Pilgrimage to the Six Jizo Statues (六地蔵巡り)

In Kyoto, a traditional event known as the “Rokujizo-meguri” (Pilgrimage to the Six Jizo Statues) takes place on August 22 and 23; participants visit six temples to pray for the safety of their families and good health. This custom, which has continued for 800 years, involves visiting six Jizo statues enshrined along the six old highways that served as the gateways to the capital of Kyoto.

鞍馬口地蔵

 

常盤地蔵

 

桂地蔵

 

鳥羽地蔵

 

伏見六地蔵

 

 

山科地蔵

Heian jingu Shrine 1 (Garden) 平安神宮1(庭園)

Heian-jingu Shrine, built to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of the capital’s relocation to Heian-kyo, is dedicated to Emperor Kanmu—the founder of Kyoto. While the shrine is distinguished by its massive torii gate, its gardens offer beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons. Kyoto boasts many magnificent gardens, but this is one I highly recommend.

Location

Kyoto Imperial Palace 3(Garden) 京都御所3(庭園)

The white-sand garden situated in front of the Shishinden is the “South Garden” (Nantei); the strolling pond garden located east of the Kogosho and the Ogakumonjo is the “Oike-niwa” (Pond Garden); and there is also the “Gonai-tei” (Inner Garden), featuring a winding stream—all of them are magnificent.

Kyoto Imperial Palace 2 (Gates) 京都御所2 (門)

The Kyoto Imperial Palace features numerous gates; in the past, the specific gate one could use was strictly determined by social rank and purpose. There are many famous gates, each with its own distinctive character and charm—such as the Gishu-mon, Gekka-mon, and Kenrei-mon. The Seisho-mon serves as the entrance for public tours.