Tatsumi Shrine sits beside Tatsumi Bridge in Shirakawa, Gion, Kyoto. Its name comes from Tatsumi, meaning the southeast of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, and it is a place to pray for improvement in artistic skill and for prosperity in business, visited by geisha and maiko. In spring, cherry blossoms cover the shrine and blend with the old streetscape of Gion. It is crowded with tourists day and night, so visit early.