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Heian Jingu: A Celebration of Kyoto's Imperial Past

Step back in time at Heian Jingu Shrine, a vibrant tribute to Kyoto's imperial past and the elegance of the Heian period.

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Heian Jingu Shrine, built in 1895, commemorates Kyoto's 1100th anniversary as Japan's capital. A scaled replica of the Heian Imperial Palace, it enshrines Emperor Kanmu and Emperor Komei, offering visitors a glimpse into the Heian period's grandeur.

A brief summary to Heian Jingu

Local tips

  • Visit during the Jidai Matsuri on October 22nd to witness a spectacular historical procession.
  • Explore the Shin-en Garden for seasonal beauty; the weeping cherry blossoms in mid-April are especially stunning.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Take time to appreciate the architecture, noting the Chinese influences and the shrine's replication of the Heian Imperial Palace.
  • Check out the red seal station next to the main gate to purchase a unique souvenir.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus number 5. Alight at the 'Okazaki Koen Bijutsukan/Heian Jingu-mae' bus stop, a 5-minute walk to the shrine. Alternatively, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Karasuma Oike Station, transfer to the Tozai Line, and get off at Higashiyama Station. The shrine is a 10-minute walk from Higashiyama Station. A single bus fare is ¥230. Subway fare is ¥260.

  • Taxi

    From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Heian Jingu Shrine typically costs between ¥1500 and ¥2000, depending on traffic. The journey usually takes around 15-20 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the station's taxi stands.

  • Walking

    From Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Subway Line, exit and walk east for approximately 10 minutes. Follow the signs for Heian Jingu Shrine, passing through the Okazaki area. Note that the route is about 1km.

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Discover more about Heian Jingu

Heian Jingu Shrine, established in 1895, marks the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto (formerly Heian-kyo) as Japan's imperial capital. Constructed as a 5/8 scale replica of the Heian Imperial Palace, the shrine provides a tangible link to Kyoto's rich history and cultural heritage. It is dedicated to Emperor Kanmu, who established Kyoto as the capital in 794, and Emperor Komei, the last emperor to rule from Kyoto before the capital moved to Tokyo. The shrine's architecture, influenced by the Chinese-inspired designs of the Heian period, distinguishes it from other shrines. A towering vermillion torii gate, standing over 24 meters high, marks the entrance and is one of the largest in Japan. The spacious courtyard leads to the main shrine buildings, which replicate the Chōdō-in, the Great Hall of State. Behind the main buildings lies the Shin-en Garden, a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty. This garden, designed by Ogawa Jihei VII, features ponds, streams, and seasonal flora across its four sections: the East, West, Middle, and South Gardens. The gardens showcase weeping cherry blossoms in spring, irises in early summer, and colorful foliage in the fall. A retired Kyoto City Tram is also on display in a corner of the garden. Heian Jingu Shrine hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. The Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages), held annually on October 22nd, features a procession of people dressed in historical costumes, recreating different periods of Japanese history. The Reisai Festival, on April 16th, celebrates Emperor Kanmu's rise to power and Kyoto's establishment as a cultural center.

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