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Shrines in Kyoto

By Shizuko Mishima, About.com Guide

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There are lots of shrines to visit in Kyoto. Here is a list of famous shrines in Kyoto.
Temples in Kyoto

1. Heian Jingu Shrine

Photo Courtesy of UNESCO Photobank

Heian Jingu is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Kanmu and Emperor Komei. The main gate (Oten-mon) and other buildings are smaller-scale replicas of buildings in the first imperial palace. Four Japanese-style gardens are located around the shrine buildings. It's a great spot for viewing cherry blossoms in spring.

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2. Yasaka Shrine

Photo by Shizuko Mishima

Kyoto Gion Festival is held by Yasaka Shrine in July. This shrine is located in Gion area, and lots of tourists visit there throughout the year.

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3. Fushimi Inari Shrine

Fushimi Inari is the head shrine of Inari shines in Japan. There are thousands of red gates (torii) from devotees are set to the shrine. It's one of the most popular shrines to visit on New Year's in Japan.

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4. Kamigamo Shrine

It's one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto and is inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Aoi Matsuri Festival is held by this shrine and Shimogamo Shrine in every May.

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5. Shimogamo Shrine

There are over 50 structures, which are designated as Important Cultural Properties. It's also inscribed on the UNESCO's World Heritage List. Aoi Festival is known as one of the most popular festivals in Kyoto.

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