Heian Jingu Shrine was built to celebrate the 1100th anniversary of the establishment of Heian-kyo imperial capital. Therefore, the shrine is a 5:8 scale replica of the building responsible for politics in Heian-kyo. In addition to its historical value, Heian Jingu Shrine is famous for its Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages), where hundreds of people dressed in costumes of different ages (8th to 19th century) march through Kyoto City. The shrine also has a garden that is more than 30,000 square meters wide, where rare Japanese plants and animals can be observed.
Ootorii: This 24m-high huge torii stands on the approach to Heian Jingu Shrine.Souryu Rou (Blue Dragon Tower): This building sits at the east side of the sanctuary. It was named after the blue dragon that is considered to be the guardian god of the east side of Kyoto City.Byakko Rou (White Tiger Tower): This building sits at the west side of the sanctuary. It was named after the white tiger that is considered to be the guardian god of the west side of Kyoto City.Taihei-kaku: There are beautiful Japanese traditional style architectures elsewhere in the sacred garden, including Taiheikaku, which is a two-story wooden bridge.Cherry Blossom Trees: Heian Jingu Shrine is one of the most popular cherry blossom sights in Kyoto, where more than 300 cherry blossom trees of 20 varieties are planted.
