Kyoto Japan | Yasaka Shrine & Maruyama Park Yasaka-Jinja Yasaka ShrineYasaka Shrine, (aka Yasakajinja, Yasaka Jinja, or Gion Shrine) is a Shinto shrine located in Higashiyama-ku, that was originally constructed in 656 AD. Yasaka is one of the is one of Kyoto's most popular shrines, with thousands of locals and families go each weekend for picnics and outings at the adjacent Maruyama Park. The stone torii gates on the south side of the shrine near Shijo-dori street are thought to be some of the largest in all of Japan. The shrine complex consits of several buildings, including the main hall, several out-buildings, and the central stage that is decorated with hundreds of lanterns that were donated by citizens and local business. 
Paper lanterns at the Yasaka shrine's stage. Gion Matsuri FestivalThe shrine is famous for the Gion Matsuri festival which takes place during the entire month of July. The festival originated in 869 AD, after Kyoto suffered a plague, which was blamed on the wrath of a deity named Gozu Tenno. To placate the spirit of Gozu Tenno, the emperor ordered the citizens of Kyoto to pray to Susanoo-no-mikoto, the resident god of Yasaka shrine.  To ward off future plagues, Yasaka's mikoshi, or 'portable shrines' were paraded through the streets of Gion, thus beginning the 'Gion Matsuri Festival.' The Emperor decreed the Gion Matsuri festival to be an annual event in 970 AD. From this history, the Yasaka shrine has come to symbolize the aspirations of good health and prosperity. 
Yasaka Cemetery (left), Kodaiji Cemetery (right) Maruyama ParkMaruyama Koen Park is situated behind the Yasaka Shrine, and has become a favorite spot for 'hanami' cherry-blossom viewing. Maruyama Park is also famous for its shidare-sakura 'weeping' or 'drooping' cherry-blossom trees.  During late March to late April, thousands of Japanese come to Maruyama to picnic under the cherry-blossoms. All along the path from Yasaka shrine to Maruyama are children's entertainment booths, and food vendors selling skewered meats, udon noodles, snacks, and electric-colored candies. 
Shidare-Sakura weeping cherry-blossom tree at Maruyama Park 
Japanese 'style' picnic tables at Maruyama (right) Yasaka shrine marks the beginning of the 'Higashiyama Path' that connects to Ninenzaka and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The Higashiyama Path is a leisurely 2 hour walk that is relatively flat until you approach Kiyomizudera. Satellite Image of Yasaka Shrine |
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