八坂神社

Come after dark if you can. The lanterns that line Yasaka Shrine's grounds at night create an atmosphere you won't get during the day, and the entrance from Shijo-dori stays open late.

The shrine has a close connection to Gion Matsuri, Kyoto's famous summer festival, so if your trip overlaps with July, this is a logical stop to build around.

The location makes it easy to combine with a walk through Gion or up into Higashiyama, both of which are right on the doorstep. You're unlikely to visit one without passing the others.