Isonokami Shrine - Kyoto Japan
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Isonokami Shrine

4.5
·4k reviews·Tenri, Japan

Discover one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, famous for its sacred, free-roaming chickens and its connection to the ancient Yamanobe no Michi trail.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring or Fall mornings

Cherry blossoms or gingko trees

CrowdLow
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Isonokami Shrine - Kyoto Japan

Isonokami Shrine

Best Time

Spring or Fall mornings

Cherry blossoms or gingko trees

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, famous for its sacred, free-roaming chickens and its connection to the ancient Yamanobe no Michi trail.

4.5
(4k reviews)

"A delightful and unique shrine experience, especially with the sacred chickens roaming freely!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🐔 Respect the Sacred Birds

Roosters and chickens roam freely; please do not disturb or feed them. They are considered sacred messengers.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Many visitors combine their shrine visit with the Yamanobe no Michi trail. Good walking shoes are a must!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sacred Chickens and Roosters

Sacred Chickens and Roosters

Witness the unique sight of sacred chickens and roosters freely roaming the shrine grounds. A truly special and ancient tradition.

Yamanobe no Michi Trailhead

Yamanobe no Michi Trailhead

Start or end your journey on Japan's oldest road, the Yamanobe no Michi, right here at the shrine.

Ancient Shrine Architecture

Ancient Shrine Architecture

Explore one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, steeped in history and surrounded by serene nature.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Sacred Roosters

Isonokami Shrine is famous for its resident chickens and roosters, considered sacred messengers. Expect to see them roaming freely throughout the grounds. It's a unique aspect of the shrine's ancient charm.

Combine with Yamanobe Trail

Many visitors enjoy Isonokami Shrine as part of a hike along the Yamanobe no Michi, Japan's oldest road. Plan your visit to include this scenic walk for a fuller experience.

Best Times

When
Spring or Fall mornings
Why
Cherry blossoms or gingko trees
Crowd
Low
When
During 7-5-3 holiday
Why
See children in traditional dress
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Just got back from vacation! Here's a peek at what I've been up to! I can't wait to show you all the cool ones I found! #Kamado #demonslayer #art
@demon_slayer_obsessed
40K likes • 146.3K views

🐔 Respect the Sacred Birds

Roosters and chickens roam freely; please do not disturb or feed them. They are considered sacred messengers.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Many visitors combine their shrine visit with the Yamanobe no Michi trail. Good walking shoes are a must!

🌸 Seasonal Beauty

Visit in spring for cherry blossoms or fall for vibrant gingko trees lining nearby streets.

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the unique charm of the free-roaming chickens and the ancient shrine architecture.

Tips

from all over the internet

🐔 Respect the Sacred Birds

Roosters and chickens roam freely; please do not disturb or feed them. They are considered sacred messengers.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Many visitors combine their shrine visit with the Yamanobe no Michi trail. Good walking shoes are a must!

🌸 Seasonal Beauty

Visit in spring for cherry blossoms or fall for vibrant gingko trees lining nearby streets.

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture the unique charm of the free-roaming chickens and the ancient shrine architecture.

What Travellers Say

4.5
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Isonokami Shrine for its unique charm, particularly the sacred chickens roaming freely, and its historical significance as one of Japan's oldest shrines. Many appreciate its tranquil atmosphere and its role as a starting point for the Yamanobe no Michi trail. Some note that it's a smaller, less crowded attraction, offering a peaceful escape.

"Small beautiful shrine on outskirts of Nara. Visited during the 7-5-3 holiday and saw a lot of children after the ceremony in traditional dresses - very cute sighting.
Nearby there's a pond with Koi fish and"

Denys Tsybulskyi

"Great place to visit while acrossing the Yamanobe no michi. Said the sacred chickens here are the original residents before human. Correct me if I wrong."

Anemone

"Nice temple with a great atmosphere, there are many roosters and chickens roaming freely in the temple precints. The Yamanobe trail pass from this temple."

yodo saan

What People Like

Sacred chickens roaming
Ancient shrine history
Tranquil atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can be small for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Isonokami Shrine is accessible by bus from Nara. Take a bus towards Tenri and get off at the Isonokami Jingu-mae stop. The shrine is a short walk from there. Reddit

Yes, Isonokami Shrine is a significant point along the Yamanobe no Michi, Japan's oldest road. It's a popular starting or ending point for hikers. Reddit

There is parking available at Isonokami Shrine, making it accessible for those traveling by car. Reddit

