八坂神社を英語で説明・紹介するための基本情報と、英会話に役立つ表現をシンプルでわかりやすい英語で紹介します。
英会話ダイアローグ・概要・10の質問を通して、八坂神社に関する英語表現を学びます。
英語
英会話ダイアローグを読む前に知っておくと良い前提知識と情報です。
- 八坂神社とは（基本情報）
- 京都市東山区 祇園エリア にある疫病除け、厄除け、商売繁盛の神様として有名な神社
- 創建は656年（飛鳥時代） とされ、約1300年以上の歴史がある
- 主祭神はスサノオノミコト（疫病や災厄を鎮める神様）
- 八坂神社の魅力と見どころ
- 朱色の西楼門：四条通の象徴的な門で、観光客がよく写真を撮るスポット
- 舞殿と提灯：境内にある舞殿には、たくさんの提灯がかけられ、夜は幻想的な雰囲気
- 美御前社：美の神様を祀る小さな神社、「美容水」を肌につけると美しくなると言われている
- 疫神社：病気平癒や健康祈願のための神社
- 祇園祭と八坂神社の関係
- 祇園祭は日本三大祭の一つ で、八坂神社の祭礼
- 7月1日から31日までの1か月間 にわたって開催
- 最も有名なイベントは 山鉾巡行で、7月17日と24日 に華やかな山鉾が京都の街を巡る
- 八坂神社の四季の楽しみ方
- 春：隣接する 円山公園 の桜が満開になり、多くの花見客でにぎわう
- 夏：祇園祭があり、一年で最も神社が活気づく時期
- 秋：八坂神社周辺や円山公園の紅葉が見どころ
- 冬：大晦日の伝統行事 「をけら詣り」で、「をけら火」を持ち帰り、新年最初の料理を作ると無病息災になると言われている
- 八坂神社周辺の観光スポット
- 祇園エリア（花見小路・石畳の町並み・舞妓さんが見られる）
- 清水寺、高台寺、建仁寺（徒歩圏内にある京都の有名なお寺）
- 四条河原町（ショッピングや食事におすすめ）
2人が八坂神社について話しています。
八坂神社の特徴や歴史、朱色の西楼門などの見どころ、祇園祭との関係などを話題にしています。
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, I’m thinking about visiting Kyoto soon. I’ve heard a lot about Yasaka Shrine—apparently, it’s one of the most famous shrines there. Have you been?
Yeah, I’ve been there a few times! It’s definitely one of Kyoto’s most important shrines. What made you interested in it?
I saw some photos of its big red gate and the lanterns at night—it looks really atmospheric. Plus, I heard it’s open 24 hours. That’s rare for a shrine, right?
Yeah, most shrines have closing hours, but Yasaka Shrine is open all the time. It’s actually really peaceful at night, with the lanterns glowing softly.
That sounds amazing. But what makes it so important in Kyoto’s history?
Well, it was founded in 656 AD, making it one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto. In the past, people believed it protected the city from disease and misfortune.
Really? So it played an important role in keeping Kyoto safe?
Exactly! The main deity, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, is believed to have the power to prevent epidemics. That’s why people have been coming here for protection and good health for centuries.
Interesting. So it’s not just a sightseeing spot—it’s also a place with deep spiritual significance.
Yep. And it’s also the center of Gion Festival, which is one of Japan’s three biggest festivals.
Oh, I’ve heard of Gion Festival! Doesn’t it last for a whole month?
The festival period spans a month, but the biggest events, like the Yamahoko Parade, are on July 17 and 24. Those are the days when huge, beautifully decorated floats move through the streets.
That must be incredible to see in person! But if I visit outside of July, is there still a lot to see at Yasaka Shrine?
Definitely! There’s a small shrine inside Yasaka Shrine called Utsukushi-gozen Shrine. It’s famous for its “beauty water”, which people believe can improve their skin.
Beauty water? That sounds like something my sister would love!
Haha, yeah, a lot of people visit for that. There’s also Eki Shrine, which is known for prayers related to health and protection from sickness.
