Charms and Fortunes, Oh my! Explore Kyoto’s Cute Omamori and Omikuji

Situated along the tranquil banks of the Uji River, Uji Shrine holds great historical and spiritual significance. Constructed during the Heian Period, it is dedicated to the worship of Uji-no-Waki-iratsuko, revered for his wisdom and dedication to learning. Visitors flock to Uji Shrine for its renowned Rabbit Charm (usagi omamori) and the legend of the Mikaeri-Usagi, “the looking back rabbit,” a divine messenger guiding people to the right path in life.

The rabbits are also associated with fertility and safe childbirth. Visitors often seek this charm for its blessings in guiding them toward their goals and bringing good karma.
Get the Rabbit Charm at the Uji Shrine, and let Mikaeri-Usagi’s divine guidance bring success and happiness to you.

Price:
500 yen per charm

Access:
7 minute walk from Uji Station on the Keihan Uji Line
15 minute walk from Uji Station on the JR Nara Line

Ujikami Shrine, a World Heritage Site, known for its ancient shrine architecture and profound spiritual ambiance. The history of the shrine dates back to the Heian period, and is a place associated with rabbits.

At Ujigami Shrine, visitors can draw a Rabbit Fortune (usagi omikuji), which reflects the Usagi. There are two types of fortune-tellers: pottery and “Hariko” (made of paper). These fortunes, inscribed on small slips of paper, reveal insights into various aspects of life, including love, health, and success. After getting your fortune, you can take the rabbit figurine home as a souvenir!

Embrace the wisdom of the Rabbit Fortune at Ujigami Shrine and let it illuminate your path.

Price:
500 yen per fortune

Access:
Walk 10 minutes from Uji Station on the Keihan Uji Line
Walk 20 minutes from Uji Station on the JR Nara Line

Mimuroto-ji Temple, often called the “Temple of Flowers,” is renowned for its spectacular gardens. Located in Uji City, this temple is a haven for flower enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike. Stroll through the gardens at Mimuroto-ji Temple, especially during the hydrangea season in June. You’ll be immersed in a vibrant sea of hydrangeas.

The Heart Hydrangea Charm (Hāto Ajisai Omamori) is a unique offering from Mimuroto-ji Temple. The charm’s design, featuring delicate hydrangeas, is beautiful and meaningful, embodying the temple’s serene and floral atmosphere. This charm is wonderful as a souvenir or as an accessory for your bag.
Make your way to Mimuroto-ji Temple to grab the Heart Hydrangea Charm and let the flowers bring you peace and prosperity.

Price:
1,000 yen per charm
Admission Fee: Adults 1000 yen　Children 500 yen

Access:
15 minute walk (or take a taxi) from Mimurodo Station on the Keihan Line.

In Kameoka City, Izumo Dai-jingu Shrine stands as a testament to ancient legends and divine virtues. It is known for its association with the god Okuninushi no Mikoto, a compassionate deity also known as the Inaba-no-moto rabbit.

At Izumo Dai-jingu Shrine, you will find two charming omikuji. One depicts Okuninushi no Mikoto, and the other features a rabbit. These delightful ceramic figures each contain a fortune. The rabbit figurines, often in soft pink with gold accents, symbolize Okuninushi’s connection to the rabbit. These charms represent the 3 great divine virtues of the shine: longevity, matchmaking, and financial luck.

So go draw a fortune at Izumo Dai-jingu Shrine and let the divine blessings guide you towards love and harmony.

Price:
300 yen per fortune

Access:
Take the Keihan Kyoto Kotsu Bus from the North exit of JR Kameoka Stn. to “Izumo Dai-jingu-mae” bus stop.

Motoise Kono Shrine is located in Miyazu City, near the scenic Amanohashidate. This shrine holds a deep historical and cultural significance and is considered one of the most important in Japan’s history, with its origins linked to the Ise Grand Shrine in Mie Prefecture.

