Don’t let the ancient allure of Kyoto, the millennium-old capital of Japan, fool you – it hides a dark and eerie secret. Many areas in the city are known as “demonic realms” harboring resentful spirits, with two of Japan’s top three vengeful spirits residing right here. Popular spots like the Kamo River once witnessed gruesome executions, and the Kifune Shrine is steeped in voodoo doll legends… just thinking about it gives you chills! Let’s explore the popular, yet haunted, locations in Kyoto – a journey that seamlessly melds the fascinating and the fearful.
1.Kifune Shrine: The Legendary Curse of the Ushimitsu Kozo Ritual
Legend has it that a woman, scorned and betrayed, unleashed a powerful curse here. The eerie Ushimitsu Kozo ritual involves nailing a straw doll, representing the object of resentment, onto an ancient cedar tree at the shrine between 1 and 3 AM, allegedly bringing grave misfortune upon the cursed individual. This ritual has transformed over time from a prayer for blessings to a potent method of cursing enemies.
2.Kitano Tenmangu Shrine: Home to Sugawara no Michizane, One of Japan’s Great Vengeful Spirits
Affectionately known as “Tenjin-san” by the locals, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine serves as the main shrine for Tenmangu shrines nationwide. Here, the “Deity of Learning,” Sugawara no Michizane, is worshipped. Following a series of unfortunate events and false accusations, he was exiled and later died in despair. His resentful spirit is believed to have caused a series of calamities in Kyoto, leading to his posthumous restoration and veneration as a deity.
3.Shrine of Seimei: The ‘Ichijō Modoribashi’ Bridge – a Gateway to the Afterlife
Nestled within the precincts of the Seimei Shrine, you’ll find the “Ichijō Modoribashi” bridge, where the spirit of Seimei awaits. This newly constructed bridge serves as a connection between this life and the afterworld, where a monk named Jyuzo encountered his deceased father in an extraordinary reunion that defies the boundaries of life and death. Visitors believe that this bridge holds the power to connect the realms of the living and the dead.
4.Shiramine Jingu: The Haunted Abode of the “Demon King” Emperor Sutoku
Famous as a football shrine, Shiramine Jingu also harbors a dark history. It is home to Emperor Sutoku, one of Japan’s most vengeful spirits who vowed to become a “Demon King.” His life marked by strife and rebellion, he met a tragic end in exile. In death, he transformed into a malevolent spirit, causing havoc and plunging Japan into a period of chaos and calamity.
5.Kamigoryo Shrine: The Abode of the Resentful Spirit of Prince Sawara
Located to the north of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, this shrine is dedicated to Prince Sawara, a figure deeply intertwined with the city’s ancient history. Following a series of tragic events and false accusations, he died in exile. Later, as misfortunes befell the imperial family, the Prince was posthumously honored and his spirit appeased to mitigate the curses believed to be emanating from his lingering resentment.
6.Underneath Sanjo Bridge: A Gruesome Historical Execution Site
While the Kamo River is now a popular relaxation and dating spot, it hides a bloody past. Particularly, the area underneath the Sanjo Bridge once served as an execution and dumping ground. A turbulent chapter in history saw the tragic downfall of Toyotomi Hidetsugu and the merciless massacre of his family and retainers here, their final resting place rediscovered and honored years later.
7. Rokudo Chinno-ji: The Secret Gateway to the Underworld
In Kyoto’s heart lies Rokudo Chinno-ji, a mystical haven merging the living and dead realms, affectionately called “Rokudo Kuwa” by locals. This shrine venerates the Yama King, overseer of hell and life-death cycles, and Heian official, Ono no Takamura.
At its entrance is a spiritual crossroads, the “Crossroads of the Six Realms” (六道の辻), a boundary between earth and the afterlife. Here stands a well, “Meido-kayoi no Ido”, a gateway to the underworld.
Legend narrates Takamura’s dual role as a court official and Yama King’s night aide, travelling between realms through the well. He once saved “The Tale of Genji” author, Murasaki Shikibu, from Yama’s anger.
Discover this Kyoto gem, where legend and reality intertwine, promising an unforgettable experience at Rokudo Chinno-ji temple.
Embark on this mystical journey to explore the dark underbelly of Kyoto, where legends of vengeance and the supernatural await you. Experience the thrilling blend of history and horror, as you uncover the city’s haunted heritage – an adventure that promises to rank first in your unforgettable experiences in Japan.
Klook.com
