Ryuji Kagami will guide you to the shrines, temples and power spots of Kansai, where you can recover from illness and ward off epidemics.

Ryuji Kagami

Born in Kyoto in 1968. Psychological astrology researcher and translator. Introduced astrology with a psychological approach to Japan, solidifying her position as a leading astrology expert and becoming an indispensable presence in the fortune-telling features of general women's magazines. Her hobbies are cooking and collecting old books. Her favorite things are red wine, meat, and England.

The origin of the term "power spot"

The term "power spot" is a Japanese-English word that does not exist in English-speaking countries. The term "power center" appeared in a British novel in the 1930s, but it seems to have a stronger connotation of a sacred place. In Japan, "power spots" are used to refer to mystical places where one can receive some kind of blessing.

Kansai is a treasure trove of power spots. This is probably because the capital was built in Kyoto with an emphasis on feng shui. Starting with Kyoto, which is home to many historic shrines and temples and is a city filled with power, there are many spots throughout Kansai that retain the power and soul of the land. There is sure to be something there that will fill your heart and guide you into the future.

Mount Kurama (Kyoto): A mysterious sacred mountain where the power of the universe gathers

Mount Kurama is the head temple of the Kurama Kokyo sect and the mountain where the legend of Kurama Tengu lies. It is said that Goho Maoson, who is said to have flown from Venus to save mankind about 6.5 million years ago, is the leader of the Tengu.

The main hall is the central training center for the worship of Mount Kurama, and enshrines the Three Deities (Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva, Bishamonten, and Goho Maoson). The Kongo-doko in front of it is said to be the place where the power of the universe descends.

It is said that the power of Mount Kurama is strongest at Shoundai, a huge rock located opposite the main hall of the temple. This is the place where the principal image of the deity descended to protect the northern part of the capital. You cannot set foot on the rock, but if you want to feel the power of Mount Kurama to the fullest, be sure to stop by nearby.

And when talking about Mount Kurama, we must not forget the legend of Minamoto no Yoshitsune. At the end of the Heian period, the warrior monks of Kurama Temple were praised as the bravest of all. It was there that Minamoto no Yoshitsune (childhood name: Ushiwakamaru) learned swordsmanship from the Tengu and trained.

It is said that this Sojo-ga-tani Fudodo was one of the places where Ushiwakamaru underwent training. This place is somewhat dim even during the day, and it exudes a mysterious atmosphere as if it leads to another world.

Kurama Temple

The trigger for the development of Yasaka Shrine (Kyoto) was the prevention of an epidemic

Kyoto has a history of Onmyodo, and the whole city is filled with power, making it a fantastical place. Yasaka Shrine was called "Kanshin-in" or "Gion-sha" until May 30, 1868, when the shrine officials renamed it Yasaka Shrine.

The trigger for the development of Yasaka Shrine is said to be an incident that occurred during the epidemic in the first year of the Gangyo era (877). Prayers and offerings were made at various places but to no avail, so fortune-telling was performed again and prayers were offered at this place, which is how the epidemic was stopped.

Yasaka Shrine enshrines many gods, including the god of beauty, the god of marriage, and the god of prosperity in business, but as the shrine's development was fueled by its role in stopping an epidemic, it also has a shrine dedicated to the god of protection from epidemics. It's a must-visit place to visit during the current coronavirus pandemic.

Yasaka Shrine

Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine (Kyoto) - Protect yourself from misfortune with the power of the gods and "purifying sand"

Kamo Wakeikazuchi Shrine is located upstream of the Kamo River. It is popularly known as "Kamigamo Shrine" or "Kamisha." This shrine enshrines the god Kamo Wakeikazuchi-no-Okami, who protects against misfortune.

The first thing that catches the eye of worshippers who pass through the second torii gate is the large pile of sand in front of the Hosoden shrine. This is called Tatesuna. The name comes from the word "standing" (standing), which refers to the appearance of the gods, and from the cone-shaped sacred mountain located about 2km behind the main shrine, which is the abode of the gods in ancient rituals. The custom of scattering sand in the demon's gate and urakimon (back gate) to purify the area is said to have originated from Tatesuna.