So Yasaka Shrine is a mix of history, spirituality, festivals, and even self-care. That’s pretty unique!
Exactly. And if you visit in spring, the cherry blossoms in Maruyama Park, right next to the shrine, are absolutely beautiful.
Oh, I love cherry blossoms! Maybe I should plan my trip for spring.
Or, if you go in winter, there’s Okeramairi on New Year’s Eve. People take home sacred fire (“Okerabi”) from the shrine to cook their first meal of the year. It’s believed to bring good luck and health.
That’s really cool! So Yasaka Shrine isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place where you can experience real Japanese traditions.
Exactly! It’s not just a tourist spot, it’s a living part of Kyoto’s culture. You should definitely go!
概要 / Overview
「八坂神社」について、理解を深めるための「英語での概要」です。
八坂神社
Introduction
Yasaka Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto, Japan. It is located in Gion, a popular area known for its traditional streets and geisha culture. Many people visit Yasaka Shrine for sightseeing, prayers, and festivals. The shrine has a long history and plays an important role in Kyoto’s culture.
History of Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine was founded in 656 AD, making it one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto. In the past, people believed that the shrine protected Kyoto from disease and disasters. The main deity of the shrine is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a powerful god who is said to prevent epidemics and bring good fortune. Before the Meiji period (1868–1912), it was called Gion Shrine because of its strong connection to the Gion area.
Main Features of the Shrine
One of the most famous parts of Yasaka Shrine is its big red gate (Nishi-Romon) at the entrance. Many visitors take pictures here. Inside the shrine, there is a dance stage (Buden) with many white lanterns, which light up beautifully at night. The shrine is also unique because it is open 24 hours a day, so people can visit anytime.
Gion Festival – A Famous Event
Yasaka Shrine is the center of the Gion Festival, one of the three biggest festivals in Japan. The festival takes place every July, and the most famous event is the Yamahoko Parade on July 17 and 24. During this parade, large and beautifully decorated floats move through the streets of Kyoto. Many tourists visit Kyoto during this time to see the festival.
Other Attractions at Yasaka Shrine
There are also smaller shrines inside Yasaka Shrine. One of them is Utsukushi-gozen Shrine, which is famous for beauty water. People believe that washing their hands and face with this water makes their skin more beautiful. Another important shrine is Eki Shrine, where people pray for good health and protection from illness.
Conclusion
Yasaka Shrine is a special place in Kyoto with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and important traditions. Whether you visit during Gion Festival, cherry blossom season, or New Year’s Eve, there is always something interesting to see. If you go to Kyoto, Yasaka Shrine is a must-visit place!
10の質問 / 10 questions
「八坂神社」について、理解を深めるための「英語での10の質問」です。
1: What is Yasaka Shrine?
Yasaka Shrine is a famous Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its long history, cultural importance, and connection to the Gion area.
2: When was Yasaka Shrine founded?
Yasaka Shrine was founded in 656 AD, making it one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto.
3: Who is the main deity of Yasaka Shrine?
The main deity is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a god believed to protect people from disease and bring good fortune.
4: What is special about Yasaka Shrine’s opening hours?
Unlike many shrines, Yasaka Shrine is open 24 hours a day, so visitors can go anytime, even at night.
5: What is the Gion Festival?
The Gion Festival is one of Japan’s three biggest festivals. It is held in July and features large, beautifully decorated floats in the Yamahoko Parade.
6: When does the Yamahoko Parade take place?
The Yamahoko Parade happens on July 17 and 24 during the Gion Festival.
7: What is Utsukushi-gozen Shrine?
Utsukushi-gozen Shrine is a small shrine inside Yasaka Shrine. It is famous for its “beauty water,” which people believe can improve their skin.
8: What is Okeramairi?
Okeramairi is a New Year’s Eve tradition at Yasaka Shrine. People take home sacred fire, called Okerabi, to cook their first meal of the year for good luck and health.
9: What is special about Maruyama Park near Yasaka Shrine?
