Top 17 Things to Do in Kyoto

Explore the top 17 must-visit places in Kyoto, where history and beauty converge in spectacular fashion.

From the iconic Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, to the vibrant streets of Nishiki Market, each location promises a memorable experience.

This guide highlights the essential stops that every traveler should make to fully appreciate the unique beauty and historical depth of Kyoto.

Are you ready to discover the best of Kyoto? 😊

1. Kinkakuji Temple

a. What to Expect

• Golden pavilion covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on a pond
• Surrounded by a traditional Japanese stroll garden
• One of Kyoto’s most iconic and popular attractions
• Can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons
  • Spring (late March to early April): Cherry blossom season
  • Fall (October to November): Autumn foliage viewing
  • Golden Week (late April to early May): Japanese holiday period
  • Late December to early January: New Year holidays

b. Seasonal Highlights

• Spring (late March to early April): Enjoy cherry blossoms framing the golden pavilion
• Summer (June to August): Admire the contrast of lush greenery against the golden structure
• Autumn (mid-November to early December): Marvel at the fiery red maple leaves complementing the gold
• Winter (December to February): Witness the stunning sight of snow-covered grounds contrasting with the golden pavilion

c. Admiring the Golden Pavilion

• Take in the stunning view of the pavilion reflected in the pond
• Notice the different architectural styles of each floor
• Look for the phoenix statue on top of the roof
• Try to spot the statues inside through the open doors (you can’t enter)
• Capture photos from various angles around the pond

d. Exploring the Gardens

• Find the coin-tossing statues for good luck
• Follow the designated path through the beautiful landscaped gardens
• Look for the Anmintaku Pond, said to never dry up
• Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful Zen atmosphere

e. How to Get There

• To get to Kinkakuji Temple, board the Kyoto City Bus No. 205 from Kyoto Station (Stand B3) and alight at the Kinkakujimichi Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 44 minutes. From Kinkakujimichi, it’s a 6-minute walk to the temple.

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2. Sannenzaka

a. What to Expect

• Historic pedestrian street lined with traditional wooden buildings
• Preserved atmosphere of old Kyoto
• Name means “three-year slope”
• Many shops selling traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local snacks
• Gently sloping stone-paved path

b. Exploring the Historic Street

• Walk the 150-meter gently curving slope with stone stairs and pavement
• Admire the preserved machiya townhouses from the Edo to Taisho era
• Look for the gas lamps that illuminate the path at dusk, creating a nostalgic scene
• Take photos of the charming streetscape, often used as a backdrop for TV commercials and posters
• Combine it with a visit to Ninenzaka (the adjacent street) and Kiyomizudera Temple
• Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the area thoroughly

c. Shopping and Souvenirs

• Browse traditional souvenir shops selling Kyoto-specific items like dolls and Japanese fans
• Check out pottery stores offering Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki ceramics
• Look for shops selling woodcut prints, postcards, and goods related to Yumeji Takehisa’s paintings
• Consider buying a gourd at the base of the slope (it’s said to protect you from bad luck)

d. Enjoying Local Food and Drinks

• Fujinami: Preserves traditional Kyoto flavors. Recommended for iced matcha and dango, particularly their popular soy sauce-flavored dango.
• Kirakuan Okamoto Sanneizaka: Famous for “Maiko-yaki” treats shaped like geisha apprentices, available in red bean, cream, matcha, and ham & cheese flavors. Their croquettes are also popular.
• Okutan Kiyomizu: Known for handmade tofu. Specializes in soy milk and black honey shaved ice, praised for its rich homemade soy milk flavor.
• Ukiya Kiyomizu Kiseian: While famous for handmade soba, their oyakodon (especially the fried shrimp version) is exceptional, featuring crispy batter and tender shrimp.
• Umezono Kiyomizu: Established 1927, offers classic Japanese sweets including matcha, shiratama zenzai (red bean soup with mochi), warabi mochi, and seasonal specialties.

e. How to Get There

• To get to Sannenzaka, board the Kyoto City Bus No. 206 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) and alight at the Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 25 minutes. From Kiyomizu-michi, it’s a 10-minute walk to Sannenzaka.
• Alternative Option (Only on Sat/Sun/Holiday): Take the Limited Express Bus EX100/101 from Kyoto Station (Stand D1) to the Gojozaka Bus Stop. The journey takes about 13 minutes and costs 500 yen. From Gojozaka, it’s a 10-minute walk to Sannenzaka.

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3. Ninenzaka

a. Overview

• Adjacent to Sannenzaka in the Higashiyama District
• Name means “two-year slope”
• Preserves traditional Kyoto architecture and atmosphere
• Popular for its nostalgic charm and photo opportunities

b. What You’ll Find

• Traditional tea houses and restaurants
• Souvenir shops selling local crafts and snacks
• Opportunity to see geishas and maikos (especially in the evening)
• Mix of old and new businesses in historic buildings

c. Enjoying Local Food and Drinks

• Starbucks Kyoto Nineizaka Yasaka Chaya: Unique Starbucks featuring tatami seating, offering a blend of modern coffee and traditional Japanese atmosphere.
• Ishidatami: Known for excellent soft-serve ice cream, particularly their rich matcha flavor made with homemade sauce.
• Fujinami Kodai-ji Temple Store: Specializes in traditional Kyoto-style dango and mochi. Famous for handcrafted sweets using quality ingredients.
• Kasagiya: This traditional sweet shop offers a taste of Taisho-era Japan. Try their o-hagi (rice cakes) and zenzai (sweet bean soup).

d. How to Get There

• To get to Ninenzaka, board the Kyoto City Bus No. 206 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) and alight at the Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 25 minutes. From Kiyomizu-michi, it’s a 10-minute walk to Ninenzaka.
• Alternative Option (Only on Sat/Sun/Holiday): Take the Limited Express Bus EX100/101 from Kyoto Station (Stand D1) to the Gojozaka Bus Stop. The journey takes about 13 minutes and costs 500 yen. From Gojozaka, it’s a 10-minute walk to Ninenzaka.

