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Another bus ride across northern Kyoto brought me to Shimogamo Shrine, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan. The shrine dates back to the 6th century and after Kyoto was made Japan’s capital in 794 Shimogamo became the recipient of Imperial patronage. Shimogamo is one of the two Kamo Shrines of Kyoto that are dedicated to venerating Shinto deities that protected the city. The other Kamo Shrine is Kamigamo Shrine, which is about 3.5 km northwest from Shimogamo.
In the eastern part of Shimogamo Shrine is a small stream where you can have your fortune told. After purchasing a fortune paper you wash the paper in the stream and the words will become visible.
Photography of the shrine’s inner area is not permitted but I was able to get one photo from the inner courtyard. There was some sort of ceremony for children going on when I visited Shimogamo Shrine and I remember a priest was giving a blessing and gifts to several kids that were in attendance.
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