Gokonomi-ya Shrine

Gokonomi-ya Shrine

Also called Gokogu Shrine, this shrine is in the Fushimi area. If you venture out to see Fushimi Momoyama Castle or the sake breweries, you may want to make a quick stop here. It was named after the water (“Shrine of Aromatic Water”) because the water is said to be pure and have healing powers. Supposedly, it is some of the best water in Japan. 

The shrine is quite colorful and features many painted sculptures. Many parts of the shrine were built in a Chinese-style, which explains the vibrant colors. There is a small garden and a Noh stage, where they still have Noh performances annually in September.