What is Yasaka Shrine famous for?

Yasaka Shrine is renowned for hosting the Gion Matsuri in July, a festival that stands as one of Japan's most celebrated events. During this time, Kyoto transforms into a hub of festivities, captivating the city in a month-long spirit of celebration.

Is Yasaka Shrine worth visiting?

This vibrant and expansive Yasaka Shrine, the protective beacon of the Gion entertainment district, offers a must-visit cultural experience in Southern Higashiyama and seamlessly integrates with the scenic Maruyama-kōen uphill.

How long do you spend in the Yasaka Shrine?

It is ideal for a brief 15-30 minute exploration on a serene night, especially for photography enthusiasts, but optional in your travel plans.

Who are the deities in the Yasaka Shrine?

Namba Yasaka Shrine venerates Susano-no-mikoto, Kushi-inadahime-no-mikoto, and Yahashira-miko-no-mikoto as its three principal deities.

When to visit the Yasaka Shrine?

Yasaka Shrine, accessible 24/7 year-round without an admission fee, offers a unique opportunity to immerse in the tranquility of ancient Kyoto day and night.

Kyoto

Yasaka Shrine

4.4 (33399)Shinto ShrineTourist AttractionPlace Of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, stands as one of Kyoto's most prominent Shinto shrines, located in the historic Gion district at the eastern end of Shijō-dōri street. The shrine's origins trace back over 1,350 years to 656 CE, though some accounts place its founding in 876 CE. Throughout its history, Yasaka Shrine has served as the guardian shrine of the Gion entertainment district and remains deeply integrated into Kyoto's cultural fabric. The shrine was historically called Gion Shrine until the Meiji Restoration in 1868, when it adopted its current name.

The shrine holds immense cultural significance as the host of the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's three greatest festivals, which takes place throughout July each year. This month-long celebration, dating back to 869 CE, was originally organized to appease the gods during a plague epidemic. The festival's highlight occurs on July 17th, when massive decorated floats called yamaboko parade through central Kyoto, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors. The shrine's main deities include Susanoo-no-mikoto, the Shinto god of storms and seas, along with his consort and eight children.

Visitors enter through the impressive two-story vermillion gate on Higashiōji-dōri, one of the largest shrine gates in Japan. The main hall features striking red and white architecture typical of shrine construction, while the grounds include multiple smaller shrines and halls dedicated to various deities. The shrine's connection to the geisha district means visitors often spot maiko and geiko passing through on their way to evening appointments. Evening visits are particularly atmospheric when the shrine's lanterns illuminate the grounds, creating a magical ambiance that contrasts with Kyoto's modern surroundings.

Yasaka Shrine is located in the Higashiyama district, accessible via a short walk from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line or Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line, both requiring approximately 5-10 minutes on foot. From Kyoto Station, city buses 100 and 206 stop nearby at Gion. The shrine maintains free admission year-round and remains open 24 hours daily, making it convenient for visitors to explore at any time. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby attractions including Maruyama Park, which lies directly behind the shrine, and the preserved streets of Higashiyama.

Phone

+81 75-561-6155

Website

www.yasaka-jinja.or.jp

Overview

Address

625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan

Traveler reviews

We stumbled upon Yasaka Shrine around sunset after walking down Shijo-dori Street. After passing through the striking vermilion gate, we wandered the grounds as the sun set. It was truly magical with the many glowing lanterns lighting up the pathways to several shrines. The central open pavilion is brilliantly lit with rows of lanterns after dark. Directly behind Yasaka Shrine is Maruyama Park. We followed the stream back into the park and found a cool Starbucks with some raised tatami seating areas. The park grounds were beautiful and tranquil. Overall, it was one of our favorite places in Kyoto. Yasaka Shrine is also special because it’s free and open 24 hours a day. I recommend going in the evening when the crowds thin out and the lanterns are lit.

Ginger

Jun 18, 2026

After our visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple we headed to Yasaka shrine along with our tour guide. I visit I could have reached early to get the goshuin but we reached when the lights go on of the shrine. The shrine is accessible from the famous Gion district and the other path that I took from Kiyomizu dera temple. People start visiting this place just in time to watch the lights go on. I prayed for beauty at one of the smaller shrines on the same complex with the help of my guide. Admission is free.

Mallika Jamy

Jun 17, 2026

Yasaka Shrine was absolutely beautiful and ended up being one of our favorite spots in Kyoto. We visited right before sunset and stayed long enough to see the lanterns turn on, which was such a special experience. It was amazing to see the shrine both in the softer daylight and then lit up in the evening. The sunset view looking out over the city street was gorgeous and made the whole area feel especially memorable. There is also plenty to do nearby, so it’s a great place to explore before heading to dinner. It’s directly next to Maruyama Park, which is definitely worth visiting while you’re there and makes the whole area even more enjoyable to walk around.

A Brown

Mar 29, 2026

I visited on a weekend, so the place was fairly crowded. Two rows of food stalls lined the entrance, creating a wonderful lively atmosphere. This shrine is decorated with countless lanterns, which all light up together at a set time after dark. Lots of visitors come specifically for this spectacular lighting moment. It’s well worth a visit if you’re staying nearby, but there’s no need to make a special long trip just to see it.

xu kora

Jun 6, 2026

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Yasaka Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and atmospheric shrines, especially beautiful in the evening when the lanterns are softly lit. Located right between Gion and the Higashiyama area, it feels like a natural starting or ending point when exploring the neighbourhood. The shrine grounds are spacious and lively, often filled with both locals and visitors, yet it still maintains a strong sense of tradition and spirituality. The vibrant colours of the buildings and the open courtyard create a striking contrast with the surrounding city streets. A must-visit spot that captures the energy and culture of Kyoto in one place.