Yasaka Shrine, in Kyōto, Japan, has three main kami enshrined: Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Kushiinadahime-no-Mikoto, and Yahashira-no-Mikogami. The shrine was originally a temple, but due to the separation of temples and shrines during the Meiji Restoration, Yasaka was made into a shrine. Some of the architecture of the buildings reflect its heritage as a temple. The date of the shrine's (then a temple) creation is not exactly known, but it is thought to perhaps date to 150 years before the Heian period (794-1185). Yasaka's influence since its inception has led to the rise of approximately 3,000 satellite shrines around Japan.
The main event for Yasaka and Kyōto is the Gion Matsuri. During the entire month of July, the people of Kyōto work together to hold the matsuri or festival, with Yasaka playing a major role as the shrine to host this event. Various rituals throughout the month are held at Yasaka, with perhaps the most important being the movement of the kami from the shrine to the city streets and back to the shrine. Yasaka Shrine is crucial to Gion Matsuri and the lives of the people in Kyōto. Yasaka also holds several festivals not pertaining to Gion Matsuri during the year. |
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