Ushioni, Kyoto — Travelrags

Atlas ObscuraDec 31, 2025

Kifune Shrine in Kyoto, Japan

Located in a wooded gorge between Mounts Kibune and Kurama, the ancient Kifune Shrine is one of the most revered shrines in Kyoto, dedicated to the water god Taka-okami-no-kami and deeply associated with wish-making. Though it is most famed for its photogenic stairway lined with lanterns and autumn foliage, the shrine is steeped in history and folklore, both auspicious and dark. For one, Kifune…

sub-shrine dedicated to the 'ox demon'

9 things in this story

Kifune ShrinePlace of worshipdedicated to water god Taka-okami-no-kami
Mount KuramaSightIt is the birthplace of the Reiki practice, and is said to be the home of Sōjōbō, King of the Tengu.
Mounts Kibune and KuramaPlaceshrine located in wooded gorge between them
Ushi-no-toki-mairiPlacewell-known curse ritual performed at Hour of the Ox
UshioniPlacesub-shrine dedicated to the 'ox demon'
ema prayer boardsPlacebirthplace of these prayer boards
Mount KibuneSight
KanawaPlace
Mounts KibuneSight

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Ushioni

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Kifune Shrine in Kyoto, Japan