Discover Heian Shrine: Built to Celebrate Kyoto’s 1100th Anniversary
Located in the Okazaki cultural district of Sakyo Ward, Heian Shrine (平安神宮) was constructed in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the foundation of Heian-kyo (ancient Kyoto).
Dedicated to Emperor Kammu and Emperor Komei, the shrine features grand, vermilion-painted structures built as a partial replica of the original Imperial Palace from the 8th century.
Top Highlights of Heian Shrine
- Giant Torii Gate: Standing 24 meters tall over Jingumichi Street, this striking red landmark is one of the largest Torii gates in Japan.
- Otenmon Gate & Daigokuden: Majestic main halls painted in brilliant red and green, creating a stunning contrast against the vast white gravel courtyard.
- Heian Shrine Shin-en Garden: A magnificent 30,000-square-meter Japanese landscape garden surrounding the main halls, designed by master gardener Ogawa Jihei.
- Taihei-kaku (Bridge Hall): A wooden covered bridge spanning across the Seiho-ike Pond, offering a peaceful spot to admire the garden reflection and surrounding nature.
Home of the Famous Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages)
Every year on October 22, Heian Shrine serves as the grand finish line for the Jidai Matsuri, one of Kyoto’s three major festivals.
A massive parade of nearly 2,000 participants wearing authentic historical costumes from various eras marches through the streets of Kyoto, bringing 1,000 years of Japanese history to life.
Visitor Information & Access
Heian Shrine is surrounded by Kyoto’s top cultural venues, including the Kyocera Museum of Art and ROHM Theatre Kyoto.
- Address: 97 Okazaki Nishitenno-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Garden hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, subject to seasonal change)
- Admission: Free to walk around the main shrine grounds (Shin-en Garden entry: Adults 600 yen / Children 300 yen)
- Access: A 10-minute walk from Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Subway Line, or a short walk from Okazaki Koen / Heian Jingu-mae Bus Stop.