The Tenganmamori Charm is a special offering at Motoise Kono Shrine. Its detailed embroidered motifs represent the four seasons of Amanohashidate. According to legend, Amanohashidate was formed by the deity Izanagi-no-mikoto as a pathway from the heavens. This charm is thought to carry your wishes to the heavens through this pathway. Holding it will remind you of the natural beauty you experienced in the region.

Visit Motoise Kono Shrine to obtain the Tenganmamori Charm and experience the timeless blessings it offers.

Price:
1000 yen per charm

Access:
5 minute walk from the north side of Amanohashidate

Chion-ji Temple, located near Amanohashidate, is a renowned temple dedicated to Monju Bosatsu, the Buddha of wisdom. It is famous for its association with academic success and wisdom, attracting students and scholars from across Japan.

The Folding Fan Fortune (Suehiro Sensu Omikuji) is a distinctive feature of Chion-ji Temple. These fortunes, designed as folding fans, symbolize the spread of good luck and wisdom. After drawing your fortune, many people to tie it to a pine tree within the temple grounds, creating a beautiful display of hope and aspirations. The fans tied all over the temple grounds look like flowers in bloom.

Experience the wisdom and elegance of the Folding Fan Fortune at Chion-ji Temple and let your dreams and goals flourish.

Price:
300 yen per fortune

Access:
5 minutes walk from Amanohashidate Station

Yanagidani Kannon, or Yokoku-ji Temple, in Nagaokakyo City, is a place of serene beauty and spiritual significance. Known as the “Western Kiyomizu,” it offers a peaceful retreat with its lush gardens and historical artifacts. The temple’s hanachozu (flower basins), each with a distinct name, are a sight to behold and offer a tranquil experience for visitors.

The Flower Water Charm (Hanachozu Omamori) is a unique and visually stunning offering. This charm, made with ‘Tsumami Zaiku,’ a traditional Kyoto craft used in the hair ornaments of maiko (apprentice geisha), is inspired by the ancient custom of floating flowers in water for purification and aims to bring peace of mind and blessings. The charm is available in a variety of colors and is the perfect way to bring back a piece of the temple with you.

Visit Yanagidani Kannon to receive the Flower Water Charm and immerse yourself in the temple’s serene beauty and spiritual blessings.

Price:
2800 yen per charm

Access:
From Hankyu Nishiyama Tennozan Station, take Hankyu Bus to “Okukaiin-ji” bus top, then walk approximately 40 minutes or take a taxi for 10 minutes.

From Hankyu Nagaoka Tenjin Station, take Hankyu Bus to “Okukain-ji” bus stop, then walk approximately 40 minutes or take a taxi for 10 minutes.

Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from JR Nagaokakyo Station.

In Yawata City, Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine is one of Japan’s three major Hachiman shrines, dedicated to the god of war and protection. The shrine’s historical significance and stunning architecture make it a must-visit.

The Dove Omikuji (Hato-omikuji) at Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine are unique fortunes encased in ceramic dove figures. There are two types, with one dove facing left and one dove facing right. Their smooth ceramic texture and light pink color is quite lovely. The fortunes in their hollow bodies offer guidance and blessings, enriching visitors’ spiritual experience.

Draw a Dove Omikuji at Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine and let the gentle wisdom of these charming figures guide your journey.

Price:
500 yen per fortune

Access:
From Iwashimizu Hachimangu Station on the Keihan Line, take the cable car to the shrine from Hachimangu-guchi Station to Hachimangu Sanjo Station and walk for 5 minutes.

Kyoto’s temples and shrines offer a myriad of omikuji and omamori, each with its own unique charm and significance. Whether seeking guidance, protection, or blessings, these spiritual tokens provide a profound connection to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. They also serve as a wonderful reminder of your journey to reflect on in the years to come. Make sure to include these mystical experiences in your Kyoto itinerary and embrace the spiritual essence of this diverse prefecture.

＊Prices listed in this article are accurate at the time of posting