Atago Shrine

Shrine

Part of Arashiyama

Prefecture

Kyoto

Type

Shrine

N/A

0 reviews

Free

Entry Fee

Free Entry

About This Destination

Perched atop 924-meter Mt. Atago, this ancient shrine dedicated to the fire deity has protected Kyoto from fire for over 1,300 years. A rewarding 2-hour hike from Kiyotaki.

Atago Shrine sits atop 924-meter Mt. Atago, the highest peak in the mountains northwest of Kyoto. Established in 701 AD, the shrine is dedicated to Homusubi-no-mikoto (also known as Kagutsuchi), the deity of fire, and has served as the head of some 900 Atago shrines across Japan that protect against fire. The main hiking trail begins at Kiyotaki, accessible by bus from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, and climbs approximately 4 kilometers through ancient cedar forests along a well-maintained stone path. The ascent takes about 2 hours and the descent about 1.5 hours. Along the way, hikers pass rest stations and small shrines with views opening up over the Kyoto basin. The annual Sennichi Mairi (Thousand-Day Pilgrimage) on the night of July 31st is the most popular event, when thousands of pilgrims climb through the night with lanterns, believing that a single visit on this night equals 1,000 visits. The summit offers panoramic views and a serene atmosphere far removed from the bustling city below.

Location

Prefecture: Kyoto

Address: Kyoto, Japan

Nearest Station: JR Saga-Arashiyama Station (then bus to Kiyotaki)

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Visitor Information

Credit Cards: Unknown

Food Options: No food available at the shrine. Small rest stations along the hiking trail sell drinks. Stock up on snacks and water before starting at Kiyotaki. Restaurants are available back in the Arashiyama area.

Official Website

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Atago Shrine trailhead at Kiyotaki?

From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, take Kyoto Bus #72, #92, or #94 to 'Kiyotaki' bus stop (the terminus, about 20 minutes, 230 yen flat fare). Service is approximately hourly. The trailhead is right at the bus stop. Driving is possible but parking at Kiyotaki is very limited; weekend lots fill by 8 AM. Public transport is strongly recommended.

How long is the hike up Atago Shrine?

From Kiyotaki to the summit is about 4 km (924 m elevation gain) along a well-maintained stone-stepped path through cedar forest. Allow 2 hours up and 1.5 hours down at a steady pace. Wear hiking shoes, bring at least 1 liter of water, and download a map (mobile signal is patchy). Most rest stations along the trail close by 3 PM, so start early. The shrine is open 9 AM to 4 PM.

When is the best time to climb Mt. Atago?

Spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November) for mild temperatures and dry trails. The Sennichi Mairi all-night pilgrimage on July 31st (climbing through the night with lanterns) is a unique cultural experience but extremely crowded. Avoid summer afternoons (heat and afternoon thunderstorms common in mountains) and winter (snow and ice make the upper sections dangerous without proper gear). Avoid hiking after typhoons due to fallen trees.

What's special about the Sennichi Mairi pilgrimage?

On the night of July 31st (continuing into August 1st), thousands of pilgrims climb Mt. Atago through the dark, lighting the path with paper lanterns. According to tradition, a single visit on this night equals 1,000 daily visits — a 'thousand-day pilgrimage' compressed into one. Climbers exchange the greeting 'Onobori-yasu' (going up) and 'Okudari-yasu' (coming down) along the trail. At the summit, a ceremony with sacred fire begins around midnight. Plan to start the climb around 8–9 PM and bring a flashlight.