Goo Shrine (護王神社)

Flow of the course

About this spot

This shrine stands west of Kyoto Gyoen, facing Karasuma-dori Street. At the entrance to the approach you will find a pair of boar statues rather than the usual lion-dogs, and boars large and small also appear around the main hall. It enshrines Wake no Kiyomaro and is known for protecting the legs and lower back, which makes it a fitting place to pray for a family about to spend the day on foot. The grounds are compact and easy to walk around, and children can turn it into a game of seeing how many boars they can find. Kyoto Gyoen is just across Karasuma-dori Street, so you can move straight on to the next stop.

Tips

It is within walking distance of Marutamachi Station on the Karasuma Subway Line, and the Hamaguri-gomon Gate of the garden is close by. There is nowhere to eat or drink on the grounds, so bring drinks with you beforehand. Agreeing in advance to stay quiet during the visit makes for a calmer walk around. If you would like a goshuin seal stamp, check the shrine office hours to be sure.

Best time to visit

About 45 minutes. The morning, before the sun climbs high, is the most comfortable time of day.

Access & map

〒602-8011 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Kamigyo-ku, Karasuma-dori Shimochojamachi-sagaru, Okakuen-cho ３８５