Emperor Ichijo loved Gion Shrine so much, that in the year 991 he added it to the Imperial list. Built with stunning Japanese cypress the main shrine (Honden) was architecturally ahead of its time. These days it is called Yasaka Shrine, and visitors love coming here during the New Year and when the Cherry blossoms open in Springtime.
In Greek Mythology the three Graces were symbolized by Joy, Charm and Beauty, and likewise the ancients said the same about Utsukushi-gozensha shrine next door. It is popular with Geisha and young women, hoping some of its graces would rub off onto them.
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