Yasaka Shrine, once called Gion Shrine, is a Shinto shrine in the Gion district of Kyoto, at the east end of Shijō-dōri. The infobox gives the style as Gion-zukuri, and the article says initial construction began in 656. It names no architect or client. The shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto Yashimajinumi, with his consort Kushinadahime on the east and eight offspring deities on the west.
Imperial patronage began in the early Heian period. In 994 Emperor Ichijō added Gion Shrine to the shrines receiving imperial messengers. During the Meiji Restoration it became Yasaka Shrine, and worship changed from Gozu Tenno to Susanoo. From 1871 to 1946 it held the Kanpei-taisha rank.
An 869 ritual at Shinsenen to appease vengeful spirits during an epidemic later became the Gion Matsuri, held every July with floats and mikoshi processions. Thousands visit at New Year.
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