This can’t-miss shrine is one of my favorites! I came here often when I studied abroad in Osaka, and I was really happy to be able to see it again on my recent trip to Kyoto. It’s got everything — impressive gates, plenty of greenery, a giant festival (one of the most famous in the country), and a goshuin.
Where exactly is Yasaka Shrine?
Yasaka Shrine is located in the famous and touristy Gion District. It is also called Gion Shrine because of this! If you walk up through Gion from the station, it’s at the end of the road. You literally can’t miss it! Its large, red gate is too eye-catching.
One of my favorite things about it is that even though it’s in Gion, which is loud and crowded, once you pass through the gate the trees and buildings on the grounds work to dampen most of that noise. I love finding places in large cities where street noise isn’t noticeable!
Speaking of the grounds…
There are many beautiful buildings on the grounds. The one that sticks out the most is a large stage for traditional dances that has lots of lanterns decorating the top. Local businesses gave the shrine money to have their names written on them, and the sight of them lit up at night is a must-see!
The main shrine itself is also very beautiful. The size of the front alone should tell you how popular this shrine is. Where most only have one set of bells to ring and one offering box, Yasuka Shrine has three sets of bells and one giant offering box!
The rest of the grounds are definitely worth taking a stroll around. There are lots of smaller shrines dotting the nooks and crannies.
The Goshuin
The last time I visited, the shrine had many different goshuin to choose from. I choose a bright blue one which was in celebration of Yasaka Shrine being designated as a national treasure. Below are that one and a normal one I received a couple of years ago.
