Hirano Shrine
Hirano Shrine: read a guide to Hirano Shrine (Hirano Jinja). Read about Hirano Shrine's history, cherry blossoms, and other features of this Kyoto shrine.
Hirano Shrine (Hirano Jinja) 平野神社
Located in northwest Kyoto, Hirano Shrine was established in the year 794 when the capital was transferred to Heian-kyo (the ancient name for Kyoto) from Nagaoka-kyo.
The shrine has long enjoyed a relationship with Japan's Imperial Household and royal family.
The shrine however is more famous today for its lovely cherry trees.
Hirano has held a cherry blossom festival every year since 985. The first of these festivals was held during the reign of Emperor Kazan.
Today it is among the most popular spots in Kyoto for viewing the trees, singing, and drinking. Because of its proximity to Ritsumeikan University, many groups from the college revel under the blossoms.
The actual festival - as opposed to the informal crowds that gather - begins in the morning with a ceremony at the mausoleum of Emperor Kazan. Then, in the afternoon, a procession moves from the shrine through the neighboring area and then back. The festival is held on the second Sunday in April.
Shrine Torii, Hirano Jinja, Kyoto
Entry into the shrine grounds is free. There is a booth that sells o-mamori, the good luck charms all shrines sell. Within the grounds is a majestic four-hundred-year-old camphor tree.
It spreads and arcs over much of the interior grounds.
Hirano Shrine Access - how to get to Hirano Jinja
To get to Hirano Jinja by bus from Kyoto Station, take the #205 or #50 to Kinugasa Komae. From Sanjo Keihan, take #15 and get off at the same stop. From Shijo Omiya (Hankyu Railways), take #55 to the same stop. From Kitaoji Bus Terminal take the #204 bus to Kinugasa Komae.
Hirano Shrine (in Japanese)
Tel: 075 461 4450
Hirano Miyamoto-cho 1, Kita-ku, Kyoto
Hirano Shrine is within easy walking distance to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Waratenjin and Kinkakuji Temple.
Hirano Jinja is an easy five minute bicycle ride from Kitano Tenmangu, turn left from the northern exit of Kitano Tenmangu.
The #204 Bus goes past Hirano Jinja in a loop from Kitaoji Bus Station
