Heian Jingu Shrine
Explore expansive imperial gardens behind Kyoto's grand vermillion shrine
Heian Jingu Shrine was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the establishment of Kyoto (then called Heian-kyo) as Japan's capital. Unlike most Kyoto shrines with centuries of history, Heian Jingu is relatively modern, constructed as a partial replica of the original Heian Period Imperial Palace at 5/8 scale. The shrine is dedicated to Emperor Kanmu, who founded Heian-kyo in 794, and later Emperor Komei, the last emperor of the Edo period, was added as an enshrined deity in 1940.
The shrine's massive torii gate, standing 24.4 meters tall, was built in 1929 and is one of Japan's largest. It marks the approach to the shrine across Okazaki Park and has become an iconic Kyoto landmark. The shrine buildings showcase the architectural style of the Heian period (794-1185), considered the golden age of Japanese culture, with bright vermillion columns and white walls creating striking contrasts. The main hall's design reflects the grandeur of the ancient imperial palace that once stood in central Kyoto.
The shrine's crown jewel is its expansive Shin'en Garden, created by renowned landscape designer Ogawa Jihei VII. The 33,000 square meter strolling garden surrounds the shrine buildings in four sections representing different seasons and historical periods. The gardens showcase weeping cherry trees, irises, water lilies, and autumn foliage, with carefully designed viewing pavilions and bridges. Today, Heian Jingu serves as one of Kyoto's premier cultural sites and hosts the famous Jidai Matsuri festival each October, one of Kyoto's three great festivals.
Key Highlights
- Partial 5/8-scale replica of Heian Period Imperial Palace (built 1895)
- Massive 24.4-meter torii gate - one of Japan's largest
- Spectacular Shin'en Garden with four seasonal sections (33,000 sq meters)
- Famous for weeping cherry blossoms over pond in spring
- Water lilies and irises in summer, autumn foliage in November
- Jidai Matsuri historical festival held annually in October
- Bright vermillion buildings and white gravel create photogenic contrast
- Easy access from central Kyoto and Philosopher's Path area
Access Information
Location
97 Okazaki Nishitenno-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8341
Nearest Stations
- • Higashiyama Station (Kyoto Metro Tozai Line) - 10-minute walk
- • Keage Station (Kyoto Metro Tozai Line) - 15-minute walk
Opening Hours
Shrine grounds: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM (free). Shin'en Garden: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (March-October), 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (November-February), extended to 6:00 PM during special illumination events. Open daily year-round.
Admission Fee
Shrine grounds: Free. Shin'en Garden: Adults ¥600, Children ¥300. Spring evening cherry blossom illumination concerts (late March-April): ¥2,000-¥2,400 (advance tickets required, very popular).
How to Get There
From Kyoto Station
Take City Bus #5 or #100 to Kyoto Kaikan Bijutsukan-mae stop (30 minutes, ¥230), then walk 5 minutes east through giant torii gate. Or take subway Karasuma Line to Karasuma Oike, transfer to Tozai Line to Higashiyama (20 min), walk 10 min.
30 minutes
From Gion/Downtown
Walk northeast through Maruyama Park and past Chion-in Temple (20-25 minutes on foot). Or take bus #5 from Shijo Kawaramachi (15 minutes)
20 minutes
From Philosopher's Path
Walk west from southern end of path near Nanzen-ji through Okazaki Park area (20 minutes on foot)
20 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Cherry Blossom Season
The weeping cherry trees over the pond (late March-early April) are spectacular and among Kyoto's best. Evening illumination concerts held during peak bloom require advance tickets (sell out quickly). Daytime garden viewing less crowded than illumination events. Peak bloom typically early April.
Photography Highlights
The massive torii gate from Okazaki Park with shrine buildings behind is iconic. Weeping cherries reflected in the pond are stunning. The bright vermillion buildings against blue sky create vivid photos. Garden's Taihei-kaku bridge over pond is photogenic in all seasons.
Garden Highlights
The garden has four sections: South Garden (weeping cherries, pond), West Garden (irises, water lilies), Middle Garden (stream), East Garden (Taihei-kaku bridge). Allow 45-60 minutes to walk the full circuit. Each section represents different seasons and historical periods. Spring and autumn most impressive.
