Agata Shrine

Getting there and visiting

The shrine stands close to Byodo-in temple, roughly 100 meters west of the temple's south gate, according to the Uji tourism map. A Keihan Railway guide says it is about 10 minutes on foot south of Uji Station, and lists the grounds as free to enter and open at any time. The shrine's reception office is listed as open from 9:30 to 16:30.

The enshrined deity is Konohanasakuyahime. Keihan's guide says worshippers have long come to pray for good matches, children, safe childbirth and child-rearing.

The Agata Festival

The shrine's main annual festival, the Agata Festival, is held on June 5. Keihan says a vigorous ceremony called Bontenwatari, takes place from late that night until just before dawn. It is nicknamed the festival in the dark, and the Uji tourism map says it draws a large crowd and is one of the town's signature festivals.

The autumn 2026 stamp rally

Keihan Railway runs a digital stamp rally from Sept. 1 to Dec. 20, 2026, split into an early course (Sept. 1 to Oct. 31) and a late course (Nov. 1 to Dec. 20). Agata Shrine is one of the late-course points, alongside the Uji River bank near the water pipe bridge and Kohata Shrine. Completing each course earns a character photo frame, and a prize draw is offered to those who collect every stamp.

A printed map of Uji spots that have appeared in the anime is handed out from Sept. 1 at major Keihan stations and tourist information centers while supplies last. The organizers ask visitors to keep voices and noise down, especially at night, out of consideration for nearby residents.