Kyoto > Yoshida Jinja (吉田神社): The Hilltop Shrine Tourists Skip”
※Description:
When tourists wander or plan a trip to Kyoto, they always overlook one of the most beautiful and least crowded spots in central Kyoto.
Perched on a small, forested hill in Kyoto Prefecture, Yoshida Jinja (吉田神社) is a hidden Shinto shrine often overlooked by tourists despite its proximity to the iconic Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺) and Philosopher’s Path (哲学の道). Surrounded by lush greenery, this serene sanctuary offers a peaceful escape from Kyoto’s bustling landmarks “a secret atop a gentle climb”. Known for its Setsubun festival in February, when locals flock for blessings and to ward off evil, it remains a quiet gem most of the year, perfect for those seeking solitude amid nature.
Discover a secret temple in Kyoto. A temple with no tourists.
A Brief History of Yoshida Jinja
Founded in 859 by the Fujiwara clan, Yoshida Jinja (吉田神社) was established to enshrine the deities of the four directions, protecting Kyoto’s imperial capital. Its unique role in Shinto history includes housing the Daigenkyu (大元宮), a rare shrine venerating all 3,132 kami listed in Japan’s ancient Engi-shiki texts “a spiritual archive”. The shrine’s hilltop setting and rustic charm have preserved its tranquil aura, even as Kyoto grew into a tourist hub.
Exploring the Shrine and Surroundings
Visiting Yoshida Jinja (吉田神社) feels like stepping into a forgotten corner of Kyoto. A short climb up stone steps leads to the main hall, framed by cedar trees and mossy paths “a whisper of old Japan”. The shrine’s grounds are compact but inviting, with smaller sub-shrines and a panoramic view of the city from the hilltop. Unlike Kyoto’s crowded hotspots, it sees few visitors, offering a meditative retreat. Come in early spring for subtle cherry blossoms or autumn for fiery maples. The nearby Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺) and Philosopher’s Path (哲学の道) are just a 15-minute walk, making it an easy detour from Kyoto’s tourist trail.
Nearby Attractions
Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) (銀閣寺): A Zen temple with elegant gardens, just a 15-minute walk from the shrine, known for its serene beauty.
Philosopher’s Path (哲学の道): A tranquil canal-side walk lined with cherry trees, perfect for reflective strolls, also 15 minutes away.
Arashiyama (嵐山): A scenic district with a bamboo grove, temples, and Togetsukyo Bridge, reachable by train from Kyoto.
Kinkaku-ji (金閣寺): The Golden Pavilion, a dazzling Zen temple covered in gold leaf, reflecting on a serene pond.
Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稲荷大社): Famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up a sacred mountain.
Kiyomizu-dera (清水寺): A UNESCO World Heritage temple with a wooden stage offering sweeping views of Kyoto.
※NTRanking: 7.5 / 10
Yoshida Jinja (吉田神社) shines for its off-the-beaten-path charm and lush hilltop setting. Ignored by most tourists rushing to Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺) or Philosopher’s Path (哲学の道), it offers near-empty grounds and a calming vibe. Its lesser fame and modest size keep it from a higher score, but the tranquility is unmatched.
※How to Get There:
・From Kyoto Station (approximately 25 minutes):
Take Kyoto City Bus #206 from Kyoto Station (京都駅) to Hyakumanben (百万遍) bus stop, which takes about 20 minutes.
Walk 5 minutes east to the shrine’s entrance.
・From Ginkaku-ji (approximately 15 minutes):
Walk 15 minutes southwest from Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺) along the Philosopher’s Path (哲学の道) to Yoshida Jinja (吉田神社).
・From Osaka (approximately 1 hour):
Take the JR Tokaido Line from Osaka Station (大阪駅) to Kyoto Station (京都駅), which takes about 30 minutes.
From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus #206 to Hyakumanben (百万遍) bus stop (20 minutes).
Walk 5 minutes east to the shrine.
※Address:
30 Yoshidakaguraokacho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8311
