Heian-jingu Shrine is a relatively recent addition to Kyoto's collection of sacred places, but is still a very impressive shrine which features elegant, richly-colored buildings surrounded by large gardens in the four cardinal directions.

 

Built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the founding of Heian Kyo (Kyoto), and dedicated to the Emperors Kammu and Komei, the first and last Emperors to rule Kyoto, the buildings are a partial replica of the Imperial Palace of the Heian Period (794-1185). The vermillion-lacquered Otenmon Gate and Daigoku-den (main hall) are especially beautiful. The gardens are representative of Meiji Period garden design, and have a rich variety of flowers that change with the four seasons.