平安神宮 – Heian Jingu

It’s been years since I was last at Heian Jingu, so I was once again struck by its simple and clean but majestic air.

In comparison to other sights in Kyoto, Heian Jingu has a rather short history.  It was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the old Imperial capital’s foundation, which was originally named Heian instead of Kyoto (Heian-kyo, to be exact, which literally means the “City of Peace and Tranquility”).  The shrine is dedicated to the spirits of both the first and last emperors to reign from the city, namely Emperor Kammu (737-806) and Emperor Komei (1831-1867).  The shrine’s main buildings are a partial replica of the original Imperial Palace from the Heian Period, built on a somewhat smaller scale.  The shrine grounds are very spacious, with a wide open court at the center.  The white gravel really stands out alongside the brilliant red of the buildings.

What was most impressive, however, was the stunning garden behind the main buildings.  An admission fee is required, but with its variety of plants, ponds and traditional buildings, it is more than worth the visit on an average day.  But it is especially worth it to go and see its many (weeping cherry trees) in full bloom.   These trees are by far the garden’s most striking feature, and they bloom a few days later than most other trees, which makes the garden a very popular spot in Kyoto for people who miss the peak of the cherry blossom season.

Vital Information:

• Open: Heian Jingu 6:00 to 17:30; Garden 8:30 to 17:00

• No Closing Days

• Heian Jingu Free Admission; Garden 600 yen Admission

• English Friendly

• Take a Kyoto City Bus and get off at Kyoto Kaikan Bijitusu-kan Mae bus stop; OR 10-minute walk from Higashiyama Station on the Tozai subway line.