Yasaka Shrine boasts a history of 1,350 years and is believed to bring blessings of good health and safety. During the New Year, it attracts an impressive one million visitors, making it a very popular shrine.
The most convenient way to reach Yasaka Shrine from Kyoto Station is by bus, which does not require transfers. The bus takes about 20 minutes from Kyoto Station Bus Terminal to Yasaka Shrine.
STEP
From the D2 bus stop at Kyoto Station’s bus terminal, take the city bus number 206.
STEP
Disembark at Gion bus stop.
It takes approximately 20 minutes to get here from Kyoto Station.
STEP
From the bus stop, walk about 100 meters to the left.
The bus stop is conveniently located near Yasaka Shrine. It can be seen as soon as you disembark at the bus stop.
Highlights of Yasaka Shrine
At the entrance, you’ll find the West Roemon, the oldest building on the grounds, rebuilt in 1497. It’s a beloved symbol of Yasaka Shrine, and the vibrant vermilion gate is a photogenic spot!
As you pass through the gate, you’ll see the temizuya on your left. This is a place for purifying both body and mind.
When I visited, it was beautifully decorated for the New Year, which brought a sense of peace.
If you go further in, you’ll reach the main shrine. It features a large roof that is about 15 meters high and covers an area of 400 tsubo (approximately 1,320 square meters), making it one of the largest shrine buildings in Japan. Underneath the shrine is a pond, where a blue dragon is said to reside according to legend. Interestingly, this pond is connected to both Shinjoen and Toji Temple.
The grounds also house several subsidiary shrines, known as sessha and massha, making it a true power spot where deities gather.
Among them, the most famous is the “Mikomoto Shrine,” known as a power spot for beauty. It is said that visiting here can enhance both physical and spiritual beauty. Many young women, including geisha and maiko from Gion, are known to visit. It is believed that washing your hands and face in the spring water from the pond beneath the main shrine can make your skin and heart beautiful.
Additionally, there is a statue of Ebisu, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, known for prosperity. Many visitors come to pray for business success. It is said that touching this statue after making a wish brings blessings, and I found Ebisu’s cheerful smile to be quite charming.
Suvenior shop nearby Yasaka Shrine
Nearby, there are souvenir shops to explore. About a five-minute walk from the shrine is “Saryo Tsujiri,” which offers a wide variety of matcha-themed menu items.
The first floor is a souvenir shop, while the second floor houses a café where you can enjoy matcha along with delicious sweets.
Matcha powder is particularly popular among foreign tourists and sells out quickly.
In addition to matcha powder, chocolates and fresh chocolates are also well-received.
This is the Google map of Saryo Tsujiri.
Web Site Official web site Opening hours 10:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Regular holiday No regular holidays Phone number +81-75-561-2257
Saryo Tsujiri *Please check the official website for the latest information.Information of Yasaka Shrine
Please check the official website for the latest information. Nearby tourist spots include Yasaka Koshindo Temple, Ninenzaka & Sanneizaka Path, Kenninji Temple, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. If you’re interested, please check out the articles below.
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