Maruyama Park is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot located next to Yasaka Shrine. It is very popular in spring.
10: How can visitors get to Yasaka Shrine?
Visitors can take the Keihan train to Gion-Shijo Station (5 minutes on foot) or the Hankyu train to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station (10 minutes on foot). The nearest bus stop is Gion.
和訳付
会話 / dialogue
Hey Key, I’m thinking about visiting Kyoto soon. I’ve heard a lot about Yasaka Shrine—apparently, it’s one of the most famous shrines there. Have you been?
なあキー、今度京都に行こうと思ってるんだ。八坂神社ってすごく有名な神社らしいけど、行ったことある？
Yeah, I’ve been there a few times! It’s definitely one of Kyoto’s most important shrines. What made you interested in it?
うん、何回か行ったことあるよ！京都でも特に重要な神社の一つだよ。どうして興味を持ったの？
I saw some photos of its big red gate and the lanterns at night—it looks really atmospheric. Plus, I heard it’s open 24 hours. That’s rare for a shrine, right?
大きな赤い門とか、夜に提灯が灯ってる写真を見たんだけど、すごく雰囲気があるよね。それに、24時間開いてるって聞いたんだけど、神社では珍しいよね？
Yeah, most shrines have closing hours, but Yasaka Shrine is open all the time. It’s actually really peaceful at night, with the lanterns glowing softly.
そうだね、普通の神社は閉門時間があるけど、八坂神社はずっと開いてるんだよ。夜は提灯がほんのり光ってて、すごく落ち着いた雰囲気になるよ。
That sounds amazing. But what makes it so important in Kyoto’s history?
それはいいね。でも、京都の歴史の中で八坂神社がそんなに重要なのはどうして？
Well, it was founded in 656 AD, making it one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto. In the past, people believed it protected the city from disease and misfortune.
実は、西暦656年に創建されたんだ。京都でも最も古い神社の一つで、昔は病気や災厄から町を守ってくれると信じられていたんだよ。
Really? So it played an important role in keeping Kyoto safe?
そうなの？じゃあ、京都を守る上で重要な役割を果たしていたんだね？
Exactly! The main deity, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, is believed to have the power to prevent epidemics. That’s why people have been coming here for protection and good health for centuries.
その通り！主祭神のスサノオノミコトは疫病を防ぐ力があるとされていて、昔から多くの人が健康や厄除けを願って参拝してきたんだよ。
Interesting. So it’s not just a sightseeing spot—it’s also a place with deep spiritual significance.
なるほど。ただの観光スポットじゃなくて、精神的にもすごく大事な場所なんだね。
Yep. And it’s also the center of Gion Festival, which is one of Japan’s three biggest festivals.
そうなんだ。そして、八坂神社は日本三大祭の一つ、「祇園祭」の中心でもあるんだよ。
Oh, I’ve heard of Gion Festival! Doesn’t it last for a whole month?
ああ、祇園祭って聞いたことあるよ！1か月くらい続くんだよね？
The festival period spans a month, but the biggest events, like the Yamahoko Parade, are on July 17 and 24. Those are the days when huge, beautifully decorated floats move through the streets.
お祭りの期間自体は1か月あるけど、一番盛り上がるのは7月17日と24日の「山鉾巡行」だね。その日は、豪華に飾られた大きな山鉾が街を練り歩くんだよ。
That must be incredible to see in person! But if I visit outside of July, is there still a lot to see at Yasaka Shrine?
実際に見たらすごい迫力だろうね！でも、7月以外の時期に行っても楽しめるの？
Definitely! There’s a small shrine inside Yasaka Shrine called Utsukushi-gozen Shrine. It’s famous for its “beauty water,” which people believe can improve their skin.
もちろん！八坂神社の境内には「美御前社」っていう小さな神社があってね、そこで有名なのが「美容水」なんだ。肌がきれいになるって言われてるよ。
Beauty water? That sounds like something my sister would love!
