Heian Jingu – Kyoto
The largest shrine in the otherwise very buddhist city of Tokyo is the massive Heian Jingu. It was supposed to have been even bigger, but due to land and money shortages when it was built in 1895 they had to settle on a small size. Built in a slightly unusual style, it was intended as a copy of the old imperial palace as it would have looked during the Heian period, but it is now used as a shrine dedicated to the souls of two emperors. The massive torii, the distinctive gate set well to the front of the shrine itself is one of the largest in the country although made in concrete. Heian Jingu is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kyoto and is also famous for its massive gardens. Entrance is free to the shrine grounds itself, but the garden is about 600 yen to enter I think. Although shrines might not be on the top of the list of things to see when in Kyoto, it is worth a visit if you have the time!
I love Heian Jingu. They had even pink omikuji in spring for cherry blossom season! ^-^
One thing I was wondering about, why did you put it under “Hyogo Prefecture”?
Haha… well spotted! When I first came to Japan I spent some time in Hyogo prefecture and every night I’d go into Kyoto to meet friends, so I always associated Kyoto with Hyogo. My mistake and my bad habit! (^-^;)