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  • 5/5 Santosh S. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the best Shrine in the world. Truly perfect combination of historical culture and nature. Must be on every ones travel bucket list. The access to the shrine is very convenient as well.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Andrew A. 2 months ago on Google • 753 reviews New
    Kyoto is blessed with so many shrines that one would take ages to really cover them all. This one in particular, the Yasaka Shrine, is among the many dotting this city. Located towards the end of Hanamikoji Street at the T-junction, you won't miss the big red arch greeting you at the entrance. Inside, there were few street vendors selling food just before you enter the main area where the temple is.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 A. K. 5 months ago on Google • 76 reviews
    Historical site that good you a lively feeling as if you were living at that time. It has many priceless treasures and great scenery. You can walk around at any time as it is open twenty four (24) hours. The place architecture was pretty nice as well. Highly recommended to visit during sunrise or after midnight so you can gaze through the main gate which provides a view between the past and the present/future.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ces Sheng (. 7 months ago on Google • 19 reviews
    1. Nice shrine with chill environment. A worthy place to visit at Kyoto if ur planning is going north area. 2. Metro is nearby and walking to the shrine about 10-15mins. Along the way still have a lot of stunning street views that allow people to enjoy in the moment. 3. Night view of the shrine is absolutely amazing. Got there around 6am and the lanterns just lit up directly in front of me just gave me unforgettable memories. 4. The street opposite the shrine is also magnificent, sunset views really thumbs up.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ing Kien W. 5 months ago on Google • 335 reviews
    One of the famous attractions found in Kyoto City. Many locals and travellers came here to pay for respect. Entrance is free with fantastic view of their temple and shrine. It is located near to the Gion District that has plenty of foods and beverages outlets. Crowded at all times but easy to navigate around.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ribeye 2 months ago on Google • 230 reviews New
    Yasaka Shrine, nestled in the historic heart of Kyoto, is a captivating sight, particularly when night falls. As darkness envelops the city, the shrine comes alive in a breathtaking display, illuminated by an alluring array of beautiful lanterns. These lanterns cast a warm, inviting glow over the shrine grounds, creating a serene and almost mystical atmosphere that attracts both the faithful and the curious. The enchanting light of the lanterns highlights the shrine's architectural details and the natural beauty of its surroundings, offering a spectacle that is both spectacular and intimate. Unlike the bustling daytime hours, the shrine at night is a little less crowded, allowing visitors to enjoy a more peaceful and reflective experience. This serene ambiance, combined with the spiritual significance of the shrine, makes visiting Yasaka Shrine at night a truly unforgettable experience. The gentle illumination, the quiet, and the historical context blend together, offering a unique perspective on one of Kyoto's most revered sites. It's an ideal setting for those seeking a moment of tranquility amidst the beauty of traditional Japanese culture.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Willowspritew W. 4 months ago on Google • 214 reviews
    We went there and it's neighbor park after renting some kimonos for the day and it was perfect. Not too overcrowded like most tourist places in Kyoto and it was quiet enough that we were able to get some pictures without people in the background and we were lucky to go on a day they had food stalls in front of the shrines selling street food and other items. The food area was a bit crowded in finding somewhere to sit and eat but overall the experience was good.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alexander T. 8 months ago on Google
    If you are able to catch Yasaka Shrine at golden hour you will take those memories with you for a lifetime. Even with loud tours and hustling tourists walking through at all times, you can feel the history and spirituality within the grounds of the shrine. An irreplaceable place to stop by on your trip to Kyoto!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Peter S. 10 months ago on Google
    Yasaka is definitely best viewed at night. The lanterns are beautiful and the crowds are not nearly as bad as during the day. It's a quick, free shrine close to tons of restaurants and shopping, so there's not much of a reason not to stroll through.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 M S. 5 months ago on Google