Many recommend starting at Isonokami Shrine and walking south along the trail. The path is well-marked and offers beautiful scenery. Reddit

No, Isonokami Shrine is located in Nara Prefecture, Japan, not Fukuoka. The TikTok video may have been mistaken or referring to a different location. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Isonokami Shrine is free to enter. You can explore the grounds and admire the sacred chickens without any admission cost. Reddit

The shrine grounds are generally open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check specific hours closer to your visit, but it's typically accessible during daylight hours. Reddit

Yes, you can visit Isonokami Shrine on holidays. During special occasions like the 7-5-3 festival, you might see many children in traditional attire. Reddit

No, advance booking is not required as there is no entrance fee for Isonokami Shrine. You can visit spontaneously. Reddit

While not always advertised widely online, the shrine may host local festivals or ceremonies. The 7-5-3 holiday is a notable time for family visits. Reddit

🎫 ⛩️ Onsite Experience

The chickens and roosters at Isonokami Shrine are considered sacred messengers. They roam freely and are a unique, ancient feature of the shrine. Reddit+1

Yes, the shrine is known for having coops with special breeds, including a long-tailed rooster variety. Reddit

Visitors describe the atmosphere as nice and great, with a serene, wooded area surrounding the shrine. It's a peaceful escape. Reddit

Yes, there is a pond near the shrine that is home to Koi fish, adding to the tranquil environment. Reddit

It is one of Japan's oldest Shinto shrines, holding significant historical and cultural importance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique sight of the sacred chickens roaming freely, the ancient shrine architecture, and the natural beauty of the surrounding woods. Reddit

Yes, you can photograph the special breeds of chickens, including the long-tailed roosters, but always be respectful and avoid disturbing them. Reddit

In spring, the streets near Isonokami Shrine are lined with cherry trees, offering beautiful floral backdrops for your photos. Reddit

During the fall, nearby streets are adorned with gingko trees, providing stunning golden scenery perfect for photography. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted at religious sites in Japan to maintain peace and respect. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Isonokami Shrine offers a unique and engaging experience for families. The sacred chickens and roosters roaming freely are a huge hit with children, providing endless fascination and photo opportunities. Reddit+1 It's a gentle introduction to Japanese culture and mythology, as kids can learn about the birds' special status. The shrine is also a starting point for the Yamanobe no Michi trail, which can be a fun, short walk for active families, offering a chance to explore nature. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone and keep a close eye on little ones around the free-roaming birds.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

For those who love to walk and immerse themselves in nature, Isonokami Shrine is an ideal destination. It's a key point on the Yamanobe no Michi, Japan's oldest road, offering a chance to trek through historical landscapes. Reddit The shrine itself is set in a serene, wooded area, providing a peaceful atmosphere even before you begin your hike. The changing seasons bring their own beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and gingko trees in fall adding to the scenic appeal. Reddit Pack appropriate gear and enjoy the blend of history and natural beauty.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sacred Chickens of Isonokami

Isonokami Shrine is renowned for its resident population of chickens and roosters, which are considered sacred messengers. These birds are not confined to coops but roam freely throughout the shrine grounds, adding a unique and ancient charm to the visitor experience. Visitors often express delight at seeing them wander amongst the torii gates and prayer halls. Reddit+1 The shrine is even known to house special breeds, including a long-tailed rooster, a testament to their historical significance. It's a living tradition that connects visitors to the shrine's deep spiritual roots.

When visiting, remember that these are not just ordinary birds; they are revered. Travelers are advised to observe them respectfully, refraining from feeding or disturbing them. This practice of keeping sacred fowl is believed to be one of the oldest traditions at the shrine, predating human settlement in some accounts. Reddit The presence of these animals contributes significantly to the tranquil and almost mystical atmosphere of Isonokami Shrine, making it a memorable stop for many.

Hiking the Yamanobe no Michi

For those who enjoy a bit of exploration, Isonokami Shrine serves as a perfect gateway to the Yamanobe no Michi, Japan's oldest road. This ancient pathway offers a glimpse into historical Japan, winding through picturesque countryside, small villages, and past other historical sites. Many visitors choose to start their hike from Isonokami Shrine, appreciating its role as a historical marker. Reddit

The trail itself is generally well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels, though some sections might be more challenging. It's an excellent opportunity to experience rural Japan at a slower pace, away from the bustling city centers. The surrounding scenery changes with the seasons, offering cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn, making it a beautiful walk year-round. Reddit Combining a visit to the shrine with a hike on the Yamanobe no Michi provides a comprehensive cultural and natural experience.

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