When you look around the shrine buildings of Kamigamo Shrine, you will notice that metal fittings engraved with the two-leaf hollyhock pattern are displayed here and there. The word hollyhock was read as "afuhi" in ancient times, with "hi" meaning god, and hollyhock represents "meeting with god."

When the enshrined deity descended from the heavens, a divine message was heard saying, "Decorate the shrine with hollyhocks and hold a festival." So the hollyhock was displayed on the shrine grounds as the divine crest, and it has been treasured and protected as a plant that connects gods and people.

The most important ritual at Kamigamo Shrine is the Kamo Festival. It is also called the Aoi Festival because the shrine is decorated with hollyhocks and the festival attendants wear them. The same ritual is also held at the Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kamo Mioya Shrine (Shimogamo Shrine).

The various ceremonies, such as the "Imperial Recitation of Texts," "Horseback Riding," and "Azuma-yu," which are carried out in the same manner as in the past, are as magnificent as a picture scroll from the imperial court.

Kamigamo Shrine

Tofukuji Temple subtemple Shorinji (Kyoto) - Amulets inspired by Amabie ward off epidemics

When you think of Shorin-ji Temple, a subtemple of Tofuku-ji Temple, you think of Bishamonten. Shorin-ji Temple is one of the subtemples of Tofuku-ji Temple, and was founded as Shorin-an by the Zen master Takaoka Reisho in Tenbun 19 (1550). It is located in the demon's direction (north) of the main temple Tofuku-ji Temple, and is known as "Tofuku-ji Temple's Bishamonten" because it protects Buddhism and the north.

Within the grounds stands a stone tower filled with the complete Buddhist scriptures. In order to prove its authenticity as a Bishamon-do temple, the temple is also characterized by its numerous paintings and Buddhist statues. In addition to the principal image of the temple, the secret standing statue of Bishamonten, the temple is also decorated with rare Bishamonten mandalas, a Kissho-sonten statue, and a large sliding door painting of a dynamic tiger.

The Bishamonten statue is especially said to bring good fortune in terms of wealth, victory, and protection from misfortune. The Kisshosonten statue is said to be the god of beauty and happiness, and is said to bestow these blessings on women. In the past, maiko from Gion could be seen visiting the shrine, and even today it attracts the faith of many women.

In the garden, beautiful trees and flowers welcome visitors throughout the year, so you will never tire of visiting. In the spring, you can see the "Kousakura" cherry tree, which was planted when Emperor Gosakuramachi visited the temple, and in the fall, you can see the "Kissho Momiji," which is said to be home to the goddess Kisshoten due to the beauty of its autumn leaves. Not only are the plants beautiful, but each one has a story to tell.

In addition, there are plenty of things to do, such as Zen meditation, stamps, talismans, and amulets. The "plague-repelling amulet," which is a talisman to ward off the new coronavirus, features a design inspired by Amabie. It can also be purchased online, so why not take a look?

Shorinji Temple

Kifune Shrine (Kyoto) - The pure sacred water will give you healing and power

Kifune Shrine is famous as the god of marriage. But did you know that there is a dragon hole where the energy of the earth gushes out? Kifune was once called "Kifune" and, as its name suggests, was the source of the energy that was born.

Kifune Shrine has three shrines: the main shrine, the Yuisha shrine, and the inner shrine. From the stone wall in front of the main shrine, the sacred water that springs from the sacred mountain, Mt. Kifune, flows. This sacred water can be collected for free, so be sure to drink it to receive the full power of Kifune Shrine. Also, the Mizuuran Omikuji, where you dip a fortune slip into this sacred water to tell your fortune, is apparently gaining in popularity.

The shrine with the long history of matchmaking is the Yuisha. The matchmaking power here is so outstanding that there is an anecdote that the famous Heian period poet, Izumi Shikibu, visited the shrine to pray and win back the heart of her husband with whom she had been in a quarrel. The shrine is said to grant good matches in various situations, including matchmaking between men and women, between people, and the granting of children.

