Torii, entrance to Koretaka-jinja.
Kagura-den (Noh Stage) and Shrine.
Koretaka-jinja's existence dates-back to the year 867AD, when Prince Koretaka (844 - 897), the first son of Emperor Montoku retired to the area known as Kumogahata and, before long, became a Buddhist Monk, residing at the Koun-no-Miya Palace.
Prince Koretaka, as first son, was expected to inherit the throne but, the powerful Minister of the Right, Fujiwara no Yoshifusa, married his daughter to the Emperor, upon which his forth son, Prince Korehito (later Emperor Seiwa)was born. Because of pressure from Yoshifuse, Prince Koretaka was forced to give-up his claim to the throne and leave the capitol.
Prince Koretaka, as first son, was expected to inherit the throne but, the powerful Minister of the Right, Fujiwara no Yoshifusa, married his daughter to the Emperor, upon which his forth son, Prince Korehito (later Emperor Seiwa)was born. Because of pressure from Yoshifuse, Prince Koretaka was forced to give-up his claim to the throne and leave the capitol.
Koretaka-jinja was said to have been built by his retainers and villagers to honor his virtue in perpetuity.
Prince Koretaka is enshrined here.
Prince Koretaka is enshrined here.
The shrine is nestled-amongst the hills of the small hamlet of Kumogahata, a 30-drive from downtown Kyoto City.
Two Komainu stand guard over the entrance to the inner shrine.
Because the general blueprint of a Shinto shrine is Buddhist in origin, a small temple stands to the side of the complex.
The hamlet of Kumogahata is very popular amongst the outdoor enthusiast and, as-soon-as you arrive, you will understand why. Sajikigatake (Mt Sajiki) is only a few hours hike away, as well as many other tracks for you to explore.
There are two bus-services per day, leaving from Kitaoji Station in Kyoto City. It's a 30-minute ride, costing you the sum total of ¥500. As there is 6-hours between the two services, you have ample time to explore the area. Bring adequate food & drink (there is a traditional Japanese restaurant next to the shrine), as-well-as appropriate clothing.
There are two bus-services per day, leaving from Kitaoji Station in Kyoto City. It's a 30-minute ride, costing you the sum total of ¥500. As there is 6-hours between the two services, you have ample time to explore the area. Bring adequate food & drink (there is a traditional Japanese restaurant next to the shrine), as-well-as appropriate clothing.