    We went at night to avoid the crowds and this is recommended. You can really appreciate the Yasaka Shrine and embrace the cultural significance of it. There is a lot to explore and it is a short walk from Kiyamachi-Dori so go after dinner and get those steps up!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 randall 1 year ago on Google
    Walked past this shrine on my way to Gion and it was pretty nice. There are many smaller shrines along the side and the whole place is within a park. Saw visitors ringing the bell which is for you to make a wish if I'm not wrong. The gardens outside the main shrine smell really nice too by the way. Think they planted jasmine or something.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Richard G. 2 months ago on Google • 199 reviews New
    A visit-worthy Shrine anyway especially considering it is at the end of the Shijo Dori, which itself is a famous shopping street in Kyoto. I really recommend walking from the Nishiki market here, which only took around 25 minutes. During the night, the street view is very nice and you will wholly enjoy the walk and the street vibe.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Hadi H. 1 month ago on Google • 321 reviews New
    Beautiful and unique shrine in the middle of Kyoto downtown. Located in Gion area and full of character and natural charms. The main hall of the shrine is a lovely sight with the prayer hall in front of it strung with lanterns serving as the stage for many a cultural performance throughout the year. The night version of this shrine is really super cool! Love it!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Johannes E. 3 months ago on Google • 114 reviews New
    We discovered this area during a walk in the evening and found a cherry blossom festival. The evening there was truely amazing. The park and shrine are stunning and the festival added well to it's flair. Having a drink and some snacks under the cherry blossoms was absolutely fantastic.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Benny C. 6 months ago on Google
    This is usually the start of the stroll to Kiyomizu Dera, the starting point marked by a traditional Japanese Shinto Shrine, the path en route is very beautiful and peaceful.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tony del p. 6 months ago on Google
    Beautiful Shrine in Tokyo. The colors are outstanding. Went at night when there were minimal tourists. Located in a main hub of Kyoto. Lots of wonderful restaurants and bars nearby.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Debora H. 9 months ago on Google
    I passed by the temple at night on my way to the hotel, but their lanterns made me stop by and took some photos. It was really beautiful. These photos can't describe the real thing i saw. It was way more fascinating. You have to look at them personally to understand their beauty.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kara H. 7 months ago on Google
    Beautiful shrine open late so you can come here at nighttime to admire the beauty and serenity of the grounds. The entry is free and in the day time there are other temples nearby you can walk to.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Piboon Thongtanyong (. 8 months ago on Google
    Good Temple to Visit After Dark I headed to Yasaka Shrine, my last top pick for a temple experience in Tokyo. A friend had recommended it, saying the temple looked stunning with its beautiful lights after dark, so I decided to explore at dusk. The location was perfect. Not only could you visit Yasaka Shrine, but you could also stroll down the main shopping street before or after your temple visit. The temple itself was on the smaller side, but it had an extension in the back. However, due to the stone street and the scorching Tokyo Summer heat, I preferred to stay away from that area.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 NoahJon M. 10 months ago on Google
    totally fine and relaxing during the day but the move here seems to go at night (it never closes and it’s free). the wires get in the way of photos during day. go to the right (east) and walk to the pond. there’s a tiny land bridge between two ponds that’s cool. the pond had a soft shell turtle in it, a real treat. after, head north about 10 mins for the other gardens/temple.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mohammed A. 1 year ago on Google
    I enjoyed visiting this shrine at night on my first day arriving to Kyoto. Yasaka Shrine is one of the most famous and popular shrines in Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant festivals, and historical significance. The shrine has been an important religious site for over 1350 years, and it is dedicated to the prosperity and good fortune.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pei R. 5 months ago on Google
    Went at night and the shrine was still beautiful and perfect for a nice quaint walk in the chilly weather. It’s a very peaceful place with breathtaking architecture so do check this place out when you’re in Kyoto!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Danny S. 1 year ago on Google
