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About the Video on Heian Shrine

This video, titled “Heian Shrine - Kyoto - 平安神宮,” was released by “TokyoStreetView - Japan The Beautiful.”
It showcases the dignified Heian Shrine in Kyoto.

The contrast between the dark green roof and vermilion walls of Heian Shrine is beautiful, and it's a hot spot for Instagrammers.
What kind of place is the popular destination in Kyoto?

The Origins and History of Heian Shrine

Image of Soryuro at Heian Shrine, Kyoto
Photo:Soryuro at Heian Shrine, Kyoto

Heian Shrine (平安神宮) was built in 1895 as the main attraction of the National Industrial Exposition held to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the relocation of the capital.
The name "Heian Shrine" comes from a plan to partially restore the inner sanctum of Heian Palace at the time of the capital's relocation.

Heian Shrine was founded as a shrine dedicated to Emperor Kammu (桓武天皇), the 50th emperor of Japan, and Emperor Komei (孝明天皇) was later added as a deity.

A Closer Look at the Majestic Heian Shrine

Image of Soryuro at Heian Shrine, Kyoto
Photo:Soryuro at Heian Shrine, Kyoto

The main building of the shrine is a reconstruction of Kyoto's Chodoin Temple (朝堂院), which was reduced in size (about five eighths in length).
After passing Keiryu Bridge (慶流橋) and the torii gate (registered as a national cultural property), the symbol of Okazaki in Kyoto, and entering the vermilion Otenmon Gate (応天門), you'll be welcomed by majestic buildings, such as the main shrine Daigokuden (大極殿, an important cultural property), the inner shrine with its beautiful hanging lanterns, Ryubidan (龍尾壇, an important cultural property), and the towers Soryuro (蒼龍楼) and Byakkoro (白虎楼) (important cultural properties).

Within the precincts of the temple, there are also buildings such as the Kagura Hall (神楽殿) and Gakuden (額殿) (registered as national cultural properties), Otenmon Gate (important cultural property), and Shobikan (尚美館, a guest house).
The Heian Jingu Shrine Event Hall (平安神宮会館) is also used as a venue for weddings.

The Highlights and Events of Heian Shrine

Image of Heian Shrine, Kyoto
Photo:Heian Shrine, Kyoto

The Heian Shrine Garden, created in the Meiji Period by the famous Japanese garden architect Ogawa Jihei VII (小川治兵衛) and others, is a Japanese garden with an area of about 10,000 tsubo (~30,000 square meters).

The four gardens, located in the east, center, west, and south, are a "pond garden" with a spectacular view of cherry blossoms in spring, irises in early summer, and beautiful autumn foliage in the fall.
In addition to the Festival of the Ages, one of the three major festivals in Kyoto, Heian Shrine also hosts seasonal events, such as Takigi Noh (a Noh play), so be sure to check them out as well.

Summary of Heian Shrine

Image of Otenmon Gate at Heian Shrine, Kyoto
Photo:Otenmon Gate at Heian Shrine, Kyoto

Heian Shrine, featured in the video, is one of the most popular and famous tourist attractions in Kyoto. Be sure to pick up a marriage talisman or shuin stamp when you visit Heian Shrine.
There are many Japanese restaurants and cafes around Heian Shrine, which makes it a fulfilling sightseeing experience.
You can also visit Okazaki Park, the National Museum of Modern Art in Kyoto, and the Kyoto City Zoo near Heian Shrine.

◆Heian Shrine|Facility Overview◆
【Address】Okazaki Nishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, 606-8341
【Access】A 10-minute walk from Higashiyama Station off the Tozai Subway Line, or a 5-minute walk from the Kyoto Kaikan Museum of Art by city bus.
【Hours】Garden viewing hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
【Admission Fee】Adults ¥600, children ¥300
【Parking】Available (Paid)
【Telephone】075-761-0221

【Official Website】Official] Heian Shrine - Kyoto|Information on Heian Shrine and Shinto wedding ceremonies|Prayers for the Seven-Five-Three Festival and other events, and introductions to the scenic Shinto garden
http://www.heianjingu.or.jp/index.html

【Tripadvisor】Heian Shrine
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d1386117-Reviews-Heian_Shrine-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html

Written By
Last Updated : Jul. 23, 2022
Japan
坂崎 なお(Nao Sakazaki)
Interested in Japanese culture and traditions! I'll be introducing lovely scenery to you!
Heian Shrine Is a Popular Sightseeing Spot You Don't Want To Miss When Visiting Kyoto! Vermilion Shrines, Scenic Gardens, and Many More Sights Make It One of Kyoto's Top Power Spots!
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