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Shrine · Kyoto · Kansai

Heian Shrine

平安神宮

A highly-ranked Shinto shrine in Kyoto built in 1895 to commemorate the city's 1100th anniversary and dedicated to Emperor Kanmu.

Heian Shrine, Kyoto
Heian Shrine, Kyoto © Saigen Jiro, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Access
97, Okazakinishitennocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto
〒 606-8341
How to get there
Nearest stationHigashiyama Station
東山
12 min walk from the station
Nearest bus stop平安神宮・美術館2 min walk from the bus stop

The Heian Shrine, situated in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, holds a prominent place among Shinto shrines. It has earned the prestigious title of Beppyo Jinja, signifying the highest rank for shrines, as designated by the Association of Shinto Shrines. Additionally, it is recognized as an important cultural property of Japan.

Following Kyoto's loss of its capital status due to the capital's relocation to Tokyo, concerns arose within the city and prefectural government. There was apprehension about the waning prestige of Kyoto and the potential decline in the city's appeal to its residents. In response, a decision was made to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the city's founding. To mark this momentous occasion, the city government undertook the construction of the Heian Shrine, a sacred place dedicated to Emperor Kanmu. Emperor Kanmu was the visionary leader responsible for establishing Kyoto as Heian-kyo in 794. In 1895, this endeavor led to the inauguration of the first Jidai festival. Even today, the festival's grand procession begins at the Imperial Palace and concludes at the Heian Shrine.

Getting There

Map: Getting to Heian Shrine. Legend: Keihan Oto Line; Keihan Main Line; Shinkansen. Labelled stations: Kyoto, Osaka, Yamashina, Kizu, Shin-Osaka, Rokujizo, Yodoyabashi, Higashiyama, Sanjo, Jingu-Marutamachi, Demachiyanagi.

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