    Kyoto's Ayaka Shrine is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. The shrine is peaceful, serene, and surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Visiting the shrine is a great way to get away from the busy city and immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese setting. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and they're always happy to answer any questions you may have about the shrine and its history. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax and recharge, Ayaka Shrine is an excellent choice. The shrine's beautiful architecture, serene surroundings, and rich history make it a truly special destination.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Martin J. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely forest temple. The temple is at the end of the bamboo forest so we decided to check it out. It was a really good decision. Moss fairytale with lovely shrines woven into it. It looked amazing and felt really peaceful. Will return to it. I liked this part of Kyoto very much.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anemone 2 years ago on Google
    Big place, very good park to strolling, also probably in Spring and Autumn. Want to go here again.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ling 4 months ago on Google • 95 reviews
    There are thousands of shrines in Kyoto and this is one of the more easily accessible ones and it’s free (no entrance fee). If you’re ever in Gion, it’s difficult to miss Yasaka Shrine. There are street food vendors lined up on the entrance path.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 英語チャンネル 2 months ago on Google • 38 reviews New
    Yasaka Shrine, nestled in the historic heart of Kyoto, offers a transcendent experience that bridges the gap between the earthly and the divine. A visit to this venerable site is akin to stepping into a realm where time flows differently, more so under the cloak of night when it transforms into a space of ethereal beauty. The shrine, bathed in the gentle glow of lantern light, presents an ambiance that is both mystical and inviting, providing visitors with a glimpse into a world that feels suspended between the past and the present. As darkness descends upon the city, Yasaka Shrine begins to emanate a quiet serenity that stands in stark contrast to the daytime bustle. The flickering lights cast shadows that dance across the ancient structures, creating a tapestry of light and darkness that captivates the imagination. The sound of footsteps on the stone path, the whisper of the breeze through the trees, and the distant murmur of prayers combine to create a symphony that enhances the sense of entering a sacred space. Exploring Yasaka Shrine at night is an experience that appeals to the soul. The shrine’s grounds, expansive and yet intimate, offer a multitude of pathways that lead to hidden corners and serene alcoves. Each turn reveals a new vista, from the majestic main hall, resplendent in its nighttime attire, to the smaller auxiliary shrines that dot the landscape, each with its own story and spiritual significance. The beauty of Yasaka Shrine at night lies not only in its visual spectacle but also in the profound sense of peace it bestows upon its visitors. It is a place where the hustle of modern life fades away, allowing for moments of reflection and connection with the spiritual lineage of Japan. The shrine serves as a reminder of the enduring presence of the sacred in our lives, offering solace and inspiration to those who seek it. Moreover, the experience of visiting Yasaka Shrine after dark is enhanced by the understanding that you are partaking in a tradition that has been observed for centuries. It is a testament to the shrine’s role as a beacon of spiritual guidance and cultural continuity. The lanterns that light your way are not just illuminating the path but also guiding you through a historical journey that links the present to the echo of centuries. In conclusion, Yasaka Shrine at night is more than just a tourist destination; it is a sanctuary of tranquility and mystique. Its enchanting atmosphere provides a unique opportunity to experience the spiritual heart of Kyoto in a manner that is both profound and personal. For those in search of an experience that combines historical depth with transcendental beauty, a visit to Yasaka Shrine after sunset is an encounter with the sublime, an invitation to explore the sacred spaces that lie just beyond the veil of the everyday world.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Food B. 2 months ago on Google • 216 reviews New
    This is just another shrine similar to all the other shrines dotted all over Kyoto. If you've seen one, you've seen them all. Probably a better time to visit would be at night when the lanterns are all lit up. It gets busy during New Year when locals would go for their traditional rituals and celebrations.

