Kyoto Trip: Don’t Miss the Beautiful Heian Shrine Garden

Heian Shrine Travel Guide: History, Festivals, and Things to Do in Kyoto

About Heian Shrine

Heian Shrine (平安神宮, Heian Jingu) was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto becoming Japan’s capital. By this time, most of the political power had already shifted to Tokyo, but the completion of Heian Shrine was a symbol of hope and passion for revival among the people of Kyoto. Today, it remains one of Kyoto’s most important Shinto shrines and a popular sightseeing spot.

The shrine is especially famous for its massive vermilion torii gate, spacious grounds, and the beautiful Shin’en Garden (神苑), which features ponds, bridges, and seasonal flowers.

My Visit to Heian Shrine

We hadn’t originally planned to visit, but while travelling from Ginkaku-ji to Kiyomizu-dera, we spontaneously got off the bus after seeing many people stop here. Following the crowd, we found ourselves walking through the large red torii gate into the shrine grounds. This unplanned visit turned out to be one of the highlights of the day.

We strolled through the garden, sat on a bench chatting while listening to birds and flowing streams, and even fed the fish in the lake. Kyoto is full of historic sites, but most of them tend to be crowded. This unexpected visit turned out to be a peaceful and refreshing experience for us.

If you visit Heian Shrine, I highly recommend exploring the garden to the left of the shrine. Although the entrance fee is 600 yen for adults, it is absolutely worth it. 

 

If you donate a small coin, you can experience feeding the fish.

Attractions Around Heian Shrine

The Heian Shrine area (Okazaki District) is surrounded by cultural spots and museums, making it perfect for a half-day trip. Nearby attractions include:

• Hosomi Museum – a collection of Japanese art

• Kyocera Museum of Art – contemporary and traditional art exhibitions

• Kyoto Prefectural Library

• Miyako Messe – craft and event hall

• Kyoto City Zoo – family-friendly spot

Across the shrine is Okazaki Park, a relaxing open space often used for flea markets and seasonal events. On the 10th of each month, you can find a lively antique flea market, and sometimes handmade craft markets are also held.

Best Seasons to Visit

• Spring (Cherry Blossoms) – The shrine grounds and nearby Okazaki Canal become breathtaking with cherry blossoms.

• Summer (Irises) – Shin’en Garden’s iris pond blooms beautifully in early summer.

• Autumn (Fall Foliage) – The vibrant colours of maple trees create a stunning view.

• Winter (Illuminations) – In December, the “Naked’s Garden of Japanese Lights” light-up event transforms the shrine into a magical winter spectacle.

Festivals at Heian Shrine

Heian Shrine hosts one of Kyoto’s three major festivals, the Jidai Festival (時代祭), held every year on October 22nd. This historical parade features participants dressed in costumes from various eras of Kyoto’s past.

Other major Kyoto festivals include:

• Aoi Matsuri (Hollyhock Festival) – May

• Gion Matsuri – July

Visiting Kyoto during these festivals offers a unique cultural experience.

Tips for Visitors

• The shrine grounds are not paved, so after rain, some areas may be muddy—wear comfortable shoes.

• Entry to the shrine itself is free, but there is a small admission fee for Shin’en Garden.

• Photography is allowed in most areas, making it a great spot for travel photos.

How to Get to Heian Shrine

• By Subway: Take the Tozai Line to Higashiyama Station (Exit 1), then walk about 10 minutes.

• By Train: Take the Keihan Oto Line to Jingu-Marutamachi Station, then walk about 16 minutes.

• By Bus: From JR Kyoto Station, take Bus No. 5 to Okazaki Park Museum/Heian Shrine Stop.

Since many buses serve this area, using Google Maps or a Kyoto transport app is the easiest way to navigate.

*This review is written based on my subjective experience. It may differ from yours, and I cannot take any responsibility for its results.