Ayado Kuninaka Shrine

Ayato Kunanaka Shrine in southern Kyoto was formed by the merger of two originally separate shrines, Ayato Shrine and Kunaka Shrine. Notably, the Gion Matsuri festival — one of Kyoto's most celebrated events — is a shared observance of this shrine and Yasaka Shrine. The deity here is believed to ward off evil with formidable power, protecting Kyoto through the ages. Since the merging of the two shrines, the combined divine authority has watched over the community with renewed strength.