On a priest-led tour of a 2000-year-old Shinto shrine, dive deep into ancient culture
1.5 hour private experience
Location: Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Join a Shinto priest at Shimogamo Shrine, one of Japan's oldest, for a private tour of the shrine grounds. Learn about the history and details of the shrine, including its historic connection with Japan's Imperial family. Enter areas normally off-limits to visitors, then watch a 12-layer kimono dance accompanied by live instrumental performance.
Availability
Everyday
Session 1 (09:00 - 10:30)
Session 2 (10:30 - 12:00)
Session 3 (13:30 - 15:00)
Session 4 (15:00 - 16:30)
Access
25 minutes by car from Kyoto Station
Imperial Spirituality
Shrouded in forest, only the towering torii gates at the entrance reveal the location of Shimogamo Shrine—one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines with a history extending over 2,000 years. Once reserved exclusively for the Imperial family to offer prayers for the nation’s protection, its doors opened to the public in the Meiji era, allowing all to worship the shrine’s deities. Chronicled in Japan’s most revered classical works, from The Tale of Genji to The Pillow Book, Shimogamo Shrine played a central role in the cultural and spiritual life of the Heian court. Today, as part of Kyoto’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, it remains a living testament to Japan’s ancient traditions. On a private guided tour, join one of the shrine’s priests to explore the sacred grounds, including areas typically closed to visitors. Within these hidden spaces, experience the artistry of aristocratic culture brought vividly to life through the junihitoe no mai—a dance performed in the elegant twelve-layered kimono once worn by noblewomen. Both a visual and spiritual spectacle, this rare performance offers a glimpse into the refined beauty and timeless rituals that have shaped Japanese culture for over a millennium.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 7 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
