Kanpei-taisha

Heian Jingu

平安神宮

Heian Jingu
Image: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA)
Admission
Free (garden: 600 yen)
Goshuin
300 yen
Access
10 min walk
Hours
6:00-18:00 (varies)

Overview

Heian Jingu was built in 1895 to celebrate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto's establishment as the imperial capital. The shrine buildings are a 5/8-scale replica of the Daigokuden (Great Hall of State) of the original Heian-era palace, offering visitors a vivid impression of ancient imperial architecture. The shrine's massive vermilion torii gate, one of the largest in Japan at 24 meters tall, has become one of Kyoto's most recognizable landmarks. Behind the main buildings lies one of Kyoto's finest gardens, designed by the great landscape architect Ogawa Jihei, featuring spectacular weeping cherry trees in spring.

History

Founding

📄
Documented
1895

Source: Built for the 1100th anniversary of the capital's founding

Enshrined Deities

primary Deity

The 50th emperor (737–806); moved the capital to Heiankyō (Kyoto); founder of Japan's ancient capital culture

primary Deity

The 121st emperor (1831–1867); last emperor before the Meiji Restoration; staunchly opposed foreign influence

Blessings

Shrine Network

Did You Know?

💡

The Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages) parade features people in costumes representing every era from the Heian period to the Meiji era.

Source: documented

Practical Information

Location Coordinates

35.0161, 135.7822

Physical Address

97 Okazaki Nishi-Tenno-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto

京都府京都市左京区岡崎西天王町97

Historical Province

Yamashiro / Tanba / Tango

Access

Higashiyama Station (Kyoto Subway Tozai Line)

10 min walk

Hours

6:00-18:00 (varies)

Bus

City Bus #5 to Okazaki Koen

Best Times to Visit

April (cherry blossoms in garden)October (Jidai Matsuri)

Foreign Language Support

English (pamphlet, sign)

Accessibility

Partial

Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.

Why This Shrine

A vivid recreation of Heian-era imperial architecture with one of Japan's largest torii gates. Home to the spectacular Jidai Matsuri and one of Kyoto's finest gardens.

Related Shrines

Learn More About Shinto Shrines

Background reading for visitors and pilgrims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team

What is Heian Jingu?

Heian Jingu was built in 1895 to celebrate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto's establishment as the imperial capital. The shrine buildings are a 5/8-scale replica of the Daigokuden (Great Hall of State) of the original Heian-era palace, offering visitors a vivid impression of ancient imperial architecture. The shrine's massive vermilion torii gate, one of the largest in Japan at 24 meters tall, has become one of Kyoto's most recognizable landmarks. Behind the main buildings lies one of Kyoto's finest gardens, designed by the great landscape architect Ogawa Jihei, featuring spectacular weeping cherry trees in spring.

Where is Heian Jingu located?

Heian Jingu is located in Kyoto-shi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto. The full address is: 97 Okazaki Nishi-Tenno-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto.

What deities are enshrined at Heian Jingu?

The enshrined deities are: Emperor Kanmu, Emperor Komei.

What blessings can you pray for at Heian Jingu?

Heian Jingu is known for: National Prosperity, Protection of the Capital.

How do I get to Heian Jingu?

The nearest station is Higashiyama Station (Kyoto Subway Tozai Line). It is about a 10-minute walk from the station. City Bus #5 to Okazaki Koen