Heian Shrine: Kyoto’s Best Weeping Cherry Blossom Spot

Heian Shrine is a Shinto shrine known for its gorgeous weeping cherry trees

Heian Shrine (平安神宮) is a Shinto shrine located in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto. It is listed as an important cultural property of Japan.

The shrine holds one of the biggest torii gate in Japan and the site includes the bright red main hall, pond and Japanese garden. The shrine is popular for wedding ceremony and known for the host of Jidai Matsuri festival every October.

Heian shrine is a very popular cherry blossom viewing spot and large numbers of weeping cherry trees (yaebeni shidare) are planted in the garden of the shrine. As the great collaboration view of flowers and the historical temple can be captured, it is considered as one of the best spots to see weeping cherry trees in Kyoto.

The blooming time of weeping cherry trees is usually later than other cherry trees such as Somei Yoshino so you can still enjoy them if you slightly miss the main viewing season.

Usually at the beginning of April, a night instrumental concert is held at Heian Shrine for a few days. During those days, light up of the weeping cherry blossoms can be seen from 18:15 to 21:00.

Book a tour to Kyoto’s Best Cherry Blossom Spots!!

MAP:

Access: 10 mins walk from Higashiyama station or bus № 5 or 100 from Kyoto station

Hours: 8:30~18:00

Fee: free but 600 yen admission fee is required for the garden

Best time to visit: early to mid April

Official Website: http://www.heianjingu.or.jp/

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"The world is my oyster" A globetrotter 🌎 and hammock lover 🌞 who loves taking adventures to fuel wanderlust. Born and raised in Japan, I have lived and explored countries around the world. As a resident of Japan and based on my travel experience, I'd love to share my knowledge and tips for travelling Japan with my readers. I hope my story will help you plan your trip and have a great time in Japan 🌈