Ichitani Munakata Shrine, Shinto shrine in Nishikyō-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Ichitani Munakata Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Nishikyō-ku, Kyoto, near the south end of Togetsukyō Bridge. It enshrines two deities in one hall: Okitsushima-hime of Ichitani-sha and Ichikishima-hime of Munakata-sha. Both are among the Matsuo Seven Shrines and are subordinate shrines of Matsuo Taisha.
The shrine's founding date is unknown; its own tradition dates it to 668, when the Munakata deity was invited from Tsukushi Province. Ichitani Shrine appears in the 927 Engishiki register of shrines, and records of 848 and 868 note its court rank. Both shrines burned in 1241, and in 1878 they were designated subsidiary shrines of Matsuo Taisha.
The shrine combines two deities in one hall: Okitsushima-hime of Ichitani-sha and Ichikishima-hime of Munakata-sha, both water deities. The shrine's own tradition says they were invited from Munakata in Kyushu in 668. The name Ichitani may refer to the small valley just west of the shrine. Both shrines count among the Matsuo Seven Shrines, and Ichitani among the Matsuo Three Shrines with Matsuo and Tsukuyomi.
The shrine stands near the south end of Togetsukyo Bridge, where the Katsura River leaves Hozu Gorge and slows. It is a small site with no large crowds, so it can be visited quickly. The surrounding paths lead toward Mount Arashiyama and Iwatayama Monkey Park.
The shrine sits on a hidden forest path that many visitors simply pass by on their way to the Iwatayama Monkey Park without noticing it. This location makes it a quiet retreat for those who intentionally stop to explore the river landscape and local spirituality.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 94,440 contributors worldwide.