Shimogamo Shrine Mitarashi Matsuri 2024

From July 19 (Friday) to July 28 (Sunday), 2024, the “Mitarashi Matsuri 2024” will be held at Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.

This summer festival takes place at Shimogamo Shrine, which is registered as a World Heritage site under “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”

The festival is a traditional summer event celebrated annually for ten days around the Doyo no Ushinohi (the day of the ox in midsummer).

What is the Mitarashi Matsuri?

The Mitarashi Matsuri is a festival held every year for ten days around mid-July at Shimogamo Shrine in Kyoto.

Also known as the “Ashi-tsuke Shinji” (foot-washing ritual), participants pay a 300 yen fee at the reception to receive a candle.

They then walk barefoot into the Mitarashi Pond on the shrine grounds, light their candle,and pray for good health and safety. 

Afterward, they drink the sacred water to cleanse themselves. Many visitors also come to enjoy the festival’s food stalls and street vendors.

For clothing, since you’ll be walking barefoot in the water, it’s recommended to wear sandals, shorts, or pants that are easy to roll up.

Schedule and Time for 2024

From July 19 (Friday) to July 28 (Sunday), 2024

9:00 AM to 8:00 PM

What are the fees?

Candle fee: 300 yen *There is no admission fee for the shrine.

What about the food stalls?

During the festival, food stalls will be set up.

Is it crowded?

Weekends are expected to be crowded. Weekdays might be a better time to visit.

Traffic Regulation Map

I couldn’t find specific information about traffic regulations. However, during the same period, the Gion Matsuri is taking place, which will involve traffic restrictions. If you’re planning to drive, please be cautious.

Where are the restrooms?

There are restrooms available.

Access

  • **Subway (Karasuma Line):** From Kyoto Station to Kitaoji Station. From Kitaoji Station, take City Bus 1 or 205 (about 25 minutes) to Shimogamo Shrine-mae (or Tadasu-no-Mori-mae).
  • **City Bus:** From Kyoto Station, take City Bus 4 or 205 to Shimogamo Shrine-mae (or Tadasu-no-Mori-mae).
  • **JR Transfer to Keihan at Demachiyanagi Station:** Transfer from Kyoto Station: Take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Tofukuji Station. Transfer to the Keihan Line towards Demachiyanagi Station. From Keihan Tofukuji Station, travel to Demachiyanagi Station. Then, walk for 12 minutes to Shimogamo Shrine.
  • **From Hankyu Kawaramachi Station:** Walk 5 minutes from Hankyu Kawaramachi Station to Keihan Gion-Shijo Station. Take the Keihan Line to Demachiyanagi Station, then walk 12 minutes to Shimogamo Shrine.