I went to Hirano Shrine, one of the most famous spots for cherry blossom viewing in Kyoto. I recommend to go there in the evening because illuminated cherry blossoms are so beautiful. Of course it’s free.
When I entered the shrine, I found it was more crowded than I expected. There were food stalls, and many people were enjoying eating and drinking under the trees.
There are more than 400 cherry trees in Hirano Shrine. I was able to see many cherry blossoms in full bloom. Actually, there are various kinds of cherry trees in the shrine, and each one has its own best time. Usually, you can see beautiful cherry blossoms in early April.
The emblem of Hirano Shrine is a cherry blossom, which means the shrine is famous for its cherry blossoms. Can you see the emblems on red standing lanterns called tōrō, and hanging lanterns called chōchin?
People were enjoying many kinds of cherry blossoms illuminated in the dark.
The only thing you need to be careful for is drunk people. Though you can see breathtakingly beautiful ceilings of cherry blossoms, perhaps you also find breathtakingly foolish people under it!
[Hirano Shrine]
Address: 1 Hirano Miyamoto-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto
Access: 3 minute walk from the bus stop “Kinugasako-mae”
