Although this shrine is not one of Kyoto's more famous shrines, it is very old and interesting. It existed before Kyoto was built in 794, and Yoshitsune prayed to an Ebisu statue here for the restoration of the House of Genji. The Kyoto end of the Tokaido road began near here, and during the Edo period the god of Awata Shrine was considered the protector of the Eastern side of Kyoto. All that, and it looks stunning in the autumn sunshine.
- 1 min read
Awata Shrine in Autumn
Beautiful autumn colors in Higashiyama

By Cathy Cawood
Community writer

The main hall of the shrine is very pretty

Guarding the entrance to the shrine

Steps lead up the slope

There are many stone lanterns

Dark wood contrasts with the glowing colors of maple leaves

Beautiful horse statue

Looking down on rooftops

You can see the big red torii of Heian Jingu Shrine from here

Large rounded water basin

Glorious colors!

I like this rough style of stone lantern

A glimpse of steps through a small torii

From this angle, the horse seems to be about to leap forward

Looking along the path down to the entrance
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