Nishimura-ke and Umetsuji-ke （西村家 梅辻家 社家町）
Historic priest residences near Kamigamo Shrine in Kyoto
The Nishimura and Umetsuji residences are traditional homes in Kyoto, once inhabited by priests of Kamigamo Shrine. These houses belong to a special category called Shake (社家)—residences of hereditary Shinto priest families.
In the past, it was common for the role of head priest to be passed down within a family. This practice was especially widespread until the early Meiji period. However, in 1872, the government abolished the hereditary system to prevent misuse of power. Even so, many of these families continued to live near the shrines, and their homes formed entire neighborhoods now known as Shake-machi.
The Shake-machi near Kamigamo Shrine is one of the most beautiful in Japan. A clear stream runs alongside the street, crossed by narrow stone bridges that lead to the entrances of each house. Behind earthen walls and tall hedges, quiet gardens hint at centuries of tradition. While over 300 Shake homes once stood here during the Edo period, today fewer than 40 remain.
Among them, Nishimura-ke is the only house open to the public regularly. It has been designated a Place of Scenic Beauty for its cultural and architectural value. While Umetsuji-ke is not generally open, its presence adds to the harmony of the preserved street. Visitors can explore the area and feel the historic connection between shrine, family, and architecture.
This peaceful Kyoto neighborhood offers a glimpse into a lesser-known side of Japanese religious heritage—away from crowds, yet rich with meaning.
Read more in our eBook!
Nishimura-ke and Umetsuji-ke Garden Guide
This eBook introduces the Nishimura-ke and Umetsuji-ke residences in Kyoto’s Shake-machi, the historic neighborhood of Kamigamo Shrine priests.
Perfect for those interested in Shinto heritage, architecture, and Kyoto’s hidden corners.
Learn more before your visit—or revisit from home.
Gallery
Directions
How to get to the garden
Take the city bus number 9 or 4 from Kyoto station. Bus no.9 stops at Kamigamo-Misono-bashi (上賀茂御薗橋). If you take bus 4 or 46, get off at the last stop Kamigamo-jinja-mae (上賀茂神社前). Walk in eastern direction, following the small river. The Nishimura residence will be on your right hand side. For the Umetsuji residence, go straight ahead, when the river makes a right turn (at the 500 year old tree).
Address
- EN: 1 Kamigamo Nakaojicho, Kita Ward, Kyoto, 603-8075
- JP: 京都府京都市北区上賀茂中大路町1
Opening times
- March 15 - December 8: 9:30 – 16:30 (last entry at 4:00pm)
Admission fee
- Adults: 500 yen
- Elementary School Students and younger: 250 yen
Facilities & Accessibility
- The gardens and houses are not barrier free.
Best time to visit
- In spring for green moss and fresh maple leaves.
- End of November - Beginning of December for autumn foliage.
No Comments on “Nishimura-ke and Umetsuji-ke （西村家 梅辻家 社家町）”
The comment section is closed.