Kinomiya Shrine (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Kinomiya Shrine?
What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Children can race around the tree, count red torii, and catch beans at Setsubun, but uneven steps and limited interactive displays mean parents must guide them and visits stay short.
Positives:
- Free admission: No entry fee keeps costs low for families.
- Easy access: A flat path from Kinomiya Station is stroller-friendly.
- Kid-friendly games: Simple activities like laps and counting torii entertain children.
Challenges:
- Uneven terrain: Some paths have stones and steps; wear sturdy shoes.
- Limited shade: Only a few benches are available under the big tree; bring hats.
- Small café seating: Tables fill up quickly; prepare to wait or take sweets to go.
What is Kinomiya Shrine?
- A Shinto shrine dedicated to Atami’s guardian deity and serving the Izu and Kinomiya regions
- Home to a 2,000-year-old camphor tree revered as a sacred power spot known as the "Tree of Bonds"
- Precincts featuring vermilion torii gates, stone lanterns, and classical wooden shrine architecture harmonized with the surrounding forest
What is so special about Kinomiya Shrine for with kids?
- Free entry and easy 5-minute walk from Kinomiya Station
- Circle a 2,000-year-old camphor tree as a fun game
- Count red torii gates for a simple kids’ challenge
- Buy small omamori charms and local café treats
- Early visits help avoid crowds and secure seating
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Kids can enjoy tree laps, torii counting, and snacks without getting tired.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Kinomiya Shrine
Circle the Great Camphor Tree:
Walk one lap around the 2,000-year-old camphor tree.
Tip: Hold hands and count laps as a game: one lap equals one happy year.
Count the Red Torii Gates:
Explore the row of small red torii gates near the shrine.
Tip: Challenge kids to spot and count every gate on the path.
Buy Kid-Friendly Omamori:
Choose from small charms sold at the shop.
Tip: Let each child pick a design (about 500 JPY) to remember the visit.
Taste Local Sweets at the Café:
Try barley-flour ice cream or sweet red-bean soup.
Tip: Order a mix of flavors (~300–500 JPY each) to share and compare.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Kinomiya Shrine
- Arrive at opening: Get there at 9:00 AM to avoid crowds and secure café seats.
- Pack extra snacks: Cafés open at 9:00; bring water and snacks for early arrivals.
- Use the JR Ito Line: Take the train to Kinomiya Station for a 5-minute walk to the shrine.
Reviews of Kinomiya Shrine
Kay S E
What a wonderful, beautiful, traditional shrine. The treat options were great (ice cream and sweet potato chips were absolutely stood delicious), and the staff were all extremely pleasant women. Truly a life-affirming experience 💜
Dave Brothers
Beautiful shrine and kind staff. We started our goshuinmeguri here because we loved the trees and the wooden goshuincho. Even on a very hot day, the shade and trees are cooling. As with other popular shrines, please go early in the day to avoid crowds.
Erin Tom
Came on a Wednesday at 9am and while there were some people there it definitely wasn't crowded like we saw around 1 or 2 pm. It is such a lovely shrine with so many little pathways - there's a path of small tori gates (only like 8), then some stairs to view the river / stream. The shrine is said to bring good fortune and luck. It's well known for its 2000 year old camphor tree, if you walk around ...
Matias Skaglio
A temple surrounded by nature. The main attraction are the 2 centuries-old trees. There are also two cafes with outdoor tables where you can enjoy nature while drinking a coffee.
Michael Tsai
A beautiful shrine with a very old and picturesque camphor tree - walking around it is said to extend your life by one year. There was also a nice cafe on the grounds to get a nice snack or beverage. We parked at a nearby pay lot. You can get parking validated if you buy items from the shrine shop.
When is the best time to visit Kinomiya Shrine (Hakone, Japan)?
Visit in early February for the Risshun no Mae bean-throwing festival, where kids can catch roasted soy-beans.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Omamori charms (4) | JPY 2,000 |
| Café snacks (4) | JPY 1,600 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,600 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Kinomiya Shrine
Address: 43-1 Nishiyamachō, Atami, Shizuoka 413-0034, Japan
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About Kinomiya Shrine
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 557-82-224110 BEST nearby Activities
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