Heian Shrine is impressively large with lots to explore from beautiful gardens and ponds to stunning seasonal sakura trees and momiji (Japanese maple trees).

Unlike most ancient shrines in Kyoto, Heian Shrine was built relatively recently in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto as the (former) capital city of Japan. The establishment itself is not too far from the Kyoto Imperial Palace.
 

A symbol of Kyoto

Built in 1895, Heian Shrine is dedicated to Emperor Kammu and Emperor Komei— the first and last rulers of Kyoto when it was the capital. Because of its cultural significance, today it is recognized as Beppyo Jinja (the highest rank for shrines in terms of historical and cultural relevance) by the Association of Shinto Shrines. It is also listed as an important cultural property of Japan. A massive torii (gateway) marks the road leading to the shrine. The torii is one of the largest and tallest gates in Japan at 24 meters high. Once on the grounds, the shrine’s main building is a smaller replica — a 5/8ths reproduction — of the original Imperial Palace of the Heian Period (794-1185 C.E.).

The shrine became extremely important to the people of Kyoto because it was a symbol of the city. In 1976, the shrine was damaged in a fire but was rebuilt three years later with funds collected exclusively through donations.
 

Heian Shrine Garden

Gracing the shrine are lush gardens located in the main buildings. While this is the only area with an admission fee, it’s well worth it. The garden is huge (around 33,000 square meters) and a splendor of overwhelming scenery in spring and fall when you can admire plenty of cherry blossoms and changing momiji leaves. Moreover, in June, hundreds of irises and other flowers bloom decorating the many ponds and the artificial lake inside the plot. Heian Shrine also hosts the Jidai Matsuri, a must-see festival dedicated to the history of Kyoto, every year on Oct. 22, the anniversary of the foundation of the old capital. For more details about the shrine, you can check their official website (Japanese).
 

Nearby

Just west of the shrine, past Okazaki Park, you will find the National Museum of Modern Art of Kyoto, the Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art and Miyako Messe. The latter is a large convention center hosting permanent art exhibitions as well as areas dedicated to traditional crafts and architecture.