The Most Beautiful Shinto Shrines in Kyoto
Shinto is Japan’s oldest religion. Shinto means “the way of the gods” and the shrines provide a place of worship as well as homes to the spirits. Kyoto is home to over 400 Shinto shrines, so it can be a daunting task to choose the best shrine to visit on any trip. Here are some beautiful pictures of the best shrines in Kyoto to help make your choice that little bit easier.
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Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine is one of the most beautiful and impressive attractions in all of Kyoto. The city’s most important shrine is also its most popular and attracts visitors by the bus load.
Heian Jingu Shrine
Heian Jingu Shrine is one of the most visually impressive shrines in all of Japan with colourful buildings and beautiful gardens. It is a relatively new shrine having been built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto as capital of Japan.
Yasaka Jinja Shrine
Yasaka Jinja Shrine is a colourful, bustling downtown shrine in the heart of the city, which overlooks the geisha and entertainment district of Gion. It is one of Kyoto’s most important shrines and has a long connection with the Kyoto Geisha community. The shrine is home to the famous Gion Matsuri which takes place every year over the entire month of July.
Shimogamo Jinja Shrine
Shimogamo Jinja Shrine is one of the oldest and most beautiful shrines in Kyoto. Located at the junction of the Takano and Kamo Rivers, the shrine is surrounded by an ancient forest with trees that are up to 600 years old making it an amazing place to take a stroll.
Kifune Jinja Shrine
Kifune Jinja Shrine is located up on a hill that offers a fantastic escape from the heat of summer in the city. Stone steps lined with red lanterns create an attractive and atmospheric setting that is just magical in any season.
Kamigamo Jinja Shrine
Kamigamo Jinja Shrine is another high ranking shrine in Kyoto. It is historically significant as the Tokugawa Shoguns were very devoted to this shrine.
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