basic information

Yasaka Shrine, also known as Gion Shrine, is famous for its Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's largest festivals. It is located at the eastern end of Shijo-dori and is one of the city's most popular shrines. The many lanterns that decorate the shrine's stage are lit after dark and bear the names of their sponsors, mostly Kyoto businesses.

Located just next to shrine grounds is Maruyama Park, Kyoto's most popular spot for enjoying cherry blossoms in spring.

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how to get there

Yasaka Shrine can be reached by bus from Kyoto Station in about 20 minutes. Take number 100 and 206 and get off at Gion bus stop. The closest train stations are Gion Shijo Station on the Keihan Line and Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line.

Alternatively, the 20+ minute walk from Kiyomizudera through the narrow lanes of the Higashiyama ("Eastern Mountain") district to Yasaka Shrine is highly recommended.

How to get to and around Kyoto

hours and fees

Hours:	Always open
Closed:	No closing days
Admission:	Free

news and reports

	Kyoto Cherry Blossom Report April 15, 2009
	Kyoto Cherry Blossom Report April 12, 2009
	Kyoto Cherry Blossom Report April 7, 2009
	Kyoto Cherry Blossom Report April 4, 2009
	Kyoto Cherry Blossom Report April 1, 2009
	Kyoto Cherry Blossom Report March 30, 2009
	Kyoto Cherry Blossom Report March 25, 2009

travel community

Users who have been to Kyoto: 1603
Users who have been to Yasaka Shrine: 267

16th of 45 most visited sights in Kyoto.
61st of 509 most visited sights nationwide.

Rating by users:		recommended (76/100, 145 votes)
Rating by staff:		interesting
Overall Rating:		interesting

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hotels & ryokan

Backpackers Hostel K's House Kyoto Voted No.1 hostel in Asia by Hostelworld customers. 9 mins walk from JR Kyoto station Bed from 2,500 yen. Ryokan Hirashin 3min walk to Shijo Karasuma Sta. Spacious Japanese-style rooms. 140 years of history. Public baths renovated in 2006. Hotel Sugicho A ryokan in the center of Kyoto town. From 4000yen. 4 train stations are within walking distance. Try the Kyoto Kaiseki. Guest Inn Chita A small traditional inn run by a very kind staff. From 3500yen per guest. 10 min from Kyoto Station. Renewed in 2006. Gion Hatanaka A real Japanese inn in a quiet area of Gion, famous for Geisha. 15min walk to Kiyomizu-dera. 5min to Yasaka-jinja.

tours and packages

Kyoto Tours Various tours and travel packages for Kyoto and surroundings. River Terrace Dining with Kyoto Maiko Gourmet Kyoto cuisine and a rare chance to see maiko perform.

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