Heian Shrine (Heian Jingu)
The basics
The Heian Shrine is a feature on the itineraries of several Kyoto tours, which typically also cover UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kiyomizu Temple, and Nijo Castle, which dates back to the 1600s. The quiet, flat streets and cycle paths of the city lend themselves well to bike tours, which allow you to cover more sights in less time without having to worry about getting stuck in traffic. Alternatively, bus tours provide a convenient option for time-pressed travelers.
Things to know before you go
- The shrine is a must-visit for history and culture buffs in Kyoto.
- Heian Shrine is a functioning place of worship for Shintoists, who you’re likely to see making offerings and saying prayers.
- Behind the main shrine, there’s a garden that costs extra to visit (a worthwhile expense during cherry blossom season).
How to get there
Heian Shrine is easily reachable via public transportation from Kyoto station. You can either take the number 5 or 100 bus or take the Tozai subway line to Higashiyama Station, which is a 10-minute walk from the shrine.
Trip ideas
When to get there
During the famous sakura (cherry blossom) season, which falls in the spring months of March and April, Heian Shrine is surrounded by powder-pink blossoms that make a great contrast to the vivid red structure. In October, the Festival of Ages sees the torii gate come to life with parades and celebrations.
Kyoto’s Shrining Stars
With more than 1,600 temples, Kyoto has a lot to offer in terms of history and culture, making planning an itinerary for a short sojourn difficult. Some must-see temples include the Golden Pavillion (Kinkaku-ji), which is reflected in the pond below it; Kiyomizu Temple (Kiyomizu-dera), one of the oldest shrines in Japan; and Tenryu-ji, hailed as one of Japan’s five great temples.
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- Shoren-in Temple
- Chion-in
- Nanzen-ji Temple
- Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple
- The Philosopher’s Path (Tetsugaku-no-michi)
- Kamogawa River (Kamo River)
- Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine)
- Pontocho Alley
- Kodai-ji Temple
- Gion Corner
- Kinshi Masamune Horino Memorial Museum
- Kennin-ji Temple
- Ginkaku-ji Temple (Silver Pavilion)
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