Yasaka Shrine Kyoto

Japan Winter 2024

Kyoto | Japan

26 Feb 2024 | Mon

Day 07 of 17

Yasaka Shrine Kyoto
Maruyama Park
Chion-in Temple Kyoto
Mausoleum Emperor Hanazono Kyoto
Shorenin Monzeki
Hatsune Sushi Kyoto
Walk to Nanzen-ji Temple
Nanzenji Temple Kyoto

Today, our Kyoto adventure began with a morning visit to the Yasaka Shrine. We had a glimpse of its beauty on our first evening, as we strolled through the temple grounds illuminated in the night. But today, we experienced it in the fresh light of the morning. The shrine, known for its history and cultural significance, presented a different charm in the daylight. This was our first stop in a day filled with exploration in this captivating part of Kyoto.

Yasaka-Shrine-at-Night-01 — Yasaka Jinja Nishiromon Gate Entrance at Night

One of the things we enjoy most about Kyoto is the abundance of historical sites it has to offer. From ancient temples to traditional tea houses, there’s always something new to discover. But what we love most is the convenience of being able to walk to all these sites. It’s not just about seeing the sights, but also about immersing ourselves in the city’s rich history and culture as we move from one place to another. Walking through the city, we get to experience the blend of old and new, tradition and innovation that is so characteristic of Kyoto.

Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社, Yasaka-jinja), once called Gion Shrine (祇園神社, Gion-jinja), is a Shinto shrine in the Gion District of Kyoto, Japan. Situated at the east end of Shijō-dōri (Fourth Avenue), the shrine includes several buildings, including gates, a main hall and a stage. The Yasaka shrine is dedicated to Susanoo in the tradition of the Gion faith as its chief kami, with his consort Kushinadahime on the east, and eight offspring deities (yahashira no mikogami) on the west.

Initial construction on the Shrine began in 656. The Shrine became the object of Imperial patronage during the early Heian period.

Today, in addition to hosting the Gion Matsuri, Yasaka Shrine welcomes thousands of people every New Year, for traditional Japanese New Year rituals and celebrations. In April, the crowds pass through the temple on their way to Maruyama Park, a popular hanami (cherry blossom viewing) site. Lanterns decorate the stage with the names of festival sponsors

– Yasaka Shrine Kyoto > Wikipedia