Of the three shrines, the main shrine, the Yuisha shrine, and the inner shrine, the inner shrine is the oldest and most mysterious. There is a legendary dragon hole under the main hall of the inner shrine, and it is said that a dragon living underground protects this land. When you actually visit, you will feel a mysterious sensation, as if you are enveloped in something.

The current site of Okumiya Shrine is said to be where Emperor Jimmu's mother, Tamayorihime, boarded a yellow boat in search of a water source, sailing up the Yodo River and Kamo River. On the west side of the main shrine is a boat-shaped rock, which is said to have been used to cover the yellow boat Tamayorihime came in with pebbles. In fact, there is a theory that power emanates from here, making this a power spot colored by mysterious legends.

Kifune Shrine

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Asuka Historical Park Kitora Tomb (Nara): Authentic astronomical charts and beautiful paintings of the four gods guarding the four directions

Kitora Tomb is the second continental-style mural tomb discovered in Japan after Takamatsuzuka Tomb. On November 7, 1983, one of the painted murals inside the stone chamber, Genbu, was discovered, and it attracted a great deal of attention not only from the public and academic circles, but also from the fortune-telling world.

The four gods - Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise - symbolize the directions in Feng Shui and are also related to Shukuyo astrology.

A simplified version of the starry sky, the "Hoshi-shuku-zu," can also be found in the Takamatsuzuka Tomb within Asuka Historical Park, and is a valuable resource for the Shukuyo astrology that was transmitted from India to China.

Kitora Tomb Mural Experience Center, House of the Four Gods (Asuka National Historic Park)

Hattori Tenjin Shrine (Osaka) - This is the place to pray for recovery from illnesses, including feet.

Hattori Tenjin Shrine is famous in the Kansai region as the "god of feet." The reason for this is said to be the relationship between Sukunahikona no Mikoto, who is enshrined at the shrine, and Sugawara no Michizane.

Sugawara no Michizane was demoted for a crime he did not commit and was on his way to Dazaifu in Kyushu. Near Hattori Tenjingu Shrine, he was afflicted by his chronic beriberi and was unable to move even one step. At that time, the villagers living in the area recommended that he visit Tenjin Shrine (later known as Hattori Tenjingu Shrine), which enshrines Sukunahikona, the god of medicine.

It is said that when Sugawara no Michizane prayed there for healing of his leg, his condition was cured and he was able to reach Dazaifu in Kyushu safely.

Due to this history, Hattori Tenjingu became known as the shrine for the god of feet, and even today many people visit the shrine to pray for healing of feet and other ailments.

When you have fully recovered from your illness and wish to give thanks, be sure to offer a new pair of sandals to the Zori-do Hall and express your gratitude.

Within the grounds, there is also the Toyonaka Ebisu Shrine, which enshrines Ebisu, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, and the god of prosperity in business. If you want to improve your luck at work, be sure to visit the shrine.

Hattori Tenjin Shrine

Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei (Shiga): A temple that prays for world peace and tranquility

Mount Hiei is located on the border between Kyoto and Shiga prefectures. It is a scenic spot with a panoramic view of Lake Biwa to the east and the streets of the ancient capital of Kyoto to the west. In fact, "Enryaku-ji Temple" is the general name for about 100 temple buildings scattered across the 1,700 hectare grounds on Mount Hiei. There is not a single building called Enryaku-ji Temple.

Saicho, the founder of the Tendai sect in Japan, chose Mount Hiei as the best place to leave behind the paths of fame and power, keep his mind pure, and improve himself. June 4, 2021 marks the 1,200th anniversary of the death of Dengyo Daishi Saicho.

In the 7th year of the Enryaku era (788), Saicho built a small hall called Ichijo Shikan-in (later known as Konponchudo) on Mount Hiei. He placed a statue of Yakushi Nyorai that he had carved himself there and lit a lamp.

It is said that a single lamp was lit in front of the Yakushi Nyorai treasure house with the hope that "just as this lamp will be passed down by many people and continue to shine brightly on the surrounding area, so that the Buddha's teachings will be protected and passed down by people even in an age without the Buddha, and will continue to provide warm illumination for people."

For over 1,200 years since then, this lamp, known as the "Eternal Flame of the Law," has continued to burn uninterrupted in the Konponchudo Hall of Mount Hiei.

