Japanese Shrine Where People Go to Break Up with Partners: Strange but True Beliefs in the Land of the Rising Sun
Gother
30 May 2025
Many of us have experienced times when we wanted to cut someone out of our lives. Whether it's an unfaithful partner, a toxic friend, or even a job that brings no joy. Today, we're introducing you to "Yasui Konpiragu Shrine" in Kyoto, famous for relationship-severing powers and nicknamed 'The Breakup Shrine'—one of Japan's most popular spiritual destinations!
The Story of Yasui Konpiragu Shrine: A Place for Ending and New Beginnings
Yasui Konpiragu Shrine dates back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE) and is located in Kyoto's Higashiyama district. Originally built to honor Konpira, the god of the seas, what makes this shrine fascinating is its sacred stone called "Enkiri Ishi" (Severance Stone). This stone is believed to have the power to cut negative influences from your life and attract positive energy instead.
Today, this shrine has gained worldwide recognition as a sacred place for "severing relationships" (Enkiri) and "forming new connections" (Enmusubi), attracting countless visitors. Especially women who seek these special blessings.
What Wishes Can You Make at Yasui Konpiragu Shrine?
At this shrine, you can make various wishes, but most are related to:
- ● Ending bad relationships: Breaking up with an unfaithful partner, cutting ties with toxic friends, or any relationship that makes you unhappy
- ● Eliminating illness and addiction: Recovering from disease or overcoming various addictions
- ● Changing your work life: Quitting a job you dislike or starting a new career
- ● Attracting good things: After cutting out negative influences, wishing for a better partner, a suitable job, or new opportunities
Detailed Guide to Making Wishes at Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
If you're planning to visit this shrine, here are the strict steps to follow
1. Prepare Yourself
When arriving at the shrine, remember to wash your hands and rinse your mouth at the "Temizuya" (purification fountain) near the entrance. This is a traditional Japanese ritual to purify yourself.2. Pay Respects at the Main Shrine First
Before heading to the stone, visit the main shrine. Toss a coin into the offering box, bow twice, clap twice, make your wish, then bow to the stone once more.3. Purchase a Katashiro Paper
Next, buy a Katashiro paper (special prayer paper) for writing your wishes, which costs around 800-1,000 yen (about $5-7 USD).4. Write Your Wish on the Paper
Write your name, address, what you want to cut from your life, and what you'd like to welcome instead. Be clear and sincere to help your wishes come true faster!5. The Enkiri Ishi Stone Ritual
This is the main attraction of visiting this shrine, with steps as follows:- ● Pass through the stone from front to back: To cut ties with unwanted elements
- ● Pass through the stone from back to front: To connect with positive things you wish to attract
- ● Attach your paper to the stone: After passing through, place your prayer paper on the stone
Best Times to Make Wishes
The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but certain times are believed to enhance the power of your wishes
- ● 1st and 15th days of the lunar month: According to the lunar calendar, these days are believed to have special powers, making them auspicious for wish-making
- ● During Obon Festival: In August, when ancestral spirits are believed to visit their families in the human world
- ● New Year: The first three days of the New Year are particularly significant, as Japanese people traditionally visit shrines for good beginnings
Easily Ways to Get to Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
Located in the Higashiyama district, Kyoto, the shrine is easily accessible:
By Bus
From Kyoto Station, take bus #206 or #100 to the "Gion-Shijo" stop, then walk about 10 minutes to reach your destination.By Train
Take the Keihan Line to Gion-Shijo Station or the Tozai Subway Line to Higashiyama Station, then walk 10-15 minutes.By Taxi
Taxis from central Kyoto take about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.Traveler Tips: Prepare for Your Wish-Making Visit!
For your trip to the shrine, we recommend:
- ● Dress appropriately: No formal attire needed, but respectful clothing is appreciated
- ● Bring cash: Most shops and shrine areas don't accept credit cards
- ● Pack an umbrella: Especially if visiting during June-July, Japan's rainy season
- ● Water: Bring water and small snacks, particularly during summer when it gets humid
- ● Easy-to-remove footwear: As you might need to remove shoes in certain areas
Finally... What Else Can You Do Nearby?
After making wishes at Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, the Higashiyama district offers many other attractions:
- ● Kiyomizu-dera Temple: The famous "Pure Water Temple" nearby
- ● Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Streets: Classic old streets filled with souvenir shops and traditional snacks
- ● Gion District: The famous geisha district with many beautiful restaurants and cafés
While Yasui Konpiragu Shrine may not be among Kyoto's top tourist attractions, its unique beliefs and traditions make it a special place for those seeking life changes.
Whether you believe in the power of the sacred stone or not, visiting offers a chance to experience authentic Japanese culture and might just be the beginning of major life changes!
Planning to visit this "Breakup Shrine"? Book your flights with Gother now! Besides discounts with famous airlines, there's Klub that keeps you updated on other activities around Kyoto to welcome new positive experiences into your life.
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