The Yasaka shrine is dedicated to Susanoo in the tradition of the Gion faith as its chief kami, with his consort Kushinadahime on the east, and eight offspring deities (yahashira no mikogami) on the west.

The Shrine became the object of Imperial patronage during the early Heian period.

[3]: 124 In 965, Emperor Murakami ordered that Imperial messengers be sent to report important events to the guardian kami of Japan.

The pikes became decorated, larger, and eventually morphed into the famous Gion Matsuri yamaboko (山鉾) floats.

In April, the crowds pass through the temple on their way to Maruyama Park, a popular hanami (cherry blossom viewing) site.