Sakura (Hirano Shrine in Kyoto)

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.

the entrance of Hirano Shrine
the entrance of Hirano Shrin

 

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.

food stalls and lots of people under cherry trees
food stalls and lots of people under cherry 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.

cherry blossoms in full bloom and places to eat and drink
cherry blossoms in full bloom and places to eat and drink

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?

 

tōrō lanterns in the left side and chōchin lanterns in the middle
tōrō lanterns in the left side and chōchin lanterns in the middle

 

People were enjoying many kinds of cherry blossoms illuminated in the dark.

 

illuminated cherry blossoms in full bloom
illuminated cherry blossoms in full bloom

 

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!

a ceiling of cherry blossoms
a ceiling of cherry blossoms

[Hirano Shrine]
Address: 1 Hirano Miyamoto-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto
Access: 3 minute walk from the bus stop “Kinugasako-mae”