One of the “UNESCO Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto". Located at the junction of the Kamo and Takano rivers, Shimogamo shrine is surrounded by an ancient forest, with trees as old as 600 years.
A must-visit in Kyoto. Not the big draw of the golden or silver temples so a little smaller on the crowds. A bit of a hike (>1hr) from the main JR line at Kyoto station.
Enjoyed the local festival here called "Mitarashifestival" where the locals walk through ice-cold river stream, praying for health during summer... Magical atmosphere! :-)