Heian Shrine in Kyoto is a premier cherry blossom viewing destination, renowned for its striking weeping cherry trees (shidarezakura). The shrine’s grand vermilion architecture provides a stunning contrast to the delicate pink hues of the blossoms. With cherry trees that bloom slightly later than other varieties, Heian Shrine offers an extended sakura season for visitors. Its serene gardens, cultural events, and night illuminations create an unforgettable hanami experience.

Why Heian Shrine is Worth Visiting

• Weeping Cherry Trees (Shidarezakura) – Half of the 300 cherry trees at Heian Shrine belong to this breathtaking variety, known for their cascading pink petals.
• Extended Sakura Season – The trees bloom later than other cherry varieties, providing an opportunity to enjoy hanami even after peak sakura season.
• Scenic Garden Landscapes – The shrine’s traditional Japanese garden offers tranquil walking paths and picturesque views, including cherry blossoms reflected in serene ponds.
• Cultural Events and Light-Up -The Cherry Blossom Festival and evening light-up events enhance the experience, featuring tea ceremonies, music performances, and a mesmerizing illuminated display.

Heian Shrine Cherry Blossoms

Heian Shrine is home to around 300 cherry trees, with a significant number being shidarezakura, whose elegant, drooping branches create a delicate pink canopy. Alongside these, Somei Yoshino and yamazakura trees add to the floral spectacle. The shrine’s massive torii gate, vibrant architecture, and serene gardens make for exceptional cherry blossom viewing. The best spots include the shrine’s Japanese garden, where reflections of the blossoms in the ponds create a stunning visual, and the approach to the shrine, where the contrast between the sakura and the shrine’s architecture is breathtaking. The cherry blossom season at Heian Shrine usually peaks from late March to mid-April, depending on weather conditions.

Cherry Blossom Festival and Light-Up Events

Heian Shrine Sakura Otoyo Concert 2025

Formerly known as the “Benishidare Concert,” this event has been rebranded as the “Heian Shrine Sakura Otoyo” since 2023. In 2025, it will be held from April 2nd to April 6th, featuring nightly performances by renowned artists amidst the illuminated weeping cherry blossoms. The concerts take place in the East Shin’en Garden, with two performances each evening: the first from 6:40 PM to 7:10 PM, and the second from 7:55 PM to 8:25 PM. Please note that there are no designated seating areas; attendees can enjoy the music while strolling through the garden or pausing by the Seiho Pond.

Garden Light-Up

During the event period, from 6:15 PM to 9:00 PM, the South and East Shin’en Gardens, along with structures like the Otenmon Gate and Daigokuden Hall, are illuminated, creating a magical ambiance among the cherry blossoms. The final admission is at 8:30 PM, and the event proceeds regardless of weather conditions.

Facilities & Amenities

• Garden Admission: ¥600 (additional fees for special concerts).
• Restrooms and seating areas: Available on-site for visitor convenience.
• Festival Food Stalls: Temporary stalls selling snacks and drinks during events.

Dining Options

During festival periods, food stalls (yatai) serve traditional Japanese snacks and beverages under the blossoms. For a more substantial meal, visitors can explore nearby dining options around Okazaki Park, which hosts a variety of cafes and restaurants offering Kyoto cuisine.

Travel Tips

• Visit early mornings or weekdays to avoid crowds.
• Check bloom forecasts to plan your visit between late March and mid-April.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the gardens.

How to Get to Heian Shrine

From Kyoto Station, take city bus routes 5, 100, or 110 to Okazaki Park/Art Museum/Heian Jingu Shrine stop (about 30 minutes). From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to the shrine.

Nearby Attractions

• Okazaki Park – A cultural hub featuring museums and additional cherry blossoms.
• Nanzen-ji Temple – A historic temple with a beautiful stone aqueduct and seasonal foliage.
• Philosopher’s Path – A scenic canal-side walkway lined with cherry blossoms.

Nearby Cherry Blossom Spots

• Maruyama Park – Famous for its iconic weeping cherry tree, beautifully illuminated at night.
• Kiyomizudera Temple – Offers panoramic views of cherry blossoms against Kyoto’s skyline.
• Hirano Shrine – A historic site famous for its evening cherry blossom illuminations and a variety of sakura species in a peaceful setting.