Seimei Shrine is located in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto. The shrine enshrines Abe no Seimei, an Onmyoji (astronomer) of the mid-Heian period, and is visited by many people as a power spot steeped in numerous Seimei legends.
Seimei, who served six emperors, established his own “Onmyo-do” based on the astronomical calendar science of the time. He made many fortunes and predictions, such as predicting the abdication of Emperor Hanayama based on sudden changes in the constellations, and contributed to the Imperial Court’s ritual administration. In 1007, Emperor Ichijo established Seimei Shrine in honor of his achievements.
The shrine is said to have a rare star-shaped crest on the main shrine and other buildings, representing all things in the universe. In the precincts of the shrine, there is a spring called “Seimei Water,” which is said to cure intractable diseases.
On the eve of the autumnal equinox and on the day of the autumnal equinox, the “Seimei Festival” is held, with Yutate Kagura (Shinto music and dance), drum and fife bands, float carts, and parades of decorated horses, making the shrine a lively place.
9:00-18:00
No holidays
Free of charge
Pay parking
City Bus
From JR Kyoto Station
No. 9 “Ichijo-Moribashi, Seimei-jinja-mae” stop. 2 min. walk.
From Hankyu Karasuma Station or Subway Shijo Station
No.12 “Ichijo Haribashi/Seimei Jinja-mae” stop, approx. 2 min. walk.
From Keihan Sanjo Station
No.59 “Horikawa-imadegawa” stop, approx. 2 min. walk.
Subway
From Imadegawa Station, approx. 12 min. on foot.
Cab
Approx. 20 minutes from Kyoto Station