KYOTO Curious Tales of Towns and Streets

Kyoto’s streets are home to thousands of towns, each with unique names that echo history and folklore. Names like Tenshi-Tsukinuke (Angel’s Passage),Tako-Yakushi (Octopus Medicine Buddha), Ichijoji Haraitono (The Name of a Lost Temple), Enma-Mae (Before the King of Hell), and Motohyakumanben (Million Chants) reflect the city’s ancient past and Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s urban reforms. Tenshi-Tsukinuke comes from Gojo Tenshingu Shrine, known as the Shrine of Angels. Once spread acrossvast grounds, it was divided by Hideyoshi’s road construction, creating a street known as Tenshi-Tsukinuke-dori (Angel’s Passage Street).

Tako-Yakushi-cho tells the story of an octopus transforming into a Buddha to heal a monk’s ailing mother. Though the temple was relocated, the name - and its healing reputation - remain.

Ichijoji Haraitono-cho was once home to the grand Ichijoji Temple. Today, visitors can explore Keibunsha, a bookstore reflecting the town’s intellectual heritage. The name“ Haraitono” likely means“ place of purification,” connectingto the area’s spiritual roots.

In Enma-Mae-cho, Senbon Enma-do Temple houses a revered statue of Enma, the King of Hell. For over a thousand years, this imposing figure has watched over the townspeople, offering both protection and guidance. The walk concludes in Motohyakumanben-cho, named after Chionji Temple, where a million prayers were once chanted to protect the nation. Today, its peaceful grounds offer a quiet retreat from city life.

Kyoto’s town and streets, beyond their famous landmarks, hold countless hidden stories. Take a walk through this ancient city and you may discover tales of Kyoto’s history waiting around every corner.