What to know
Heian Shrine (平安神宮, Heian Jingū) is a relatively recent addition to Kyoto, built in 1895 to mark the 1100th anniversary of the city's founding. It honors Emperor Kammu (737-806) and Emperor Komei (1831-1867), the first and last emperors to rule from Kyoto. Heian is the former name of the city.
A giant torii gate marks the entrance, near which are a couple of museums. The shrine grounds are spacious, with a wide open court at the center. The main buildings are a partial replica of the original Heian Period Imperial Palace, built on a slightly smaller scale.
Behind the main buildings lies an attractive paid garden with ponds, plants, and structures. Its highlight is the many weeping cherry trees, which bloom a few days later than most, making it one of Kyoto's best cherry blossom spots around mid-April.
The shrine's court occasionally hosts special events, such as the Jidai Festival on October 22, the anniversary of Kyoto's foundation. The festival features a parade of people in historical costumes from the Kyoto Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine.
Heian Shrine is accessible by Kyoto City bus number 5 from Kyoto Station in about 30 minutes (230 yen). Alternatively, take the subway via Karasuma Oike Station to Higashiyama Station (20 minutes, 260 yen), then a 10-minute walk.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 6:00 to 17:30 (February 15 to March 14)
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- Free
- English name
- Heian Shrine
- Original name
- Heian Shrine
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.