平野神社を自転車で通る（実は乗ってはいけない）Hirano Shrine is a small and pleasant shrine not far from Ritsumeikan University in northwest Kyoto, just off Nishi-oji Dori.
It was founded in 794 C.E. when the capital was moved to Heian-kyo (the ancient name for Kyoto) from Nagaoka-kyo, which is now a part of the southern tip of the city of Kyoto.
Hirano Shrine is best known for its cherry trees.
Since 985, there have been annual cherry blossom viewing events.
Today it is often full of college students reveling under the trees, singing and drinking.
Cycling, however, is not permitted, as the small sign attests.
InformationEntry into the grounds is free. There is a booth that sells o-mamori, the good luck charms all shrines sell. Within the grounds is a majestic four-hundred-year-old camphor tree.
By bus from Kyoto Station, take the #205 or #50 to Kinugasa Komae. From Sanjo Keihan, take #15 and get off at the same stop. From Shijo Omiya (Hankyu Railways), take #55 to the same stop.
Hirano Shrine (in Japanese)
Tel: 075 461 4450
Hirano Miyamoto-cho 1, Kita-ku, Kyoto
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