Yasaka Shrine Tours

Yasaka Shrine featuring a temple or place of worship and heritage architecture
Yasaka Shrine featuring a statue or sculpture and religious elements
Yasaka Shrine featuring a temple or place of worship and flowers
Yasaka Shrine showing signage
Yasaka Shrine featuring a city and a temple or place of worship


Observe traditional Shinto architecture, pretty lanterns and sacred rituals at this historic shrine, home of the annual Gion Festival and Kyoto’s favorite cherry blossom park.

Even in a city famous for its magnificent shrines, Yasaka Shrine is a standout destination in Kyoto. Also known as Gion Shrine or Yasaka Jinja, Yasaka Shrine dates back over 1,350 years and is the much-celebrated site of the annual Gion Festival. Visit Yasaka Shrine to appreciate its beautiful architecture, fascinating traditions and to pray for a little good fortune of your own.

Enter the Yasaka Shrine grounds via the main entrance and you’ll see a lavishly decorated dance stage lit with picturesque lanterns. A purification trough is situated to the side of the stage. You can rinse your hands at the trough by filling a ladle with water and pouring a little water on both hands before tipping the ladle forward, so that the remaining water rinses the handle. Spot the wreaths of “omikuji,” fortune-telling paper slips that predict good or bad luck. You might see a “shimenawa,” a straw rope strung with paper zigzags that represents the boundary of the sacred space.

Walk to the main hall to see the offering box. If you’d like to make an offering, throw a coin into the box, followed by giving two deep bows, two handclaps, a further bow and a prayer.

In July, Yasaka Shrine becomes the site of the Gion Matsuri, a spectacular festival that began in A.D. 869. During the month-long festival, many rituals and traditions are upheld in order to pray for the healthy life of the community and to appease vengeful spirits. Hundreds of participants visit the shrine for each event, including a festive float.

Another good time to visit the shrine is during cherry blossom season in spring. The Maruyama Park, situated adjacent to the shrine, is one of the best spots in the city to see the stunning pink-and-white blooms.

Yasaka Shrine is open daily and has an entry free. It is accessible via bus from Kyoto Station within 20 minutes. Gion Shijo Train Station is also nearby. For a scenic walking route, try the 30-minute stroll from Kiyomizudera through the alleys of the Higashiyama District to Yasaka Shrine.

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Things to do near Yasaka Shrine

At Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto, immerse yourself in the beauty of fine arts through traditional Japanese crafts and paintings showcased at local galleries. Additionally, experience a serene tea ceremony, where you can appreciate the art of tea preparation and the tranquility that accompanies this cherished cultural ritual. These activities provide a deeper understanding of Japan's rich heritage while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of the shrine.

Shopping

Nishiki Market, only 1.1km from Yasaka Shrine, offers a vibrant public market atmosphere. Kawaramachi Street, 1.6km away, is perfect for family shopping. Just 644m from the shrine, Pontocho Alley combines entertainment and business vibes for a unique shopping experience.

Recreation

Funaoka Thermal Bath offers a tranquil retreat with soothing body treatments, perfect for relaxation. Nishikyogoku Athletic Stadium provides an energetic atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. For a cultural experience, Kyoto Kaikan Concert Hall presents captivating music concerts, enhancing your visit with vibrant entertainment vibes.

Adventure

Experience thrilling skiing at Biwako Valley Ski Resort, located 25.7km from Yasaka Shrine, where you can enjoy the slopes and stunning winter scenery. For a different adventure, embark on the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Pilgrimage Circuit, a scenic hiking trail 4.8km away, showcasing beautiful outdoor landscapes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Yasaka Shrine at Gion Corner, where you can enjoy cultural performances. For family fun, visit the Kyoto Municipal Science Center for Youth's planetarium, or challenge yourself at the Omiyakotsu Park arcade, perfect for adventure-seeking visitors.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto is surrounded by a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for tourists. Explore nearby temples and shrines, stroll along bustling streets, and immerse yourself in the local family-friendly atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to discover nearby attractions that highlight the beauty of Shinto traditions and the vibrant city life, ensuring a memorable visit to this iconic location.

  • Kiyomizu Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu Temple offers stunning views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace. The temple is renowned for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves. Visitors can explore its historic architecture and serene gardens, making it a perfect spot for cultural immersion.
  • Kyoto University: Known for its prestigious history, Kyoto University features beautiful campus grounds and traditional architecture. Strolling through the campus provides a glimpse into Japanese educational culture and offers tranquil spots ideal for relaxation or reflection.
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates, Fushimi Inari Shrine is a captivating site dedicated to the Shinto god of rice. The trails through the gates lead to the mountain's summit, providing breathtaking views and an unforgettable hiking experience.

Best time to go to Yasaka Shrine

The best time to visit Yasaka Shrine can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Yasaka Shrine falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Yasaka Shrine falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January37.8°F (3.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
June70.5°F (21.4°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
July77.9°F (25.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
October62.2°F (16.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
December42.1°F (5.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Yasaka Shrine

To save money on your visit to Yasaka Shrine, aim to travel during the cheaper months of January, February, or September. Book your hotel about a month in advance for better rates, especially on Tuesdays, which are the cheapest days. Consider using Expedia to find last-minute deals and package options that combine flights and accommodations. Utilize the price filter to discover amazing deals on Kyoto hotels. Also, take advantage of free activities in the area and explore on foot to minimize transport costs while enjoying the local scenery.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Yasaka Shrine are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Yasaka Shrine is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Yasaka Shrine is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Yasaka Shrine is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near Yasaka Shrine with your flights and activities by booking a package on Expedia.

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