Yasaka Shrine
八坂神社
The organizing shrine of the Gion Festival. Its vermilion west gate at the end of Shijō-dōri and the dance hall hung with lanterns are the symbols of Gion's night scenery.
Yasaka Shrine is affectionately called 'Gion-san' by Kyoto locals. It is the head shrine of about 2,300 Yasaka shrines across Japan, and its main hall is a National Treasure. The vermilion west gate at the east end of Shijō-dōri and the dance hall hung with lanterns are especially beautiful at night. The Gion Festival in July is one of Japan's three great festivals. The shrine is open all day and free to enter. Its east side connects to Maruyama Park, where weeping cherry trees make it a famous spot for night cherry blossom viewing in spring. It is about a 5-minute walk from Keihan Gion-Shijō Station and can be combined with Hanami-koji, Ninenzaka, and Sannenzaka.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Gion & Hanamikoji Street
- Kodai-ji
- Chion-in
- Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
- Pontocho
- Kiyomizu-dera
- Heian Jingu
- Nishiki Market