Heian Shrine: A Celebration of Kyoto's Imperial Past
Discover Heian Shrine in Kyoto: A vibrant tribute to the city's imperial past and architectural grandeur, complete with stunning gardens.
Heian Shrine, built in 1895 to commemorate Kyoto's 1100th anniversary as the capital, is a vibrant Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperors Kammu and Komei. Its architecture is a scaled-down replica of the Heian Imperial Palace, featuring a giant torii gate and spacious grounds.
A brief summary to Heian Shrine
- 97 Okazaki Nishitennocho, Kyoto, Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8341, JP
- +8175-761-0221
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
- Thursday 6 am-7 pm
- Friday 6 am-7 pm
- Saturday 6 am-7 pm
- Sunday 6 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially if you want to explore the main shrine grounds without many people around.
- The Heian Shrine Garden requires a separate admission fee but is well worth a visit, especially during cherry blossom season in mid-April.
- Check the shrine's calendar for special events and festivals, such as the Jidai Festival on October 22nd, for a unique cultural experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the courtyard is covered in gravel, which can be challenging to walk on, especially for those with mobility issues.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus number 5 to the Okazaki Koen Bijutsukan/Heian Jingu-mae bus stop. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes and costs ¥230. From the bus stop, it is a short 5-minute walk to the shrine. Alternatively, take the Tozai Subway Line to Higashiyama Station, then walk approximately 10 minutes to the shrine.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Kyoto. A taxi from Kyoto Station to Heian Shrine takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare will likely cost between ¥2,400 and ¥2,900. Simply tell the driver 'Heian Jingu'.
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Walking
From the Gion-Kiyomizu area, you can take City Bus #201, #203, or #206 and get off at Higashiyama Nijo bus stop, followed by a 5-minute walk east. Alternatively, it is a 15-20 minute walk from Nanzen-ji Temple to Heian Shrine. Be aware that the main courtyard is covered in gravel, which may be difficult to navigate with wheeled luggage or accessibility issues.
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