  • 5/5 Angus R. 7 months ago on Google
    A lovely free shrine that is worth going when dark to see the amazing lanterns and lights. Close to other areas so definitely worth a visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 N C. 5 months ago on Google
    Lovely area with multiple shrines. Multiple parks surround the shrine. Restrooms on site. Great area to walk around, many shrines, temples and gardens nearby area
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Austin W. 11 months ago on Google
    That was very lucky to see the temple is in the snowing. It’s cold and wet but the temple vibe is amazing. The historical building is so beautiful and well preserved. The temple garden is close to the fashion district. It’s nice to pray for fortune here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dru L. 6 months ago on Google
    This is the first shrine on a series of visits all the way to the famous Kiyomizu shrine. Good first stop to get yourself climitized with the various temple rituals such as cleansing your hand, getting protection charm, getting fortune telling, and praying. Truly a level 1 temple 😉
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kei C. 5 months ago on Google
    It’s a nice place to visit for some shrine experience. There’s enough space even for a high-traffic location, although we went there during the weekdays. It’s a nice location to take a sit, breather, and people-watching. There’s a couple of snack shops inside the shrine as well as food stalls.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonyi H. 3 months ago on Google • 17 reviews New
    Visited Yasaka Shrine on a Friday evening (~5:45pm) during winter and the crowd was manageable and comfortable to walk with plenty of space around! Some food kiosks were still around, was good to eat some oden in the cold night. Really enjoyed the night scenery with the lights, definitely recommend coming at night for a different experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gerard James R. 5 months ago on Google
    Best Shrine. Till today I’m recommending all my friends to visit, especially visiting at night, since it’s open 24hrs. Just go late into the night, nobody will be there, bring your tripod. Take selfies. Made some amazing friends too.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rayzr 5 months ago on Google
    Came for an impromptu visit. Although it was a cold wet evening the building were lit magnificently. I felt the weight of time and presence whilst taking photos.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Waseem G. 5 months ago on Google
    This shrine is one of the most popular shrines in Kyoto so be prepared to sift through a ton of tourists during the day. At night its very relaxed and the laterns are lit up in the autumn 🍂 Enjoy!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jianhui 5 months ago on Google
    Visited this at night as I had a very short stay at Kyoto. The view is amazing at night with all the lamp lighted up. Took about 15 to 20 mins to explore the place.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Fadhil A. 1 year ago on Google
    Yasaka Shrine is a beautiful and historic shrine located in the heart of Kyoto. The shrine is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic vermilion gate and the main hall with its intricate carvings and decorations. Visitors can also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine's gardens and surrounding forest. The shrine is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it's easy to see why. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or just want to take in the beauty of Kyoto, Yasaka Shrine is definitely worth a visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 SHAN m. 2 years ago on Google
    Gorgeous shrine in Kyoto. Very convenient location on the top of Gion area. Beautiful scenery and experience in the heart of Kyoto. Enjoy and Aloha
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Annie S. 2 years ago on Google
    The shrine is open 24 hours to walk around and take photos of the lit lanterns. It’s a nice shrine for kimono portrait photography - it’s less busy and crowded.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Anthony M. 1 year ago on Google
    A very cool shrine to walk around, very nice relaxing area to walk around with great views of shrine.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jason C. 1 year ago on Google
    This small shrine is the perfect gateway to the Gion district. There are sometimes food vendors selling various treats and at night the lanterns make it a great place to take a stroll. There is no admission fee to this area.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Riz M. 1 year ago on Google
    First shrine to visit in Kyoto so was quite impressive. Big crowd, groups of young people many of whom are couples, were wearing traditional clothing for picture taking even if it was raining and cold. On a day at the end of January there was no real flowers yet but snow flowers were every direction and as beautiful as Sakura blossom
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jessica A. 1 year ago on Google
    A beautiful Shrine with a stunning atmosphere, particularly at dusk. It's quite small and won't take long to look around, but worth it. Street food markets also added to the atmosphere and experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Harsh P. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely gorgeous place! Highly recommended visiting and spend a good few hours enjoying the nature. Should make sure to try out Amazake while you're here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 H L. 1 year ago on Google
    A Must go spot in Kyoto. 冈山公園 next to it is full of cherry trees - a prime spot during cherry blossom season. Then a leisure stroll to 清水寺 passing 1/2/3年坂 and the neinei road。We went there 3 times during our visit - always full of tourists. But it’s a must go. So plan to go at diff times on diff days to get diff feel. Next time I’d leverage my jet-lag from the US n go at the crack of dawn. 清水寺 opens at 6 anyway 🤣
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shahab “Cro” K. 10 months ago on Google
    Just happened upon this beautiful shrine at twilight. The ambiance and lights are enchanting. The bonus is the little park being the temple. Quiet and peaceful. Definitely worth a stroll.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shreyamsa M. 11 months ago on Google
    Impressive during the day, but the number of people around may dampen the atmosphere. Magnificent during the night, with very few people visiting. The lights and lantern give a magical touch. However, all parts of the shrine cannot be explored at night. Worth visiting both times!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mia-Fei L. 7 months ago on Google
    Stunning temple! Would recommend going at sunset and view it during daylight as well as night to see the lanterns shine! Can also get a great view of sunset and the street across.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Maciej P. 9 months ago on Google
    At the end of the busy commercial district and begging of old town in Kyoto. Lots of small shrines and bigger highly decorated but nothing really caught my eyes but a nice to see when you are around.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nassim N. 10 months ago on Google
    A shrine worth visiting. The architecture is amazing, the landscape is beautiful and the whole place is filled with culture and history. It is a place you can walk and feel serene.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Linore L. 9 months ago on Google
    we arrived there seeing kids perform their traditional dance. it was scorching hot but its better weather than the rain.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dony L. 3 months ago on Google • 98 reviews New
    Best place to go at night with all the lantern in every temple. But during winter, street food and shops are close earlier. Make sure you have a full energy or you might be hungry and quite hard to find food there. I'm going at January at around 7pm.

