Yasaka Shrine Kyoto: 2025 Ultimate Guide to Gion’s Sacred Heart (Festivals & Tips)

Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, is revered as one of the most notable shrines in Kyoto. Kyoto Yasaka Shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto (storm god) and Yahashira-no-Mikogami. Since ancient times, the shrine has been referred to as Gion-sha, and locals also name it Gion-san.

During the epidemic period of Kyoto in 869, numerous people came to pray for the Yasaka deities to ward off epidemics and plagues. Therefore, the Gion Matsuri Festival, one of the three most famous festivals in Japan, is said to originate from a prayer to end epidemics.

Plan your Yasaka Shrine tour now and visit this revered Kyoto shrine to earn more good fortune. This post can help you better explore this key shrine in the natural landscape and cultural rituals!

Origins & History of Yasaka Shrine

When it comes to the history of Yasaka Shrine, it dates back more than 1,300 years. Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto was known as the birthplace of the Gion Kanshinin. At that time, the pestilence hit the land of Kyoto, and locals believed that this plague originated from evil spirits and deities. Then, many people tended to pray for the Yasaka deities to end this disaster.

After that, it was revered as a deity for protecting people against bad luck and illness. Besides, the Gion Festival has become one of the major festivals in Japan since then. During the period from 1871 to 1946, Kyoto Yasaka Shrine was officially listed as the first-ranked shrine in Japan that the government supports.

Highlights of Yasaka Shrine Kyoto

West Gate (Nishiromon)

Regarded as a significant cultural property and national treasure in Japan, the Nishiromon belongs to the oldest structure at Yasaka Jinja Shrine. Situated at the eastern end of Shijo Street, the West Gate is the main avenue in Kyoto. Also viewed as a landmark of the shrine, it features its vermilion color and exquisite details.

Main Hall (Honden)

Renowned as Honden, the Main Hall adopted the Heian-era "Gion-zukuri" style and cypress bark roof, which shares the same style as the worship hall. And in front of the main hall stands a dance stage with hundreds of lanterns. As evening comes, you can appreciate the array of lanterns that light the dark night.

Dance Hall (Buden)

To be specific, the Dance Hall is more like a dance stage in front of the main hall, hung with a lot of lanterns. Also known as the Buden Hall, it is constantly used as an arena for holding a variety of ceremonies. As night falls, these lanterns will create a dreamy vibe.

Utsukushigozen Shrine (Beauty Shrine)

Utsukushigozen Shrine belongs to the sub-shrine of Yasaka Shrine, which is also named the “Beauty Shrine” and is especially popular among young women. There is a spring in front of the shrine. It is said that once you get a few drops of “beauty water” on your skin, you will gain purification both physically and mentally.

Okuninushi Shrine 

Okuninushi Shrine is also a sub-shrine inside the Yasaka Shrine, which is dedicated to Okuninushi, the deity of good fortune and matchmaking. Numerous people come to pray for a relationship. In front of the shrine, you will find an adorable hare and an Okuninushi statue.

Hamono Shrine 

Hamono refers to the utensils, and Kyoto is the origin of utensils, where most craftsmen come from. It is specifically dedicated to the deity of knives and ancestors who have made a great contribution and achievement to this industry.

Top Experiences & Hidden Gems

Experience the Gion Matsuri Festival

The Gion Matsuri Festival is one of Japan’s most iconic festivals. And Kyoto Yasaka Shrine is recognized as the origin of the Gion Festival, which will host month-long July celebrations. Activities, like Mikoshi parades and traditional performances, can make you immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.

Join the New Year Festival

Taking a leisurely stroll in Yasaka Shrine like a local and feeling its lively vibe will be one of the most enjoyable things to do in your Kyoto trip. Various events will be held during the New Year period, and there are all kinds of yummy street food near Yasaka Shrine, including chicken katsu, chicken skewers, and octopus balls. Although there will be a multitude of people, it is still a paradise for foodies.

Wear a Japanese Kimono

The ultimate way to explore Kyoto is to dress in a Japanese Kimono and roam the streets of Yasaka Shrine. The spectacular and traditional architecture provides the best backdrop for your record.

Must-Do Rituals

Enjoying yourself in some rituals and events held in Yasaka Shrine can help you get closer to its local culture. Follow the correct temizuya procedure with a visual guide to gain water purification, a unique heart-shaped ema for love prayers to make their ema wishes, and collect goshuin stamps as souvenirs of your visit to Kyoto. All these rituals are worth your experience and record.

Exploring the Gion District: Culture & Cuisine

Gion’s Geisha Culture

Gion belongs to the most renowned geisha district in Kyoto and is the best place to discover geisha culture. And the maiko performances can also present the authentic tradition for you. You can experience the rich heritage through traditional tea houses and machiya townhouses.

