Table of Contents
What is Umemiya-taisha Shrine?
Umemiya-taisha is a historic shrine believed to have been founded around 750 (Nara Period). Originally located in the southern part of Kyoto Prefecture, it was moved to its present location during the Heian period (794-1185) by Empress Danrin, Empress of Emperor Saga. The shrine enshrines the god of sake brewing and the god of childbirth and safe delivery, and is visited by many worshippers.
Basic Information
| Name | Umemiya Taisha Shrine |
| Benefit | Birthing a child, safe delivery |
| Hours of operation | 9:00-17:00 (Registration closes at 16:30) |
| Admission fee | Adults 600 yen, children 400 yen |
| Parking lot | Free parking (20 cars) |
| Location | 30 Fukenokawa-cho, Umezu, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 615-0921 |
| Phone: +81-75-861-2730 | 075-861-2730 |
| Official website | http://www.umenomiya.or.jp/ |
Features and Highlights
- Historic garden and temple
- Adorable cats
- Shrine garden with seasonal flowers in full bloom
- An ethereal tea ceremony room
The garden “Shinen”: The vast Shinen Garden, covering an area of 3,000 tsubo (about 1,860 square meters), is known as one of the most famous gardens in Kyoto. The garden is filled with seasonal flowers, such as kakitsubata and irises in spring, hydrangeas in summer, and plum blossoms in early spring.
Tea Ceremony Room “Ikechu-tei”: In the Shinen Garden, there is a tea ceremony room “Ikechu-tei” which is a remnant of the former villa of the King’s Lord and Noble Gentlemen. The thatched roof with ashes gives the tea room a unique atmosphere. It is usually closed to the public, but on special occasions it is open to the public.
Cats: Many cats live in Umemiya Taisha Shrine. Some cats meow and try to enter the shrine office, while others lounge on benches. This is a must-see spot for cat lovers.
How to access
- Take the bus to ” Umemiya Taisha-mae ” and walk 3 minutes.
- Get off at Matsuo Taisha Station on the Hankyu Railway and walk 13 minutes.
- Approximately 30 minutes by car from the Kyoto Minami IC of Meishin Expressway
Parking lot: 20 cars (free of charge)
Summary
Umemiya Taisha is a unique shrine that harmonizes history, nature, and adorable cats. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the beautiful garden, interacting with the cats, and soaking in the sacred atmosphere. Please visit the shrine when sightseeing in Kyoto.
