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Yoshida Shrine

吉田神社

A hilltop shrine established 859 AD, famous for hosting Kyoto's most spectacular Setsubun Festival (February 2-3) with a massive bonfire ritual. The shrine sits atop Mt. Yoshida offering panoramic views and a unique octagonal main hall. Connected to Kyoto University campus.

Visit: 30-45 minutes
Entrance: Free
Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Setsubun: 24-hour access Feb 2-3)

Highlights & Must-See Features

  • Setsubun Festival - one of Kyoto's biggest events (Feb 2-3)
  • Massive bonfire ceremony burning old amulets
  • Panoramic city views from hilltop
  • Unique octagonal Daigengu shrine hall
  • Beautiful forested approach path
  • Free admission and peaceful atmosphere

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Bus stop Kyodai Seimon-mae (Bus 206 or 17)

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. 1 From Kyoto Station: Bus 206 to Kyodai Seimon-mae (25 min), walk 10 min uphill
  2. 2 From Ginkaku-ji: 15 minute walk south and uphill
  3. 3 From Heian Jingu: 15 minute walk east and uphill
  4. 4 Forested hill path - wear comfortable shoes

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 35.024444
Longitude: 135.787222

💡 Tip: "View Location" shows the temple on the map. "Get Directions" navigates from your current position.

Best Time to Visit

February 2-3 for Setsubun Festival (massive bonfire, 800+ food stalls, hundreds of thousands attend). Otherwise quiet hilltop shrine with beautiful views. Cherry blossoms in early April lovely on the hillside.

Contact & Info

Address

30 Yoshida Kaguraoka-cho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto 606-8311

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