One of the pleasures of visiting Kiyoshikojin Seichoji Temple is strolling along the approach. Approximately 100 shops line the gently sloping 1.2 km path, offering a retro atmosphere and offering local cuisine and souvenirs.
4.1 The Atmosphere and Charm of Kiyoshikojin Approach
The approach to the temple, which begins at Hankyu Kiyoshikojin Station, is considered an auspicious path, likened to a “dragon ascending to heaven.” Along the path are rows of Japanese confectionery shops, tsukudani (food preserved in soy sauce), cafes, and restaurants, creating a retro atmosphere reminiscent of the Showa era. The path, where visitors can enjoy the changing nature of the seasons, is sure to soothe the souls of those who visit.
4.2 Don’t miss the famous “Kiyoshikojin Croquette”!
A representative gourmet dish on the approach to the shrine is the Takarazuka Croquette from Kitagawa Butcher, a long-established butcher shop located in front of Hankyu Kiyoshikojin Station. Made with A5-grade Japanese Black Beef, they are reasonably priced at 90 yen each. They are sold twice a day, at 10:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., and will close when sold out, so it’s best to visit early.
4.3 Food Stalls and Local Specialty Shops
There are many restaurants along the approach to the shrine where you can enjoy local flavors.
・Koji Kojin Kitchen: A new restaurant opened on April 27, 2025, offering healthy lunches using fermented foods.
・Marumiya: A restaurant with a Showa-era atmosphere, its signature dishes, “Koji Udon” and “Koji Soba,” are popular.
・Senjuan Kiyoshikojin Branch: A Japanese confectionery shop known for its freshly baked kintsuba (sweet bean paste), perfect for souvenirs.
・Sanshoya Honke: A long-established shop founded over 90 years ago, its popular dishes include sansho pepper and kelp tsukudani (simmered food preserves).
Enjoying the food while touring these shops is one of the highlights of the Kiyoshikojin approach.
4.4 List of Talismans, Charms, and Kiyoshikojin-Exclusive Souvenirs
Kiyoshikojin Seichoji Temple offers a variety of talismans and charisma.
The ofuda, which are said to grant benefits such as fire prevention, household safety, and business prosperity, are particularly popular with many worshippers.
In addition, souvenirs exclusive to Kiyoshikojin are also sold in the shops along the approach to the shrine.
- Ofuda and O-mamori: Ofuda and O-mamori are given out, and are said to grant benefits such as fire prevention, household safety, and business prosperity.
- Kiyoshikojin-exclusive souvenirs: Souvenirs exclusive to Kiyoshikojin are also sold in the shops along the approach to the shrine.
Be sure to pick one up as a memento of your visit or as a gift for a loved one.