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Heian Jingu Shrine

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Heian Jingu Shrine

A stunning tourist spot in Kyoto renowned for its beautifully vermilion-painted buildings.

4.30 5

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Supervised by :  Heian Jingu Shrine

Established in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the transfer of the capital to Heian-kyo, this shrine is relatively new. The buildings emulate the central government office, the "Chodo-in," where significant ceremonies took place during the Heian period. Once you step into the precincts, adorned with these vermilion structures, you feel as though you've time-traveled back to the Heian era.

Influenced by the main hall of the Chodo-in, the grand Daigokuden, along with intricately designed structures like the Byakko-ro and the Soryo-ro, are key cultural assets of the nation and are absolute must-sees. The shrine's iconic "Otorii" gate boasts an impressive scale at 24 meters in height and 18 meters in width.

The deities enshrined are Emperor Kanmu, the founder of Heian-kyo, and Emperor Komei, the last emperor of Heian-kyo. Believers seek blessings ranging from good fortune and prosperity in business to protection from misfortune and academic success. Before the war, many weddings took place before the deities, making it a revered power spot for romantic connections.

The Shin-en garden surrounding the buildings is divided into four areas representing the cardinal directions, each adorned with flowers of the seasons. The cherry blossoms in spring are particularly breathtaking, attracting numerous tourists.

Highlights

  • Founded in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the Heian-kyo establishment.
  • Magnificent vermilion buildings that replicate the Chodo-in of Heian-kyo.
  • Beautiful Shin-en garden adorned with seasonal flowers.
  • Also on display is a significant cultural property deeply related to the shrine's founding: the Kyoto City Electric Railway train, colloquially known as the "Chin-Chin train."

Photos

  • The iconic Otorii gate of Heian Jingu Shrine.

    The iconic Otorii gate of Heian Jingu Shrine.

  • The Shin-en garden adorned with cherry blossoms.

    The Shin-en garden adorned with cherry blossoms.

  • The magnificent Daigokuden.

    The magnificent Daigokuden.

  • Japan's oldest train, the Kyoto City Electric Railway train.

    Japan's oldest train, the Kyoto City Electric Railway train.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
A

English pamphlets available.

Q

Do you have shrine’s red ink stamps?
A

Yes.

Q

Is parking available?
A

Not available.

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

Not available.

Reviews

5

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • BobbyJenny
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    Heian Jingu Shrine is known for its vivid vermilion shrine buildings. The architecture is grand and elegant, showcasing Kyoto’s unique historical and cultural charm.

    The shrine garden is beautiful in every season, and walking through it lets you soak in a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a popular place to visit and pray in Kyoto.

  • Tony Millan
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    The huge red torii gate standing on the straight road is the most iconic symbol of Heian Jingu Shrine.

  • 孫玲
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    Heian Jingu Shrine was built to honor the emperor. The huge torii gate outside is a symbolic landmark.

  • 李麟
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    Kyoto has so many shrines and temples, but Heian Jingu really stands out with its unique appearance.

  • 張仕揚
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    You can freely explore the shrine. The inner garden is definitely worth visiting, but you'll need to buy a separate ticket. The double weeping cherry blossoms are stunning during sakura season.

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Details

Name in Japanese
平安神宮
Postal Code
606-8341
Address
97 Okazakinishitennocho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto
Telephone
075-761-0221
Holiday
Open every day
Hours
6:00am - 5:00pm (Extended to 5:30 pm or 6:00 pm depending on the season)
Admission
Shrine precincts are free.
Shin-en garden: Adults 600 yen, Elementary school children 300 yen (Entry from 8:30 AM until 30 minutes before closing time)
Access
Alight at the "Okazaki Koen Bijutsukan/Heian Jingu-mae" bus stop on the Kyoto City Bus and walk for 5 minutes.
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (English)
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