Kusugutani Hitsuno Shrine

Upon entering the gate, on your left is a tree with a large sign that reads “sacred”, a typical feature of shrines. With the clear blue sky cast over the shrine, one can truly feel the holy powers that reside within.

In front of Kusugutani Hitsuno Kasuga Shrine, or Kasugataisha for short, a deer statue greets you as it stands under a carport-like roof, shielded from the rain; a thoughtful gesture from the shrine priests.

Nearby, lie the ruins of the Kamosaiin, the royal princess’s headquarters; climb up the stone steps and you’ll reach the offering box where the god that binds marriages resides.

If you look closer, you can see an inscription written on how to pray for romance in an already fizzled relationship; an attraction that surprisingly draws in more men than women.

Although most Japanese shy away from expressing their romantic feelings in public, that doesn't mean you shouldn't give it a shot!

To get to Kusugutani Hitsuno Shrine by car, go up Omiya-dori Rozanji, make a left onto Horikawa kamigoryo-dori (one street south of Shimei-dori), then stay on Omiya street until the street curves.

For those taking the train, from Kyoto station, hop on the number nine Kyoto city bus bound for Nishigamo Shako-mae and ride it for about 25 minutes. Then get off at Tenji Koen-mae and walk for about 10 minutes.