美容水？それ、うちの妹がすごく喜びそう！
Haha, yeah, a lot of people visit for that. There’s also Eki Shrine, which is known for prayers related to health and protection from sickness.
はは、そうだね。結構人気だよ。他にも「疫神社」があって、健康や病気平癒を願う人が多く訪れるんだ。
So Yasaka Shrine is a mix of history, spirituality, festivals, and even self-care. That’s pretty unique!
つまり、八坂神社って歴史や信仰、お祭りだけじゃなくて、美容や健康のご利益もあるんだね。すごくユニークな神社じゃん！
Exactly. And if you visit in spring, the cherry blossoms in Maruyama Park, right next to the shrine, are absolutely beautiful.
その通り。それに春に行くなら、隣の円山公園の桜がめちゃくちゃ綺麗だよ。
Oh, I love cherry blossoms! Maybe I should plan my trip for spring.
おお、桜大好きなんだよね！じゃあ春に旅行計画立てようかな。
Or, if you go in winter, there’s Okeramairi on New Year’s Eve. People take home sacred fire (“Okerabi”) from the shrine to cook their first meal of the year. It’s believed to bring good luck and health.
それか、冬に行くなら大晦日の「をけら詣り」もおすすめだよ。神社の「をけら火」を持ち帰って、それで新年最初の料理を作ると、無病息災になるって言われてるんだ。
That’s really cool! So Yasaka Shrine isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place where you can experience real Japanese traditions.
それめっちゃ面白いじゃん！八坂神社ってただ行くだけじゃなくて、日本の伝統を体験できる場所なんだね。
Exactly! It’s not just a tourist spot, it’s a living part of Kyoto’s culture. You should definitely go!
そうそう！ただの観光地じゃなくて、京都の文化が今も息づいてる場所なんだ。絶対行ったほうがいいよ！
概要 / Overview
八坂神社
Introduction
Yasaka Shrine is one of the most famous shrines in Kyoto, Japan. It is located in Gion, a popular area known for its traditional streets and geisha culture. Many people visit Yasaka Shrine for sightseeing, prayers, and festivals. The shrine has a long history and plays an important role in Kyoto’s culture.
イントロダクション
八坂神社は、日本の京都で最も有名な神社の一つです。京都の伝統的な町並みや芸者文化で知られる祇園エリアにあります。多くの人が観光や参拝、お祭りのために八坂神社を訪れます。この神社は長い歴史を持ち、京都の文化にとって重要な役割を果たしています。
History of Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine was founded in 656 AD, making it one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto. In the past, people believed that the shrine protected Kyoto from disease and disasters. The main deity of the shrine is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a powerful god who is said to prevent epidemics and bring good fortune. Before the Meiji period (1868–1912), it was called Gion Shrine because of its strong connection to the Gion area.
八坂神社の歴史
八坂神社は西暦656年に創建され、京都で最も古い神社の一つです。昔の人々は、この神社が京都を病気や災害から守ると信じていました。神社の主祭神はスサノオノミコトで、疫病を防ぎ、幸運をもたらすとされています。明治時代（1868年～1912年）以前は、祇園社と呼ばれ、祇園エリアとの強い関係がありました。
Main Features of the Shrine
One of the most famous parts of Yasaka Shrine is its big red gate (Nishi-Romon) at the entrance. Many visitors take pictures here. Inside the shrine, there is a dance stage (Buden) with many white lanterns, which light up beautifully at night. The shrine is also unique because it is open 24 hours a day, so people can visit anytime.
八坂神社の主な特徴
八坂神社で最も有名な場所の一つは、入り口にある大きな赤い門（西楼門）です。多くの観光客がここで写真を撮ります。境内には舞殿（ぶでん）があり、たくさんの白い提灯が飾られています。夜になると美しくライトアップされ、幻想的な雰囲気になります。また、八坂神社は24時間開いているため、いつでも参拝できるのが特徴です。
Gion Festival – A Famous Event
Yasaka Shrine is the center of the Gion Festival, one of the three biggest festivals in Japan. The festival takes place every July, and the most famous event is the Yamahoko Parade on July 17 and 24. During this parade, large and beautifully decorated floats move through the streets of Kyoto. Many tourists visit Kyoto during this time to see the festival.
