©Arukikata. Co. , Ltd.  |  ©Bringer Japan Z Inc.

Uji Shrine

Verified [Verified] denotes information that has been published with confirmation of its owing parties.

Uji Shrine

A historic shrine founded in 1710, known for "Mikaeri Usagi," the divine messenger rabbit.

3.95 1

Last update :
Head Editor : Uji Shrine

The Uji Shrine, the guardian deity of Uji, has a history spanning 1710 years since its founding in 313 AD, the year Emperor Nintoku ascended to the throne. The shrine grounds, located at the eastern end of the Asagiri Bridge across the Uji River, are believed to be the site of a former imperial villa of Emperor Nintoku's father, Emperor Oujin, and the palace of Emperor Nintoku’s brother, Ujinowakiiratsukonomikoto (菟道稚郎子命).

The shrine was established to enshrine the spirit of Ujinowakiiratsukonomikoto, who relinquished the throne to his brother and took his own life. He is revered as the founder of culture and education, bringing benefits for academic success, exam pass rates, and safe childbirth. As a grandchild deity of Empress Jingu, the goddess of safe childbirth, the shrine continues to attract devoted faith for its blessings of safe delivery.

Additionally, rabbit figurines found throughout the shrine grounds are inspired by a story from Ujinowakiiratsukonomikoto’s journey from Kawachi Province, during which he lost his way and was guided by a rabbit that frequently looked back to ensure he followed. This rabbit, revered as a divine messenger leading the way to the right path, is affectionately known as "Mikaeri Usagi" (the Looking-Back Rabbit). Its charming design is also featured on ema (votive plaques), omamori (amulets), and goshuincho (seal books) available at the shrine.

Highlights

  • The shrine is known for bestowing blessings for academic achievement, success in exams, and safe childbirth.
  • The main hall, constructed in the Sangensha Nagare-zukuri style with cypress bark roofing, dates back to the early Kamakura period and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
  • The design of the divine messenger "Mikaeri Usagi" (Looking Back Rabbit) is featured on various offerings at the shrine.

Photos

  • A rabbit motif adorns the Temizu-ya (hand purifying pavilion).

    A rabbit motif adorns the Temizu-ya (hand purifying pavilion).

  • The main hall enshrines Ujinowakiiratsukonomikoto.

    The main hall enshrines Ujinowakiiratsukonomikoto.

  • A power spot within the shrine grounds features rabbit figurines.

    A power spot within the shrine grounds features rabbit figurines.

  • The goshuin-cho (shrine and temple seal book) features the adorable design of the "Mikaeri Usagi" (Looking Back Rabbit).

    The goshuin-cho (shrine and temple seal book) features the adorable design of the "Mikaeri Usagi" (Looking Back Rabbit).

  • The michibiki usagi ema (guiding rabbit votive plaque).

    The michibiki usagi ema (guiding rabbit votive plaque).

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
A

Sorry, we don’t.

Q

Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A

No free Wi-Fi available.

Q

Do you have shrine’s red ink stamps?
A

Yes.

Reviews

1
  • 秦晴

    走在林間道路來到寧靜的神社範圍~一整個能量滿滿哦

Details

Name in Japanese
宇治神社
Postal Code
611-0021
Address
1 Uji Yamada, Uji City, Kyoto
Telephone
0774-21-3041
Closed
Open every day
Business Hours
Shrine grounds open for visitation anytime, awarding office are open 9:00am - 4:00pm（varies by the season）
Admission
Free
Access
About 9 minutes walk from Keihan Uji Line Uji Station
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more