Located just south of the renowned Arashiyama district, it’s said Matsuo Taisha was founded in 701, making it one of the oldest in the area. Bordering up against a mountain, Matsuo Taisha’s distinctive main hall has been dated to 1397, and is one of the oldest extant buildings in the city proper that wasn’t lost to fire. The shrine’s spring is famous for its restorative properties and many sake and miso producers patron the shrine, their industries relying on pure water to survive.
Ritual Sake
Since Matsuo Taisha is famous for its relation to sake production, brewers from all over Kyoto and even the farthest reaches of the country come to pray at this shrine and receive some of its sacred waters. In return, these brewers donate casks of their product to be used in the shrine’s rituals. While such donations are usual, Matsuno’o Taisha boasts a considerable collection of interesting casks that can be viewed to the left of the haiden stage. On my new year’s visit at Matsuo Taisha shrine, I could find so many sake that Bacchus Global import to Thailand! For those more interested in sampling the wares, check out this shrine for your new year’s visit and try their kinpaku sake filled with gold leaf, or their blessed miki sake.
Wishing a good luck for new year! ( Ms. M)