祇園祭 – 有名なお祭り
八坂神社は、日本の三大祭の一つである「祇園祭」の中心地です。祇園祭は毎年7月に行われ、最も有名なイベントは7月17日と24日の「山鉾巡行」です。この巡行では、巨大で美しく装飾された山鉾が京都の街を進みます。この時期には、多くの観光客が祇園祭を見に京都を訪れます。
Other Attractions at Yasaka Shrine
There are also smaller shrines inside Yasaka Shrine. One of them is Utsukushi-gozen Shrine, which is famous for beauty water. People believe that washing their hands and face with this water makes their skin more beautiful. Another important shrine is Eki Shrine, where people pray for good health and protection from illness.
八坂神社のその他の見どころ
八坂神社の境内には、小さな神社もあります。その一つが美御前社（うつくしごぜんしゃ）で、ここには美容水があります。この水で手や顔を洗うと、肌が美しくなると信じられています。また、もう一つの重要な神社が疫神社（えきじんじゃ）で、人々はここで健康や病気平癒を祈願します。
Conclusion
Yasaka Shrine is a special place in Kyoto with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and important traditions. Whether you visit during Gion Festival, cherry blossom season, or New Year’s Eve, there is always something interesting to see. If you go to Kyoto, Yasaka Shrine is a must-visit place!
まとめ
八坂神社は、京都の特別な場所であり、豊かな歴史、美しい建築、そして重要な伝統を持っています。祇園祭、桜の季節、大晦日など、どの時期に訪れても魅力的なものが見られます。京都に行くなら、八坂神社は絶対に訪れるべき場所です！
10の質問 / 10 questions
1: What is Yasaka Shrine?
八坂神社とは何ですか？
Yasaka Shrine is a famous Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan. It is known for its long history, cultural importance, and connection to the Gion area.
八坂神社は、日本の京都にある有名な神社です。長い歴史、文化的重要性、そして祇園エリアとの関係で知られています。
2: When was Yasaka Shrine founded?
八坂神社はいつ創建されましたか？
Yasaka Shrine was founded in 656 AD, making it one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto.
八坂神社は西暦656年に創建され、京都で最も古い神社の一つです。
3: Who is the main deity of Yasaka Shrine?
八坂神社の主祭神は誰ですか？
The main deity is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a god believed to protect people from disease and bring good fortune.
主祭神はスサノオノミコトで、人々を疫病から守り、幸運をもたらすと信じられています。
4: What is special about Yasaka Shrine’s opening hours?
八坂神社の開門時間の特徴は何ですか？
Unlike many shrines, Yasaka Shrine is open 24 hours a day, so visitors can go anytime, even at night.
多くの神社と異なり、八坂神社は24時間開いているため、夜でも参拝することができます。
5: What is the Gion Festival?
祇園祭とは何ですか？
The Gion Festival is one of Japan’s three biggest festivals. It is held in July and features large, beautifully decorated floats in the Yamahoko Parade.
祇園祭は、日本三大祭の一つです。毎年7月に開催され、山鉾巡行では大きく美しく装飾された山鉾が登場します。
6: When does the Yamahoko Parade take place?
山鉾巡行はいつ行われますか？
The Yamahoko Parade happens on July 17 and 24 during the Gion Festival.
山鉾巡行は祇園祭の期間中、7月17日と24日に行われます。
7: What is Utsukushi-gozen Shrine?
美御前社とは何ですか？
Utsukushi-gozen Shrine is a small shrine inside Yasaka Shrine. It is famous for its “beauty water,” which people believe can improve their skin.
美御前社は、八坂神社の境内にある小さな神社です。ここには「美容水」があり、それを使うと肌が美しくなると信じられています。
8: What is Okeramairi?
