Heian Shrine Gardens

The 33,000 square meter Heian Jingu Shin’en was created in 1895, commemorating the 1100th anniversary of Kyoto becoming the national capital. Landscape architect Ogawa Jihei played a key role in the garden’s design, which embodies the cultural flourishing and artistic achievement of the Heian period (794-1185).

The Heian Jingu Shin’en is comprised of the South Garden (Minami Shin’en), West Garden (Nishi Shin’en), Middle Garden (Naka Shin’en), and East Garden (Higashi Shin’en), each with its own historical elements. The Soryu-ike pond mirrors the shrine’s vermilion torii gate, while the Taiheikaku is a bridge evoking the style of the Kyoto Imperial Palace.

The South Garden’s “Yae-beni-shidare zakura,” double-flowered weeping cherry trees, were donated by the mayor of Sendai. The West Garden’s features include the White Tiger Pond (Byakko-chi), surrounded by 200 species of irises that bloom in June, and the tea house named “Choshin-tei”. The Middle Garden showcases the Garyuro Bridge, named for its resemblance to a lying dragon, with stone pillars that once belonged to the historic Sanjo and Gojo bridges. The East Garden is home to the Taiheikaku and the Seiho-ike Pond.

As a cultural landmark, the gardens host the Jidai Matsuri, an annual parade that honors Kyoto’s storied past with participants in period attire. Designated as a place of scenic beauty, the gardens offer an immersive experience in classical Japanese garden aesthetics.

The best time to visit is during cherry blossom season for an enchanting display. The architecture of the tea houses enhances the reflective journey through Japan’s history.

The Heian Shrine Gardens are a nexus of natural beauty and a window into Japanese history and culture, providing insight into the past amid a serene setting.