Shrine in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto
Heian Shrine
Built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto's founding, Heian Shrine is a replica of the original Heian-era imperial palace. The vermillion shrine buildings and massive torii gate (one of Japan's largest at 24 meters tall) are impressive, but the real gem is the surrounding Shin-en garden, featuring four interconnected traditional Japanese gardens. The shrine hosts the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages) parade each October.
Hours: 6:00AM-6:00PM (March-October); 6:00AM-5:30PM (November-February); garden 8:30AM-5PM
Best time: Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) for the famous weeping cherry trees in the garden
Best for: cultural heritage, gardens, festivals, photography
Location
Okazaki Nishitennnocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8341
35.0165, 135.7824 — View on map
Tips
- The Shin-en garden has stunning weeping cherry blossoms in spring
- The large torii gate is visible from several blocks away
- The Jidai Matsuri procession on October 22 is a magnificent historical pageant
- The garden has a stepping-stone path across lily ponds