Hikawa Shrine (Omiya)
氷川神社
Saitama · Saitama (Omiya)
Hikawa Ichinomiya Matchmaking
Yasaka Shrine
八坂神社
/ Yasaka Jinja
Nijunisha
Admission
Free
Goshuin (Temple Seal)
300 yen
Access
5 min walk
Hours
24 hours
Overview
Yasaka Shrine stands at the eastern end of Kyoto's Shijo-dori, marking the entrance to the historic Gion district. As the head of approximately 2,300 Yasaka and Gion shrines, it holds a central position in the worship of Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The shrine is most famous as the home of the Gion Matsuri, widely considered Japan's greatest festival. Originating in 869 as a ritual to halt a devastating plague, the festival has grown into a month-long celebration throughout July, featuring magnificent float processions that are UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The shrine is also beloved for Maruyama Park behind it, Kyoto's most popular cherry blossom viewing spot, where the famous weeping cherry tree creates a magical scene when illuminated at night.
History
Founding
📜According to tradition
656 [Saimei 2]
Head of about 2,300 Yasaka and Gion shrines. Home of the Gion Matsuri, Japan's most famous festival, held throughout July.
869📄Documented
Gion Goryo-e held for the first time to quell a plague, the origin of the Gion Matsuri
Enshrined Deities
⛩
primary Deity
God of storms, the sea, and martial valor; also revered as a deity of plague prevention
Blessings
Shrine Network
Yasaka/Gion Head shrine (souhonsha)
Did You Know?
💡
The Gion Matsuri originated in 869 as a ritual to stop a plague and has continued for over 1,100 years.
Source: documented
💡
The neighborhood of Gion takes its name from this shrine's historical association with the Buddhist Gion Shoja (Jetavana Monastery).
Source: documented
In Pop Culture
anime / 2018
Jujutsu Kaisen Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto. Located in the Gion area referenced in the Kyoto Goodwill Event arc.
Practical Information
Location Coordinates
35.0036, 135.7786
Physical Address
625 Gion-machi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
京都府京都市東山区祇園町北側625
Access
Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan)
5 min walk
Hours
24 hours
Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team
What is Yasaka Shrine?
Yasaka Shrine stands at the eastern end of Kyoto's Shijo-dori, marking the entrance to the historic Gion district. As the head of approximately 2,300 Yasaka and Gion shrines, it holds a central position in the worship of Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The shrine is most famous as the home of the Gion Matsuri, widely considered Japan's greatest festival. Originating in 869 as a ritual to halt a devastating plague, the festival has grown into a month-long celebration throughout July, featuring magnificent float processions that are UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The shrine is also beloved for Maruyama Park behind it, Kyoto's most popular cherry blossom viewing spot, where the famous weeping cherry tree creates a magical scene when illuminated at night.
Where is Yasaka Shrine located?
Yasaka Shrine is located in Kyoto-shi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. The full address is: 625 Gion-machi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto.
What deities are enshrined at Yasaka Shrine?
The enshrined deities are: Susanoo no Mikoto.
What blessings can you pray for at Yasaka Shrine?
Yasaka Shrine is known for: Warding Off Plague/Disease, General Prosperity, Beauty.
How do I get to Yasaka Shrine?
The nearest station is Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan). It is about a 5-minute walk from the station. City Bus #100/206 to Gion