KyotoTravel

Pass through the vermillion-painted gate tower and pay respects at the matchmaking Daikoku shrine to finish

About this spot

Affectionately known as "Gion-san," this is the head shrine of the approximately 2,300 Gion shrines nationwide. The vermillion-painted West Gate Tower towering over Shijo Street is a symbol of Gion, with its elegant vermillion shrine buildings beyond. The grounds house Daikoku-Shinsya, dedicated to Daikokutenshin (the god of matchmaking), making it a popular prayer spot for couples. In front of Bi-Gohsensya, which enshrines the deity of beauty, "beauty water" springs forth—a few drops on your skin are said to beautify both body and spirit. The main hall is a national treasure, notable for its unusual Gion-zukuri style—with the worship hall and main hall covered by a single roof over the sacred object. The Gion Festival, which illuminates Kyoto's streets each July, is this shrine's festival. Paying respects to finish your Higashiyama stroll, then continuing into the Gion district, completes the experience beautifully.

Tips

About 5 minutes walk from Keihan Gion Shijo Station, or about 8 minutes from Hankyu Kawaramachi Station. From Kodai-ji, it's about 10 minutes' walk via Nene's Path and Maruyama Park. The grounds are open to public worship with no admission fee. If you'd like a matchmaking charm, the charm office is open from about 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The West Gate area is busy with foot traffic and photographers; shooting from within the grounds offers a more peaceful composition. After prayer, you can seamlessly continue to Maruyama Park or a stroll through Hanami-koji.