Saicho visited China and studied Tendai Buddhism, and after returning to Japan, he performed a prayer for Emperor Kanmu's recovery using esoteric Buddhism. For this reason, Enryakuji Temple on Mount Hiei is a must-visit spot in the current times when Japan is plagued by epidemics.

Enryakuji Temple, Mount Hiei

Kumano Sanzan (Wakayama): A mysterious place recognized by the world

The Kumano Sanzan refers to the three shrines of Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha, and one temple, Nachisan Seiganto-ji.

The southern part of the Kii Peninsula is a unique sacred area where the spirits of gods reside, and has been collectively known as "Kumano" since ancient times. The Kumano Sanzan shrines are considered a sacred place of gods and Buddhas that has nurtured a variety of forms of faith, including Shintoism, which is rooted in nature worship, Buddhism, which was brought from abroad, and Shugendo, a combination of the two.

If you visit the Kumano Sanzan shrines, you will notice that there are three-legged crows painted everywhere. These crows are the Yatagarasu, messengers of the gods.

When Emperor Jimmu arrived in Kumano, the Yatagarasu descended and guided him on the way to Nara, and so it came to be worshipped as a "divine guiding bird" common to the Kumano Sanzan shrines. Today, it is sometimes depicted on the uniforms of players and referees as the symbol of the Japan Football Association.

Additionally, Nachi Falls, which has been revered by people as the object of worship for Hiro Shrine, an auxiliary shrine of Kumano Nachi Taisha, is also a spot that cannot be missed if you visit the Kumano Sanzan.

With a drop of 133m, a width of 13m at the mouth, and a depth of 10m at the base of the falls, this is the most famous waterfall in Japan, and is also known as "Ichinotaki" (first waterfall). Every year in July and December, a Shinto ritual is held to worship this waterfall as the object of worship at Tobitaki Shrine, and to replace the sacred rope.

Kumano Sanzan (Kumano Sanzan Council Secretariat)

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Nishinomiya Shrine (Hyogo) is famous for its running pilgrimage and the "Opening Ceremony Lucky Man Selection"

Nishinomiya Shrine is the head shrine of the Shinto shrines that worship Ebisu-sama, the god of good fortune. The main gate, also known as the "Red Gate," is a relic of Momoyama architecture, and is impressive with its vivid vermilion paintwork. Along with the large lacquered walls on either side of it, it has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

Nishinomiya Shrine is known nationwide for the "Toka Ebisu" festival, which is held on January 9th, 10th, and 11th every year to pray for prosperity in business and safety in the home, and is crowded with one million worshippers every year. In particular, the running pilgrimage to the shrine at the opening of the gates is famous as the "selection of the lucky man." Many people may have seen it on television or in the newspapers.

As you pass through the Temizuya (purification fountain), you will see the roof of the main hall, which has a rare triple Kasuga-zukuri structure. In front of the main hall and worship hall, there is a shrine office and gift shop, and inside there is the "Ebisu Faith Materials Exhibition Room," where you can see statues of Ebisu, sacred portraits, clay bells, and more that have been collected from all over Japan.

Then, when you go up to the worship hall with its vivid red pillars, you will finally be able to see the three shrines directly in front of you. From the right, the first shrine (east) enshrines Ebisu Okami (Hiruko Okami), the second shrine in the center enshrines Amaterasu Oomikami and Okuninushi Okami, and the third shrine (west) enshrines Susanoo Okami.

Nishinomiya Shrine is the perfect place to visit at turning points in life, as it hosts many festivals throughout the year, as well as ceremonies for the first shrine visit of the year and Shichigosan, as well as prayers and warding off evil spirits.

Nishinomiya Shrine

In modern times, we can travel anywhere and choose our favorite gods. However, religion is originally something that is closely related to the local area and is personal. When we visit power spots today, the most important thing is to respect traditional sacred places and observe proper manners.

If you are going to visit a place, it will be much more enjoyable if you know about the history, culture, and stories unique to that place. Try visiting power spots not only to receive their power and blessings, but also as a form of travel.

*Some content was updated on October 6, 2022.

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