Heian-Jingu

When we arrived in Kyoto, this was one of the first sights we saw while walking to our hotel in southeast Kyoto.

This is the massive torii (Shinto shrine entrance gate) leading to Heian-Jingu. Although I'm not exactly sure how tall it is, let's suffice it to say that it's as tall as a building and has two lanes of traffic that pass through it. Very impressive to a newcomer to Kyoto.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heian_Jingū





Reena in front of all the white fortunes tied on faux branches to bring good luck.

The shrine complex itself is massive too. It was built in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto.

In November they celebrate "shichi-go-san", which literally means "seven-five-three". Girls that are three or seven, and five year old boys go to the shrines for a blessing. In bygone days, due to high infant mortality rates, it was a truly a miracle for kids to reach the tender ages of seven, five and three. These little ones are dressed in their finest silk kimono and look stunning. This little gentleman was so delighted to be going to the shrine.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shichi-Go-San

Reena in front of one of the smaller shrines. I'm not sure you can tell from the pictures, but the main colors are white and a vibrant burnt orange...spectacular!