Local Flavors near Yasaka Shrine

Do not have to worry about meals during your Yasaka Shrine tour. In addition to typical Kaiseki dining and matcha treats, various kinds of snacks and street food near Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka ensure you get the most authentic Kyoto flavors.

Pro Tips for Visiting Yasaka Shrine

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Yasaka-jinja Shrine is July, when the Gion Matsuri takes place. Gion Matsuri, also known as Gion Festival, is one of the most important festivals in the Yasaka Shrine. To prevent epidemic diseases, a variety of events and rituals will be held during this period.

Besides, when spring nears, cherry blossoms turn the Yasaka Shrine into an attractive hanami spot in Kyoto. March and April are the best months to take a stroll and experience the thriving spring and dive into the pink sea of sakura. Autumn foliage comes with the vibrant autumn season, which is the best season to embark on an autumn tour in Kyoto. The gradient of colorful leaves makes the shrine very alive.

How to Get to Yasaka Shrine

By Subway

The Keihan Oto Line to Gion-Shijo Station (5-minute walk)
The Hankyu Kyoto Line to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station (8-minute walk)

By Bus

The Kyoto City Bus Route 206 to Gion Bus Stop

By Car

A 15-minute ride from JR Kyoto Station to Yasaka Shrine

Nearby Attractions

Japan Kanji Museum & Library

Japan Kanji Museum & Library just sits near the Yasaka Shrine, which is nestled in the building, formerly used as an old school. As the first museum exhibiting items all about kanji (Chinese characters), here, you can learn about the history of Chinese characters and how they were introduced to Japan and became a part of Japanese culture.

Maruyama Park

Right next to the Yasaka Shrine, you will find the Maruyama Park. As Kyoto enters March, you can also join the lantern festival and enjoy the romantic illumination at night. As the top hanami spot in Kyoto, Maruyama Park will be thronged with people in early April. Cherry blossoms in Maruyama Park are in full bloom during that period and create a stunning scenery for every tourist. Appreciating the picturesque pink sea of cherry blossoms can be one of the best things to do in Kyoto.

Hanamikoji Street

Being one of the must-visit attractions in Kyoto, Hanamikoji Street is located in the Gion district as well, lined with various traditional tea houses, restaurants, and cafes. The quaint style brings you a taste of the past life in Kyoto and its old charm. Taking a romantic night walk along the classic road illuminated by lanterns and delving into the magical scenes can be one of the most cozy things during your time in Kyoto.

Kodaiji Temple

Kodaiji Temple is an outstanding Zen Buddhist temple. With some lavish architectural designs, some sections of the temple were designated as a National Historic Site. And some of its structures are viewed as significant cultural properties in Japan. The Kodaiji Temple consists of different gardens with various distinctive styles, and you can immerse yourself in diverse architectural and natural beauty in different sections.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

With a history of more than 2,000 years, Kiyomizu Temple is one of the World Heritage Sites in Kyoto and the most notable Buddhist temple in Japan. It features the wooden stage and its natural beauty of cherry blossoms and maple leaves. Standing on the stage, you will gain a sweeping Kyoto cityscape.

Plan Your Kyoto Itinerary

There are a lot of fascinating attractions in Kyoto. Here we provide you with some popular Kyoto itineraries so that you can choose some ideal tour destinations based on your preference and schedule.

One-Day Kyoto Trip

Option 1: Nishiki Market → Gion → Yasaka Shrine → Maruyama Park → Heian Shrine

Option 2: Kiyomizu-dera → Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka slopes → Yasaka Koshin-do Temple → Yasaka Shrine → Gion → Kawaramachi Street

Option 3: Nishiki Market → Hanamikoji Street → Ishibe Koji Alley → Kodaiji Temple → Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka slopes → Kiyomizu-dera → Yasaka Shrine → Shinkyogoku Shopping Street

Option 4: Yasaka Shrine → Fushimi Inari Taisha → Uji

Festival + Culture Kyoto Day Tour

Morning: experience shrine rituals and delve into Kyoto's local culture

Afternoon: participate in Gion Corner workshops and get your hands on this craftsmanship

Evening: appreciate the festival float tour and feel the atmosphere at Yasaka Shrine at night

FAQs about Yasaka Shrine Kyoto

1. Is Yasaka Shrine free?

Yes. Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto has free admission.

2. How long to spend at Yasaka Shrine?

30 minutes to 2 hours are recommended. A 30-minute visit is for a quick visit, and 1 or 1.5 hours is suitable for a comprehensive visit, including surrounding attractions.

3. Can I attend the Gion Festival for free?

Yes, and you can also attend street events for free.

4. Best time to avoid crowds?

Visiting Yasaka Shrine at 7:00-8:00 am or at night is the best time to beat crowds.

Plan Your Kyoto Trip with Hi Five Trip

And if you prefer a custom Kyoto travel itinerary, our experienced travel consultants can help you design a tailor-made route according to your specific needs.