What to know
Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社, Yasaka Jinja), also called Gion Shrine, is one of Kyoto's most celebrated shrines. Founded over 1,350 years ago, it sits between the lively Gion and Higashiyama districts, making it a frequent stop for travelers exploring both areas.
The main hall uniquely combines the inner sanctuary (honden) and offering hall (haiden) under one roof. In front, a dance stage is adorned with hundreds of lanterns that glow in the evening, each bearing the name of a local business that donated to the shrine.
Yasaka Shrine is famous for its summer festival, the Gion Matsuri, held every July. Considered Japan's most renowned festival, it dates back over a thousand years and features a grand procession of massive floats and hundreds of participants. The shrine also draws crowds during cherry blossom season in early April, as nearby Maruyama Park is one of Kyoto's top hanami spots.
From Kyoto Station, take bus number 206 to the Gion stop (about 20 minutes). The nearest train stations are Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line and Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line.
Alternatively, a scenic 20-30 minute walk from Kiyomizudera through the narrow lanes of Higashiyama District to Yasaka Shrine is highly recommended.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Always open
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- Free
- English name
- Yasaka Shrine
- Original name
- Yasaka Shrine
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.