Heian Shrine

Pretty temple with different types of stunning traditional gardens and serene scenery. A refreshing and calming escape amidst the bustling tourist areas! Although you need to pay to access the gardens (temple access is free), I highly recommend visiting. Definitely worth the price. I was there from 2 to 4:30 PM, and the gardens were quiet with very few visitors.

Wonderful landscaped garden and pond. I happened to be here during Christmas, they have beautiful illumination at night for winter and it is absolutely breathtaking with the temple music, vapor effects and animated light shows. It is quite magical during the day and transforms into a fairy tale fantasy paradise at night during the illumination event.

This is my second visit, and I was so glad that I came back to see the garden with the stepping stones that were arranged like a dragon. The leaves were starting to change colors. Plus I came after 4 pm around sunset so the garden was quiet. The overall feel was peaceful and relaxing. It served as a much needed break from touring the hectic city all day.

The entrance to the temple area is free but there is a 600 yen to see the garden and ponds. Came here during some special events; there were horses, old cars, and tons of people dressed up in old fashioned Japanese clothing and solders. Part of the temple was closed to avoid overcrowded. Garden seems to be in another world, not affected by the busy festival outside. The ponds are definitely beautiful. Lots of fish was and lotus flower. The tiny stream has tiny clams. I saw a kingfisher but it was too quick for me to take photos. There are long hallways and old buildings that they also reserved for weddings.

Heian Shrine was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto's founding. It honors the imperial family and celebrates the Heian period (794-1185), a golden age of arts and culture in Japan. The shrine features a stunning combination of traditional Japanese architectural styles, including elements inspired by the Byōdō-in Temple, particularly its vibrant colors and intricate landscaped gardens. The Heian Shrine boasts breathtaking gardens that change with the seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms enchant visitors, while autumn unveils a stunning display of colorful maple leaves, making it a popular spot for seasonal viewing. This shrine is famous for its impressive, vermilion torii gate, which stands at about 24 meters tall, one of the largest in Japan. It is an iconic symbol of the shrine, attracting many photographers and visitors. Heian Shrine hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including traditional Japanese festivals, such as the Jidai Matsuri in October. This festival features a stunning procession representing various periods of Kyoto's history. Visiting Heian Shrine is not just about witnessing the beauty of its architecture and gardens; it's also an opportunity to immerse oneself in Japan's rich cultural history.