An imperial family related shrine, one of the most popular spots in Kyoto for viewing cherry blossoms
Hirano Shrine is located in northwest Kyoto, just a few hundred meters from Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. Built in 794 when the capital moved from Nagaoka-kyo to Heian-kyo, it has long been connected to the imperial and royal families.
Today, Hirano Shrine is best known for its cherry blossoms. Since 985, an annual cherry blossom festival has been held here, believed to have originated during the reign of Emperor Kazan.
The shrine grounds feature around 400 cherry trees spanning approximately 60 varieties. Each spring, visitors flock to enjoy both the daytime blossoms and the magical night-time illuminations during the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Outside the cherry blossom season, the shrine grounds are peaceful, offering visitors a serene space to admire the architecture. Passing through the large torii gate at the entrance, visitors follow an alley lined with elegant red lanterns, leading to the shrine’s Kasuga-zukuri–style buildings, the same architectural style as Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara. The moss-covered thatched roofs add a timeless, picturesque charm to the setting.
Hirano-Jinja Shrine（平野神社）
Address : 1 Hirano Miyamotochō, Kita-ku, Kyōto-shi, Kyōto-fu 603-8322
Access : 5-minute walk from Kitano-tenmangu Shrine
Hours : 6:00 to 17:00
Admission : Free
Events
Cherry Blossom Illumination (MAR)
