Overview
Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, is a renowned Shinto shrine located in the heart of Kyoto's historic Gion district. It is famous for its beautiful architecture and vibrant festivals.
Yasaka Shrine is one of the most important and popular shrines in Kyoto, known for its role in the Gion Matsuri festival.
Location
Address
625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama, Kyoto
Neighborhood: Gion
Coordinates
35.000000, 135.765300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • cherry blossoms
- • spring festivals
summer
hot and humid
- • Gion Matsuri
- • night festivities
autumn
cool and comfortable
- • autumn colors
- • fall festivals
winter
cold
- • illuminations
- • New Year's rituals
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Dress modestly
- Follow shrine etiquette
- Check festival dates
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low
- • crowded during festivals
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards (major credit cards)
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
modest, respectful attire, comfortable shoes, walking shoes, shorts, tank tops, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • Not typically required, but check for special events
- • official website or local tourism sites
- • varies by event
- • not usually needed for the shrine itself
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Kyoto Travel Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Festival calendar, Audio guide
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Nearby cafes
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Kyoto International Airport (KIX)
Distance: 30 km
Travel Time: 1 hour
From City Center
Distance: 2 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Deep historical roots and vibrant festivals
Historical Significance: Founded in 656 AD, dedicated to the Shinto gods Susanoo and his sister Konohanasakuya-hime
Insider Tips
- Free entry always
- Best photo opportunities at sunrise
- Local street food nearby during festivals
Local Recommendations
- • Try matcha at a nearby tea house
- • Ask for a guide at the shrine office
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main gate (Romon)
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Capture the vermilion gate with the surrounding trees
Result: Stunning traditional architecture
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Kiyomizu-dera
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Temple
Yasaka Pagoda
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Historical Site
Gion District
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Historical District
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit during festivals"
- "Wear comfortable shoes"
- "Arrive early for photos"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Kyoto Gion Historical Walking Tour
Kyoto Rickshaw Tour
Kyoto Early Bird English Tour: Fushimi Inari & Gion(Private opt)
Kyoto One Day Sightseeing Tour from Osaka or Kyoto
Private Guided Historical Sightseeing Tour in Kyoto
Kyoto Private 6 hour Tour: English Speaking Driver Only, No Guide
Kyoto Private Day Tour with English Speaking Driver
Kyoto Hidden Gems Tour with Shrines and Temples
Kyoto Gion Night Guided Walking Tour for 3 Hours
Kyoto: Kamigamo and Shimogamo Shrines Guided Tour 3h
Kyoto Arashiyama Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine and Nara Park Tour
Gion and Fushimi Inari Shrine Kyoto Highlights with Government-Licensed Guide
Kyoto Off The Beaten Path: Hidden Zen Garden & Magical Shrine
Private Matcha Tea Ceremony and Gion Walking Tour in Kyoto
Discover Kyoto by Bike: Authentic Half Day Tour
Kyoto Heritage Run - Venture through historical Kyoto landmarks
Shimogamo Shrine, Sagano Train and Uzumasa Samurai Theme Park
Kyoto Private Tour: One Day Highlights and Cultural Gems
Kyoto Private & Personalized Full-Day Tour with a Local Guide
Kyoto Lazy Bird Walking Tour
World Heritage Shimogamo Shrine Private Tour
Leisurely Kyoto Half Day Walking Tour
Kyoto Private Tour with National Licensed Guide
Kyoto Culinary Tour with a Chef!
Quick Info
Available Tours
137
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
Free (donations welcome)