The Majestic South Tower Gate: A Gateway to Kyoto's Spiritual Heart
Discover the enchanting South Tower Gate at Yasaka Shrine, a vital part of Kyoto's spiritual heritage and a must-see for any traveler.
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the South Tower Gate of Yasaka Shrine is an iconic symbol of Japanese spirituality and culture. This stunning structure, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors, invites visitors to explore the serene beauty of the surrounding gardens and the rich history of Gion. Perfect for tourists seeking both tranquility and cultural immersion, this shrine is a must-visit destination in the city.
A brief summary to South Tower Gate
- 509 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Kyoto, Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, JP
- +8175-561-6155
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
- Don't miss the chance to explore the surrounding gardens for a peaceful escape.
- Check the festival calendar to experience the vibrant Gion Matsuri if you visit in July.
- Take part in the traditional practices, such as writing wishes on ema (wooden plaques) for a unique cultural experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to South Tower Gate in Kyoto, start by heading towards the Higashiyama Ward. From central Kyoto, you can take Route 1 or Route 367, both leading towards the Gion area. Follow signs for Gion and Yasaka Shrine. The address is 509 Gionmachi Minamigawa, which should be entered into your GPS. There are several parking lots in the area, but note that they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Parking fees typically range from 300 to 800 yen per hour.
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Public Transportation - Bus
From Kyoto Station, take the Kyoto City Bus #100 or #206 towards Gion. After about 30 minutes, get off at the 'Gion' stop. From there, South Tower Gate is a short 5-minute walk. Head east on Shijo Avenue, then turn left onto Hanamikoji Street. Continue walking straight until you reach South Tower Gate. The bus fare is approximately 230 yen.
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Public Transportation - Subway and Walk
Take the Karasuma Line from Kyoto Station and get off at Shijo Station. From Shijo Station, transfer to the Keihan Line at Sanjo Station. Take the train towards Demachiyanagi and get off at Gion-Shijo Station. Upon exiting the station, head towards Shijo Avenue and then walk east towards Hanamikoji Street. South Tower Gate is about a 10-minute walk from the station. The total fare for this journey is around 400 yen.
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Bicycle Rental
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle from one of the many rental shops in Kyoto. Cycle towards the Higashiyama Ward, following the path along the Kamo River. This scenic route will take you to Gion, where you can park your bike near South Tower Gate. Rental fees typically range from 1,000 to 2,000 yen for a full day.
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