Heian Jingu Shrine Giant Torii Gate & Shin-en Garden, Sakyo, Kyoto

Live Camera | Heian Jingu Shrine Giant Torii & Daigokuden Hall, Kyoto, Japan. Built in 1895 to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto's founding as Heian-kyo, Heian Jingu impresses with its monumental 24-meter-tall vermilion torii gate straddling Jingu-michi and the magnificent palace-style Daigokuden Hall. Behind the vibrant vermilion structures lies the 33,000-square-meter Shin-en stroll garden, renowned for rare weeping cherry trees bowing over Seiho-ike pond. Food lovers walking through Okazaki Park queue up for thick artisanal noodles at Yamamoto Menzou, fluffy egg drop udon at Okakita, and rich demi-glace omurice at Grill Kodakaraya. ✦ Must-Visit Highlights: ▸ Monumental 24-Meter Vermilion Torii Gate Straddling Jingu-michi: Gaze up at one of Japan's largest sacred gates framing wide city avenues. ▸ Magnificent 33,000-sqm Shin-en Stroll Garden with Weeping Sakura: Walk across the Taihei-kaku covered bridge reflecting blooming blossoms. ▸ Yamamoto Menzou Award-Winning Udon & Grill Kodakaraya Omurice: Taste Kyoto's highest-rated chewy tempura noodles and classic bistro fare.