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Miyake Hachimangu Shrine（三宅八幡宮）

Miyake Hachiman-gu Shrine originated from a shrine founded by Ono no Imoko, an envoy to the Zui Dynasty.
As the dove is considered the messenger of the deity Hachiman, statues of guardian doves stand on the shrine grounds, and dove motifs can be found throughout the site.
The shrine is revered as a place to pray for the healing of various childhood illnesses.
The teahouse along the approach to the shrine is highly recommended; it sells “hato-mochi” (dove-shaped rice cakes) and delicious, freshly harvested vegetables.

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Konpukuji Temple（金福寺）

This is a temple belonging to the Nanzen-ji school of the Rinzai sect. It is said that the renowned haiku poet Matsuo Basho stayed here, and the grounds feature the “Basho-an” (Basho’s Hermitage), which was restored by Yosa Buson—a poet who deeply admired Basho—and his school of followers.
When I visited on July 17th, the balloonflowers were in beautiful bloom.

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Gion Matsuri Festival （祇園祭り）

Today, July 17th, is the day of the Gion Festival’s Yamaboko float procession, and large crowds of spectators are expected; however, in the early morning, you can view each float quietly and at a leisurely pace.
The arrival of the Gion Festival marks the peak of summer in Kyoto.

 

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Jyojyu-ji Temple （浄住寺）

Joju-ji Temple is located in Kyoto City’s Nishikyo Ward, an area home to a cluster of temples—including Jizo-in (famous as the “Bamboo Temple”), Koke-dera (Moss Temple), and Suzumushi-dera.
Within the temple grounds, visitors can view *kikkōchiku* (tortoiseshell bamboo), a rare variety of bamboo unique to Kyoto.
It is a place where you can enjoy a quiet, peaceful moment.

 

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Hirano Jingya shrine（平野神社）

Located in Kyoto’s Kita Ward, Hirano Shrine is said to have been relocated from Heijo-kyo to Heian-kyo when the capital was moved there in 794; it is renowned for its cherry blossoms, particularly the night-time cherry blossoms.
The shrine’s main hall features a unique architectural style known as “Hirano-zukuri” and was built during the Kan’ei era of the Edo period.

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