Kitano Tenmangu to Hirano Shrine
Kita no Tenmangu Shrine - Hirano Shrine - Kamishichiken 北野天満宮～平野神社～上七軒
Overview
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a patron shrine of students – hence, many young people flock to it – is famous for its fabulous plum trees, and hosts a wonderful outdoor flea market on the 25th of every month. It was built in 947 C.E. and dedicated to the scholar Michizane - thus the connection to scholarship.
Adjacent to it is the small licensed geisha quarter known as Kamishichiken. Hisrtorically its patrons have come from nearby Nishijin, the city's weaving district. Kamishichiken is the oldest hanamachi (geisha district) in Kyoto. The name Kamishichiken means "Seven Upper Houses," which refers to the seven original teahouses built from leftover equipment and materials when Kitano Shrine was being rebuilt. Today there are roughly 25 maiko and geiko in Kamishichiken, who work in the 11 teahouses.
Hirano Shrine is a short distance north close to Ritsumeikan University. It is a favorite spot for cherry viewing that was founded in 794 C.E. by Emperor Kammu. Hirano has always maintained ties with the Imperial family. The shrine's cherry blossom festival has been held every year since 985.
Getting to the Starting Point
If you are coming from downtown, ride up Teramachi to Gosho (Imperial Palace). Ride through Gosho and exit anywhere on your left (west) as you head north. When you get to Horikawa Dori – a wide boulevard with a river/walkway below street level – turn right up this and use the bike lanes on the sidewalk. Ride until you get to Teranouchi Dori. Turn left. This route will take you past Myorenji Temple and then through the Nishijin weaving area.
This ride will take about 30 minutes – and is only one way of getting there.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
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Good luck charms
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Directions (Map Below)
From Hirano Shrine, Kitano Shrine is south 5 minutes. The Kamishichiken Geisha area is due east down a side street.
Kinkakuji Temple is just a bit north of Hirano Shrine for those with the time.
Total Riding Time
One hour riding time from the City Hall to Hirano Shrine.
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| Hirano Shrine | Tea House, Kamishichiken |
Video
Kita no Tenmangu Area Video
To see, click here.
More Information
Kita no Tenmangu Shrine
075 461 0005
Entrance Fee: 400 yen
Hirano Shrine
Hirano Miyamoto-cho 1, Kita-ku, Kyoto
075 461 4450
Entrance Fee: 500 yen
Kitano Onsen (public bath)
075 461 3817
Entrance Fee: 410 yen
Map
Kitano Tenmangu - Kamishichiken - Hirano Shrine Route
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