Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine)

The basics

The bright vermillion torii (gates) of Yasaka Shrine are a landmark in Kyoto’s Gion neighborhood. Locals often frequented the shrine–including geisha and maiko (trainee geisha) in traditional outfits. Once you have passed through the colorful two-story torii, you will find the main prayer hall and several other smaller ones, each with a different purpose. For example, at the Utsukushii Gozen-sha, you can pray for your beauty needs, whether for more beautiful skin, hair, or a more beautiful heart. Travelers usually visit the Yasaka Shrine on tours of Gion, whether independently or guided.

Things to know before you go

• Entry to the Yasaka Shrine is free.

• Like at many shrines around Japan, you can buy hanging wooden plaques to write your wishes and prayers on; at Yasaka Shrine, these are typically dedicated to beautifying wishes.

• Only priests and attendees of rituals and blessings can enter the main shrine building, so don’t go there unless you’re invited.

How to get there

Yasaka Shrine is in the Gion district, a culturally rich part of Kyoto that many travelers flock to. You can reach Gion and the shrine by bus or train from the centrally located Kyoto Station. Take buses 100 or 206 to Gion Station, the Keihan Line train to Gion Shijo Station, or the Hankyu Line train to Kawaramachi Station.

When to get there

Yasaka Shrine is open around the clock every day of the year, but general visiting hours are between 9am and 5pm. To enjoy it at its most festive (as long as you don’t mind crowds), visit during the famous Gion Matsuri (festival), which runs throughout July and dates back about 1,000 years. The shrine is also especially beautiful—and busy—during the cherry blossom viewing season, around early April.

See the cherry blossoms at Maruyama Park

Yasaka Shrine is especially busy during the cherry blossom viewing season in spring, and to make the most of this attractive time of year in Kyoto, head to Maruyama Park, right beside Yasaka Shrine. The public park is one of the best places in Kyoto to see the sakura and participate in a hanami (blossom-viewing party). The park’s large weeping cherry tree is even lit up at night.