をけら詣りとは何ですか？
Okeramairi is a New Year’s Eve tradition at Yasaka Shrine. People take home sacred fire, called Okerabi, to cook their first meal of the year for good luck and health.
をけら詣りは、大晦日に八坂神社で行われる伝統行事です。人々は「をけら火」という神聖な火を持ち帰り、新年最初の食事を作ることで幸運と健康を願います。
9: What is special about Maruyama Park near Yasaka Shrine?
八坂神社の近くにある円山公園の特徴は何ですか？
Maruyama Park is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot located next to Yasaka Shrine. It is very popular in spring.
円山公園は、八坂神社の隣にある桜の名所です。春には多くの人が訪れます。
10: How can visitors get to Yasaka Shrine?
八坂神社へのアクセス方法は？
Visitors can take the Keihan train to Gion-Shijo Station (5 minutes on foot) or the Hankyu train to Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station (10 minutes on foot). The nearest bus stop is Gion.
京阪電車の祇園四条駅から徒歩5分、または阪急電車の京都河原町駅から徒歩10分で行けます。一番近いバス停は「祇園」です。
words & phrases
英会話ダイアローグと関連情報に出てきた単語・フレーズです（例文は各３つ）。
atmospheric : 形容詞
意味: 雰囲気のある、情緒的な。Having a special mood or feeling, often related to a place.
（八坂神社の夜の提灯の光が幻想的で雰囲気のある様子を表す）
例文:
- The old café had a very atmospheric charm.「その古いカフェはとても雰囲気があった。」
- The dim lights made the restaurant look more atmospheric.
「薄暗い照明が、そのレストランをより雰囲気のある場所にしていた。」 - Yasaka Shrine at night is atmospheric, with its softly glowing lanterns
「八坂神社の夜は、ほんのり光る提灯が幻想的で雰囲気がある。」
deity : 名詞
意味: 神、神格。A god or goddess, especially in a polytheistic religion.
（八坂神社の主祭神であるスサノオノミコトを指す）
例文:
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto is the deity worshipped at Yasaka Shrine.
「スサノオノミコトは八坂神社で祀られている神である。」 - In Greek mythology, Zeus is the most powerful deity.
「ギリシャ神話では、ゼウスが最も強力な神である。」 - Many ancient cultures worshiped the sun as a deity.
「多くの古代文化では、太陽が神として崇拝されていた。」
epidemic : 名詞
意味: 伝染病、疫病。A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular time.
（八坂神社が京都を疫病から守るために信仰されたことを説明する際に使用）
例文:
- Yasaka Shrine was believed to protect Kyoto from epidemics.
「八坂神社は京都を疫病から守ると信じられていた。」 - The city suffered from a serious epidemic in the 18th century.
「18世紀、その都市は深刻な疫病に見舞われた。」 - Scientists are working to prevent the spread of the epidemic.
「科学者たちは疫病の拡大を防ぐために取り組んでいる。」
span : 動詞・名詞
意味: （動詞）一定期間にわたる、（名詞）期間。To extend across a period of time or space; the length of time something lasts.
（祇園祭が1か月にわたって開催されることを説明する際に使用）
例文:
- The Gion Festival spans the entire month of July.
「祇園祭は7月の1か月間にわたって開催される。」 - His career spanned over 30 years.
「彼のキャリアは30年以上にわたった。」 - The bridge has a span of 500 meters.
「その橋の長さは500メートルである。」
float : 名詞・動詞
意味: （名詞）山鉾、祭りで使われる飾り付きの乗り物。（動詞）浮く、漂う。A decorated platform used in a festival parade; to stay on the surface of a liquid or move lightly in the air.
（祇園祭の山鉾（やまほこ）を指す）
例文:
- The Yamahoko Parade features large and beautifully decorated floats.
「山鉾巡行では、大きく美しく飾られた山鉾が登場する。」 - A small boat floated down the river.
「小さなボートが川を流れていった。」 - Balloons float in the sky during the festival.
「祭りの間、風船が空を漂う。」
詳細情報 / Further Info
関連記事（祇園祭）
