Heian Shrine, Kyoto, Japan 08F5D824 64DA 45D6 9CB0 FA96C7DE513C

The Heian Shrine (Heian Jingu) is a major Shinto shrine in Kyoto, and is popular not only as a tourist spot but also as a religious and historical center. It is notable for its huge torii gates and beautiful gardens. It was given the top rank of Shinto shrines.

In comparison to other historical venues in and around Kyoto, the Heian Shrine is relatively modern. Its story, however, goes back a long way. Emperor Kammu took the throne as the 50th Emperor of Japan in the year 781, and became dissatisfied with the then-capital of Heijo (in present-day Nara). He moved the capital to today's Kyoto, or what was then known as Heian-kyo, and the Heian Imperial Palace Daidairi was constructed. This marked the beginning of the Heian period of Japanese history, which lasted from 794 to 1185.