  • 5/5 Dylan S. 4 months ago on Google • 24 reviews
    Very interesting complex. There were shops, temples, trees and park areas, and even trails leading up into the mountain past a cemetery. Not very crowded when I went on a Sunday, but I'm not sure when it's "supposed" to be busy either.

  • 4/5 Shingo S. 2 years ago on Google
    (Trip was made back then on 1 Dec 2019, 2 years before the Covid-19 Pandemic hit) Yasaka Shrine is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, with it’s beautifully elaborate main gate greeting you upon entering, to it’s distinctive central stage that looks even more amazing at night with the gentle glow of the lanterns. Being one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto, they play host to the the Gion Matsuri during the summer festival, which is said to be the most famous festival for the whole country. Though we weren’t able to experience it, we were still able to appreciate the temple’s beauty during our autumn trip to Kansai regions 2 years ago. It’s conveniently located needy to Maruyamacho Park, Chionin Temple and Shorenin Temple which can be covered within the same day since they are in the same area and are worth a visit.

  • 5/5 RTK 2 years ago on Google
    Breathtaking iconic Japanese jinja that contains both beauty and culture. It always impress how Japanese people can remain their culture.

  • 5/5 Ramtin R. 8 months ago on Google
    Great temple, free to visit (one of the rarest temple in Kyoto where they won’t charge you tickets). I recommend to visit it in the night or at the sunset to enjoy the lights.

  • 5/5 Kingston O. 2 years ago on Google
    A beautiful well made temple that's just as beautiful in the dark twilight of the night and break of dawn, as it is during the scorching heat of the day.

  • 4/5 uchy c. 2 years ago on Google
    Location near keihan line gion shijo station walking 3minutes. This place another the Gion Icon in the Kyoto city of tourist spot.

  • 5/5 Zephyriousity P. 4 years ago on Google
    It was beautiful even at night. Or during night. This shrine shines so bright, it seem so magical. It is big and you will enjoy roaming around inside. It was close a night, the souvenir stores to get your charms. However, your prayers can be said quietly. This place should really be on someone's itinerary.

  • 5/5 Poulami d. 1 year ago on Google
    A must visit place in Kyoto. The place is very peaceful. The hike to the top is doable. After overcoming the initial rush of crowd, the rest of the trail is mostly devoid of tourist. Must must visit this if you are in Kyoto.

  • 5/5 Amethyst L. 1 year ago on Google
    Today is Gion Matsuri and we have a special version of Yasaka Jinja. Love the atmosphere here and it always looks so bright with good maintenance.

  • 5/5 Divyank S. 1 year ago on Google
    This shrine has good access from city center. It looks even more beautiful at night!

  • 5/5 Shu Y. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice place to visit. It’s open even at night. Most of the temple close at 4-5pm. This one is 24/7.

  • 5/5 Ayşe S. 6 months ago on Google
    Very beautiful temple just next to the Gion district. The best way to enjoy the area is by walking around. It is also near to Ryozen Kannon where you have the famous concrete statue of the Bodhisattva.

  • 5/5 Yujin C. 10 months ago on Google
    I don’t know how such a beautiful place could be so terrifying at night!! During day or night, Jinja shrine is still utterly gorgeous and both times provide wildly different experiences. While clogged with visitors near the beginning, it quickly empties out the further in you travel which is always nice. The multiple shrines on the way up are beautiful, with plenty of vending machines to use if you get worn out!

  • 5/5 Angsophea E. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful shrine with street food at the entrance. There are charms shop inside with many god shrines you can visit and pray to. They mainly take cash so no need to bring credit cards here. Additionally, the nature and tree around this area is exceptional. There are multiple entrances and exit around with one leading to two other parks or shrine nearby! Inside near the street food have kimino rental as well.


Call +81 75-561-6155 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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