Daigokuden
The Daigokuden is the shrine’s outer hall of worship. Directly behind it is the main sanctuary, the Honden, where Emperor Kanmu (737–806) and Emperor Komei (1831–1866) are enshrined. They were the first and last emperors to rule from Heiankyo. The Honden is not open to the public, but anyone may climb the steps of the Daigokuden to offer a prayer.
The Daigokuden is a scale replica of the palace original, which would have been almost twice the size. The State Hall of the Imperial Palace or Chodoin complex, was the administrative center of the Heiankyo capital, and the Daigokuden was the main ceremonial hall, housing the throne of the emperor. It is where the emperor would have presided over important ceremonies and affairs of state.
The Heian Jingu Daigokuden is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan along with several other shrine buildings, including the Otenmon Gate and the Byakkoro and Soryuro towers.