated by Tokugawa Yoriharu, and the main sanctuary was rebuilt by Tokugawa Ieyasu, reflecting the shrine’s deep Tokugawa connections. A stone garden originally created by Kobori Enshū within the Fushimi Magistrate’s Office—where he served after the Siege of Osaka—was relocated after the war and can be seen behind the shrine office. Because Empress Jingū is revered as a deity of safe delivery, many visitors come here to pray for childbirth. The shrine is located in the Fushimi-Momoyama area and is about a 5-minute walk from Keihan Fushimi-Momoyama Station, Kintetsu Momoyama-Goryōmae Station, or JR Momoyama Station.