Japanese irises are in full bloom at the shrine garden of Heian Jingu Shrine (Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City). Karen flowers color the waterside and please the eyes of worshipers.

Japanese irises at their best (Kyoto City Sakyo Ward, Heian Jingu Shrine West Garden)

Shinen consists of four gardens and is designated as a national scenic spot. A total of 2,000 irises of about 200 species are planted around Byakko Pond in Nishishinen Garden.

Students on school excursions and tourists looked at the purple and white flowers in full bloom, pointed their smartphones at them, and commented "wow". A 67-year-old woman from Hyogo Prefecture said, "The colors are cool and soothing. It's perfect for the hot and humid season."

The best time to see them is until late June. She needs an admission fee (600 yen for adults).