Kikka Shinji Chrysanthemum Rite at Kifune Shrine

Kifune Shrine stands in the valley of Kibune at the headwaters of the Kamo River, and has long been venerated as the shrine of the deity who governs water. The Kikka Shinji closes the shrine's yearly cycle of five seasonal rites, following those for Jinjitsu, Joshi, Tango and Tanabata, and is performed each year on 9 September from 11:00. Choyo falls on the day when nine, the greatest of the yang numbers, is doubled; it is also called the Chrysanthemum Festival, the flower having long been held to drive off misfortune and lengthen life. Chrysanthemums are offered before the deity in prayer for longevity and family prosperity, and afterwards chrysanthemum sake is served to those present. Seating inside the hall is offered to the first thirty arrivals. Kibune is cooler than central Kyoto, and the approach along the Kibune River stays pleasant even in early September. The shrine is reached by the Eizan Railway and a connecting bus; its Hongu, Yui-no-yashiro and Okunomiya stand in sequence along the river, about an hour's walk in all. Admission is free.