What other travelers are saying about Heian Shrine
We visited this shrine and found it absolutely beautiful. We also paid to access the garden, which was incredibly peaceful and calm. It was such a lovely experience walking around the shrine grounds everything felt serene and well cared for. A perfect spot to slow down and enjoy the quiet beauty of Kyoto.
It was so far the most beautiful and amazing shrine in Kyoto for us. In order to avoid the crowd, we visited it at 4.45pm, and we did not disappointed! No tour groups, no tourist flood, so we could slowly walk through the garden (which required an additional cost of JPY600pp), enjoyed the breeze, and admired the natural beauty. There were so many lovely corners in the garden. So mesmerizing, despite the main hall was still under restoration!!!
PSA: Visit the garden. That 600 yen fee was one of my best purchases. Out of all places I visited in Japan, Heian Jingu Garden is where I took the most photos. As for the main shrine itself, it was under renovation when I visited so I couldn't yap much about it.
It was a weekday afternoon in late spring and I had the honor to experience the garden with no other soul in sight. It's either tourists are sleeping on this place, Kyoto overtourism is a hoax, or I slipped into a glitch on the matrix. Anyway, just look at the pictures and you'll understand why this place is dangerous. One minute longer and I might delude myself that I'm the main lead in an imperial drama, instead of the NPC.
Technically you just visit the garden. I just visited in the summer. So it's not the best time. Why? Because the garden in this shrine is known for its cherry blossom!!
Ticket for the garden is 600 Y (4$)
I stopped by while walking back from Nanzenji Temple. There's a subway station not too far away.
Heian Jingu Shrine has a stunning large torii gate and wide open grounds. The architecture is impressive, and the garden (for a small fee) is very peaceful with ponds, flowers, and traditional bridges. A calm escape from the busy city and great spot for photos!
Constructed to celebrate Kyoto's 1,100th anniversary as Japan's capital, Heian-Jingu Shrine, distinguished by its majestic red torii gate, is a vibrant city emblem and a key destination for visitors.
Entry to the shrine grounds is free of charge.
It was built on March 15, 1895.
The Heian period, from 794 to 1185 in Japanese history, marks when the imperial capital was relocated from Nara to Heian-kyō (now Kyoto).
As the Fujiwara clan lost power and Japan transitioned into a shogunate under the control of rival warlords, the Heian period concluded, yet the era's aristocratic culture endured, continuing to shape Japanese identity.
