A Shrine That Cuts Bad Ties and Connects Good Ones
Nestled quietly in the heart of Kyoto’s Gion district, Yasui Konpiragu Shrine is widely known as the place that “cuts away all bad ties and connects you to good ones.”
Unlike typical shrines that focus on fortune or protection, this sacred spot is dedicated to spiritual renewal — helping people purify unwanted bonds and habits, let go of the past, and invite new, positive connections into their lives.
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What Is Yasui Konpiragu Shrine?
Located in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Yasui Konpiragu enshrines Emperor Sutoku, Minamoto no Yorimasa, and Ōmononushi no Kami, the deity of harmony and transformation.
Affectionately called “Yasui no Konpira-san,” it has long been worshipped as a powerful shrine for both breaking off bad relationships and forming good ones.
Today, people from all over Japan — and the world — visit to pray not only for love, but also for a better life, career, or peace of mind.
History and Enshrined Deities
The origin of Yasui Konpiragu dates back to the Asuka and Heian periods.
It was first established during the reign of Emperor Tenchi (the 38th emperor) by Fujiwara no Kamatari, and later became deeply cherished by Emperor Sutoku (the 75th emperor).
Over time, the shrine came to be revered as a place that guides people toward reconciliation, rebirth, and new beginnings.
At the heart of its faith lies a simple yet timeless belief:
“Only by letting go of what no longer serves you can new happiness find its way to you.”
The Enkiri–Enmusubi Stone: The Sacred Symbol of Renewal
The most iconic feature of Yasui Konpiragu is the Enkiri–Enmusubi Ishi, or “Stone of Cutting and Connecting.”
This massive stone, about 1.5 meters high and 3 meters wide, resembles a giant wooden ema (votive plaque).
At its center lies a round hole, said to channel divine power.
By crawling through this hole, visitors symbolically sever their bad ties and invite good ones — a powerful act of purification and rebirth.
The sight of people humbly passing through the stone is both spiritual and deeply moving.
How to Perform the Ritual
- First, pay your respects at the main hall.
- Write your wish on a paper talisman (ofuda).
- Crawl through the hole from front to back to cut off bad ties.
- Then crawl back through from back to front to invite good ones.
- Finally, attach your ofuda onto the stone.
The main hall and the sacred stone are accessible 24 hours a day.
Spiritual Blessings and Meanings
The blessings of Yasui Konpiragu go far beyond love. People come here seeking emotional and personal transformation, such as:
- Cutting off toxic relationships, habits, or addictions
- Starting a new chapter in life
- Finding true love or meaningful partnerships
- Healing from past emotional pain
Many consider the shrine a place of emotional detox — a sacred space where you can release burdens and restore your inner balance.
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Highlights Around the Shrine Grounds
In addition to the sacred stone, the shrine grounds feature several other points of interest:
- The Main Hall (Honden) dedicated to Emperor Sutoku
- Hundreds of ema (wooden wish plaques) written by visitors
- Omamori charms for love, health, and personal renewal
Just a few steps from the bustling streets of Gion, the shrine offers a surprisingly peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection.
How to Worship at Yasui Konpiragu
- Bow once at the torii gate before entering.
- Purify your hands and mouth at the temizuya (water basin).
- Offer a prayer at the main hall and write your wish.
- Perform the Enkiri–Enmusubi ritual at the sacred stone.
- Conclude with a moment of gratitude and a respectful bow.
Access Information
- Nearest Stations:
- Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Line)
- Higashiyama Station (Subway Tozai Line)
- By Bus from Kyoto Station:
- Take Kyoto City Bus #206 or #207 from Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
- Get off at Higashiyama-Yasui bus stop
- The shrine is a 2-minute walk from the stop
- From Kiyomizudera Temple: About a 10-minute walk downhill toward Gion
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Admission: Free
- Official Website:
