Affectionately known as "gion-san," this ancient shrine has been in existence since before the capital was moved to heian-kyo (794). it is the head shrine of about 2,300 shrines across the country, including yasaka shrine. in addition to the main hall, a national treasure, 29 buildings have been designated as important cultural properties, and there are many auxiliary shrines and subordinate shrines known for various benefits. among them, "utsukushigozensha," worshipped as the goddess of beauty because it enshrines three goddesses who govern beauty, and "okuninushisha," known for matchmaking, are particularly popular among women.