Heian Shrine

The shrine itself is beautiful, but what really stood out to me was the incredible garden. Even though we visited in the summer and missed the sakura blossoms, the garden was still breathtakingly beautiful. There’s something so peaceful and special about Japanese gardens, and this one did not disappoint. We had a lovely time feeding the fish and even spotted a heron—it was such a cute and serene moment. Highly recommend visiting the garden if you’re in the area!

The most underrated place(even considered this is a quite popular place) it is, and you must visit here rather than any other spots. The golden spot is hidden behind the palace. I higly recommend visiting here early in the morning, when there are fewer people.

One of several "newer" shrines, it is nonetheless one of the more modern, largest and grander ones too. Less frequented by tourists, Heian is much quieter and enjoyable, especially the gardens around it, among local favorites for events and weddings. We strolled around its grounds, arranged according to flowering seasons, were impressed by the definitively Japanese courtyard design. The giant torri leading to the complex right on the main road where traffic goes under it, is so massive that itself is a sight can be seen miles away from Higashiyama hills.

It's really big and not that crowded, don't understand why many people like a swarm of bees heading to Kiyomizu temple and Arashiyama, there're still other beautiful places in Kyoto.

April 14 and a bunch of cherry blossoms were on the trees still, not all of them though. Nearby there's a walkway along the water, and there were many bright cherry blossoms there today. I did the garden at the shrine here, and it was very nice with many cherry blossoms also, but ¥600 entry for adults. Special goshuin paper for cherry blossom season ended today, but the normal one they draw in your book is ¥500 at the booth to the left right when you enter. Couldn't miss it cuz there was a line.