Yuki Shrine
Kyoto Prefecture · Japan
Yuki Shrine was actually built in central Kyoto, but in 940 AD was moved to Kurama to protect the area from mysterious evil. One of the highlights of this mountainous shrine is an 800-year-old cedar tree which towers over the shrine at 53m tall.
Contents
8 sections · tap a section for its opening lines1Orientation1:30
Welcome to Yuki Shrine, an essential spiritual waypoint located on the lower slopes of Mount Kurama. Established in the mid-10th century during a time of social upheaval and natural disasters, this shrine was originally moved…
Listen in the app2The Wari-haiden: Architecture of Integration1:17
As we approach the main structure of Yuki Shrine, you will notice something quite unusual: the hiking path actually goes through the middle of the offering hall. This is the 'Wari-haiden.' Constructed in the early 17th century at…
Listen in the app3The Giant Cedar (Osugi-san): A Living Deity1:07
Standing prominently near the main hall is the 'Osugi-san,' a towering Japanese cedar tree that is over 800 years old. In Shinto belief, ancient and impressive natural objects are often venerated as 'Goshintai'—the physical body…
Listen in the app4The Komainu and the Sanctuary Protectors1:04
Guarding the approach to the inner sanctum are the 'Komainu,' or lion-dogs. These stone statues are found at the entrance of almost every Shinto shrine, but the ones here at Yuki Shrine have a particularly spirited and weathered…
Listen in the app5The Spirit of the Fire Festival (Himatsuri)1:15
While the Kurama Fire Festival only happens once a year on October 22nd, its presence is felt year-round at Yuki Shrine. This festival is one of Kyoto's three major fire festivals and is a truly visceral experience. …
Listen in the app6The Stone Path and Lanterns of Devotion1:06
The path through Yuki Shrine is lined with stone lanterns, or 'toro.' These were traditionally donated by individuals or businesses as acts of devotion or in thanks for answered prayers. Each lantern bears the name of its donor,…
Listen in the app7The Transition to the Higher Slopes1:09
As we move past the upper edge of Yuki Shrine, the path begins to climb more steeply toward the main hall of Kurama-dera. This area marks the transition from the Shinto-focused guardian shrine to the Buddhist-focused heart of the…
Listen in the app8Closing1:07
Our exploration of Yuki Shrine has revealed a site where history, nature, and community are inextricably linked. From the unique 'Wari-haiden' architecture that invites the traveler into its heart, to the 800-year-old cedar that…
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What is Yuki Shrine?
Yuki Shrine is a place in Kyoto Prefecture · Japan with 8 story sections on Tellby. You can read the opening of each section on this page; the sound plays in the app.
| Location | Kyoto Prefecture · Japan |
|---|---|
| Type | Heritage |
| Story sections | 8 |
| Total length | 9 min 35 s in all |
| Text language | English |
| Coordinates | 35.1159, 135.7717 |
| Last updated |
