Kifune-jinja Shrine is a unique and memorable shrine located in the village of Kibune, in the northern mountains of Kyoto. The shrine is dedicated to the god of water, and its spiritual significance, natural beauty, and cultural importance make it a must-visit destination in Kyoto.

I absolutely adore this shrine, and every time I visit, it feels like I've entered one of Hayao Miyazaki's fairy tales (of course, if it is not too crowded during peak hours).

It is also really famous for its Omikuji that reveals its meaning after you put it on the water.

1. Pay for your Omikuji by inserting the coins (200 JPY) in the dedicated box (if you do not have any coins, you can ask the cashier who sells all the other items to exchange your bills for some coins).

2. Take an Omikuji paper from the tray.

3. Place your Omikuji paper on the water surface nearby.

4. Wait until additional letters are revealed (it is in Japanese).

5. Scan the QR code on your Omikuji for the translation of your fortune reading.

6. Take your Omikuji back with you if it is a "good" one.

7. If it is not a good one, fold your paper in the shape of a long strip and tie it up on a dedicated rack (you will see lots of other papers tied up on it). By tying the omikuji to a designated area, such as a tree or a rack, you are essentially symbolizing the severing of ties with the bad luck and choosing not to carry it with you. It's a way to symbolically release the negative energy and make space for new opportunities and positive experiences in your life.

Overall, it is just a really fun thing to do, no matter which one you get.

Also, be sure to check out its Ema boards and Omamori stand. Every year, I get myself a new omamori from this shrine because they have a pretty unique and beautiful selection.