Yasaka Shrine: Kyoto’s Iconic Shrine and the Stage of the Gion Festival The symbol of Gion, Kyoto, Yasaka Shrine is a must-visit destination. With a history spanning over 1,350 years, it boasts the second highest number of visitors among Kyoto’s many shrines (following only Fushimi Inari Taisha). The main hall is designated as a National Treasure of Japan, making this shrine a place where Japanese history and spirituality are condensed. Yasaka Shrine is also famous for hosting the “Gion Festival,” one of Japan’s three major festivals with a history of over 1,150 years. It is a festival known by everyone in Japan, attracting over one million participants annually and garnering attention from around the world. In this guide, we will introduce the deep history of Yasaka Shrine, the roots of the Gion Festival, and the must-see highlights. The Origin of Yasaka Shrine: Fighting “Epidemics” There are 2 theories regarding the founding of Yasaka Shrine. Some say it began when envoys from abroad enshrined a deity here, while others say a monk established a hall. Regardless of the origin, it remains an ancient shrine with over 1,350 years of history. The biggest trigger that developed Yasaka Shrine into an indispensable presence for the people of Kyoto was an “Epidemic (Pandemic).” According to records, a massive plague spread across Japan around the year 877, claiming many lives. People at the time feared the epidemic was the “curse of powerful vengeful spirits.” Prayers were offered in various places with no effect. However,it was determined that offering prayers at this location in Yasaka was the best course of action. When prayers were offered here, it is said that the epidemic miraculously subsided. Since then, Yasaka Shrine has gathered deep faith as a sacred place for “Warding off Evil” and “Ending Epidemics.” Benefits and Deities of Yasaka Shrine The main deity of this shrine, who possesses the power to quell epidemics, is “Susanoo-no-Mikoto.” He is one of the most famous and powerful Gods in Japanese mythology. In mythology, he defeated the “Yamata no Orochi,” a giant monster with eight heads, and saved the beautiful princess “Kushinada-hime,” who was about to be sacrificed, eventually making her his wife. From this mythology, Yasaka Shrine is believed to offer two powerful benefits: Warding off Evil: The power used to defeat the Yamata no Orochi drives away all disasters and diseases. Matchmaking: Bringing good matches, just as he overcame difficulties to be united with the princess. Syncretism and the Transition of “Gion-sha” Essential to discussing the history of Yasaka Shrine is the history of “Syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism.” Syncretism is a concept unique to Japan where the indigenous Shinto religion and Buddhism, introduced from the continent, were harmonized and worshiped together. Formerly, yasaka shrine was called “Gion-sha.” For a long time, the Japanese god Susanoo was identified with the Buddhist guardian deity “Gozu Tenno,” and the shrine was worshipped as a fusion of a shrine and a temple. The name “Gion” itself comes from the Buddhist holy place, “Gion Shoja” (Jetavana). However, the situation changed completely with the “Order to Separate Shinto and Buddhism” following in 1868. Government policy separated Buddhist elements, and it was renamed to the current “Yasaka Shrine.” Nevertheless, the fact that locals still affectionately call it “Gion-san” is a remnant of this history of syncretism that lasted for over 1,000 years. The World-Famous “Gion Festival” We previously introduced the “prayers at Yasaka Shrine that quelled the epidemic.” The ritual that has continued unbroken to the present day is the “Gion Festival,” which has a history of over 1,150 years. While known as a dazzling festival, its origin lies in the erection of 66 halberds in the year 869 to pray for the end of a plague. The festival’s highlight, the magnificent “Yamahoko Junko” (Float Procession), is not merely a parade. It is a sacred ritual performed to gather and purify the evil spirits and plague gods in the city. Yasaka Shrine has been a place that has fought against infectious diseases and disasters for over 1,000 years, continuing to pray for the lives and peaceful living of the people. Conclusion Yasaka Shrine has been worshipped since ancient times as a shrine to ward off epidemics. The “Gion Festival,” continuing for over 1,000 years, has been protected by the deeply religious townspeople, continuing to wish for the peace of the people while overcoming numerous hardships. When you join your hands in prayer at the National Treasure Main Hall, you are touching the depth of prayers offered by the people of Kyoto for 1,350 years. Here are the specific highlights to enjoy within the shrine grounds. 5 Highlights of the Shrine Grounds ① National Treasure Main Hall and the Legend of the “Dragon Hole” The massive Main Hall is designated as a National Treasure and features a unique architectural style called “Gion-zukuri,” where the main hall and worship hall are covered by a single large roof. Actually, it is believed that there is a bottomless deep pond under this Main Hall, and a “Dragon Hole” where the earth’s energy (Qi) gushes out. It is a powerful spiritual spot where the “Blue Dragon” that protects Kyoto is said to dwell. ② Beauty Power Spot “Utsukushi Gozensha” and Beauty Water In the “Utsukushi Gozensha” sub-shrine within the grounds, the three Munakata goddesses who preside over beauty are enshrined. The sacred water gushing from the front of the shrine is called “Beauty Water.” It is said that “applying 2 or 3 drops to your skin will make not only your skin but also your heart beautiful,” making it a popular spot visited by Maiko and Geisha. ③ The Seven Wonders of Gion’s Symbol, the “West Gate” The large gate visible from Shijo Street is the “West Gate (Nishi-romon).” Many people take photos here, but the main gate is actually the “South Gate.” The West Gate has legends of Seven Wonders, such as “rain never leaves drip marks” and “spiders do not spin webs,” and it is believed that sacred power is at work here. ④ Street Food Stalls (Yatai) Yasaka Shrine features food stalls lined up within the grounds. You can enjoy not only standard Takoyaki and baby castella cakes but also Japanese local flavors like Wagyu Beef skewers and dumplings. Tasting Japanese street food along with the shrine visit is a unique experience at Yasaka Shrine. ⑤ Yasaka shrine at night Yasaka Shrine is open for worship 24 hours a day. Especially at night, the countless lanterns hung at the Dance Hall (Maiden) are lit up, creating a fantastical atmosphere. You can feel the quiet and mysterious Kyoto night, different from the hustle and bustle of the day. Access and Basic Information Address: 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto Access: Approx. 5 min walk from Keihan Railway “Gion-Shijo Station” Approx. 8 min walk from Hankyu Railway “Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station” Right next to City Bus “Gion” stop Recommended Route: Hours: Open 24 hours (Office/Counter is open from approx. 9:00 to 17:00) Admission: Free