Best Visiting Times
Early morning (8:30-9:30 AM) for peaceful garden experience. Spring cherry season and autumn foliage (late November) are peak times but manageable. Summer irises and water lilies (June) are beautiful with fewer crowds. Gardens are spacious enough to absorb visitors comfortably.
Jidai Matsuri Festival
One of Kyoto's three great festivals held October 22nd annually. Historical costume procession features 2,000 participants in period dress from 1,000+ years of Kyoto history. Procession starts at Imperial Palace and ends at Heian Jingu. Free to watch along the route.
Shrine Grounds vs Garden
Many visitors only see the free shrine grounds and miss the spectacular garden behind. The garden entrance is to the left of main shrine building. Don't leave without visiting the garden - it's the highlight. Shrine grounds take 15 minutes, garden adds 45-60 minutes.
Nearby Dining
Okazaki Park area has cafes and restaurants. The nearby Kyoto City Museum of Art and National Museum of Modern Art have cafes. Traditional restaurants along approach road. Popular cafe Starbucks Kyoto Okazaki is in renovated historical building nearby.
Combination Itinerary
Easily combine with Philosopher's Path, Nanzen-ji Temple, Kyoto City Museum of Art, and Okazaki Park area in half to full-day itinerary. The area is Kyoto's cultural district. Walk to/from Gion area through pleasant neighborhoods (25 minutes).
FAQ
How long should I spend at Heian Jingu?
The main shrine courtyard takes 15-20 minutes to explore. The expansive gardens behind the shrine deserve 45-60 minutes for a complete walk. Together, plan for 60-90 minutes. During cherry blossom or iris seasons, visitors often spend 2 hours enjoying the gardens.
Is the garden worth the separate admission fee?
Absolutely. The Shin-en Garden is one of Kyoto's most beautiful, featuring seasonal flowers, ponds, bridges, and the famous weeping cherry trees. The garden is particularly stunning during cherry blossom season (early April) and when irises bloom (early June). Well worth the modest fee.
When are the weeping cherry blossoms at their best?
The famous weeping cherry trees in the garden typically peak in early to mid-April, usually a week after Kyoto's standard cherry trees. The reflection of pink blossoms in the pond creates iconic scenes. This is the busiest period, so arrive early morning for the best experience.
What is the large torii gate I see from far away?
The massive vermilion torii at the shrine's approach is one of Japan's largest at 24.4 meters tall. It stands at the intersection leading to the shrine and is visible from far down Jingu-michi street. Walking through this impressive gate is part of the approach experience.
Can I attend a wedding ceremony at the shrine?
Heian Jingu is a popular wedding venue for traditional Shinto ceremonies. If you visit, you might witness a wedding procession. Observe respectfully from a distance and avoid interfering with the ceremony. Photography of wedding parties should be done discreetly. These ceremonies add to the cultural experience.
What festivals or events are held here?
The most famous event is the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages) on October 22nd, featuring a grand historical procession with over 2,000 participants in period costumes. Other events include New Year celebrations and seasonal festivals. Check the calendar for special events during your visit.
Is there a dress code for visiting?
No strict dress code, but respectful attire is appropriate. The spacious grounds and gardens invite comfortable walking shoes. Many visitors wear kimono for photos, which is welcomed. If you plan to participate in prayer rituals, modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is respectful.
Are there English explanations available?
English pamphlets are available at the entrance, and some signage includes English. The garden has limited English descriptions. The shrine's visual beauty and peaceful atmosphere make language less critical. Consider researching the history beforehand for deeper appreciation.
Can I combine this with other nearby attractions?
Yes, Heian Jingu is near the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Okazaki Shrine, and the Philosopher's Path (15-minute walk). The area around the shrine has cafes and restaurants. A full day itinerary could include the shrine, museum, and a walk to Ginkaku-ji via the Philosopher's Path.
What makes the architecture special?
Built in 1895, Heian Jingu replicates the Imperial Palace from Kyoto's Heian Period on a 5/8 scale. The vibrant vermilion and green colors, massive courtyard, and architectural style showcase Heian-era design. Though relatively modern, it beautifully represents historical Japanese architecture.
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