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4. Yasaka Pagoda

a. Overview

• Five-story pagoda in the Higashiyama District
• One of the most photographed spots in Kyoto
• Part of Hokanji Temple
• Offers a picturesque backdrop nestled among traditional streets

b. Exterior and Surroundings

• The pagoda is 46 meters tall, making it the third highest wooden building in Kyoto
• It features graceful, sloping roofs on each tier
• The unique architectural style of the roofs is called “honkawara-buki”
• The pagoda is surrounded by smaller residential buildings
• The pagoda is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season in spring

c. Visiting Tips

• Exterior viewable 24/7
• Interior occasionally open to public
• No entrance fee for viewing from the street
• Best viewed from Yasaka Dori street
• Consider combining your visit with other nearby attractions like Kiyomizudera Temple or Yasaka Shrine

d. How to Get There

• To get to Yasaka Pagoda, board the Kyoto City Bus No. 206 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) and alight at the Gion Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 20 minutes. From Gion, it’s a 5-minute walk to the pagoda.
• Alternative Option (Only on Sat/Sun/Holiday): Take the Limited Express Bus EX100/101 from Kyoto Station (Stand D1) to the Gojozaka Bus Stop. The journey takes about 13 minutes and costs 500 yen. From Gojozaka, it’s a 10-minute walk to the pagoda.

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5. Yasaka Shrine

a. Cultural Significance

• One of Kyoto’s most prominent Shinto shrines, dating back over 1,350 years
• Known for hosting the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most famous festivals

b. Main Attractions

• Start at the iconic vermilion West Gate, a perfect spot for photos
• Look for the Zuishin warrior statues guarding both sides of the gate
• Check out the dance stage in front of the main hall, surrounded by lanterns
• Visit the main hall, which combines the inner sanctuary and offering hall
• Beautiful at night when lanterns are lit

c. Cultural Experiences

• Ring the temple bells and make a small offering at the main hall
• Visit Utsukushii Gozen-sha to pray for beauty (popular among geiko and maiko)
• Look for the lanterns around the shrine, each bearing the name of a local business
• If you’re there in July, experience the famous Gion Matsuri festival
• During cherry blossom season, enjoy the blossoms in adjacent Maruyama Park

d. How to Get There

• To get to Yasaka Shrine, board the Kyoto City Bus No. 206 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) and alight at the Gion Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 20 minutes. From Gion, it’s a 5-minute walk to the shrine.
• Alternative Option: Take Kyoto City Bus No. 106 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) to the Gion Bus Stop. This option takes about 20 minutes and costs 230 yen.

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6. Kiyomizudera Temple

a. UNESCO World Heritage Site

• One of Kyoto’s most celebrated temples, founded in 780 AD
• Famous for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering panoramic views

b. Main Attractions

• Beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn
• Visit the Main Hall with its 13-meter-high stage and terrace offering panoramic Kyoto views
• Explore the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the deity of love and matchmaking
• Visit the three-storied pagoda near the entrance, one of the tallest in Japan at 31 meters

c. Cultural Experiences

• Check out the Otowa Waterfall at the base of the Main Hall, where three streams offer blessings for health, success, and love
• Ring the temple bells and make a small offering at the Main Hall
• Try the love stones at Jishu Shrine – if you can walk between them with your eyes closed, it’s said to bring luck in love

d. Photography Tips

• The three-storied pagoda near the entrance is a popular photography spot
• The wooden stage of the Main Hall offers great views of the cherry and maple trees below
• Early morning or evening visits provide the best lighting for photos
• From the Inner Sanctuary, you can get a great view of the Main Hall and Kyoto city

e. How to Get There

• To get to Kiyomizudera Temple, board the Kyoto City Bus No. 206 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) and alight at the Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 25 minutes. From Kiyomizu-michi, it’s a 10-minute walk to the temple.
• Alternative Option (Only on Sat/Sun/Holiday): Take the Limited Express Bus EX100 from Kyoto Station (Stand D1) to the Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop. The journey takes about 14 minutes and costs 500 yen.

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7. Fushimi Inari Shrine

a. Iconic Torii Gates

• Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and prosperity
• Famous for thousands of vibrant orange torii gates
• Gates form a tunnel-like path up Mount Inari
• Full hike to the summit takes 2-3 hours round trip
• You can turn back at any point if you’re short on time

b. Best Times to Visit

• The shrine is open 24/7, so you can visit anytime
• Early morning visits offer a serene atmosphere and good lighting for photos
• Spring and autumn are beautiful seasons to visit, but expect more crowds

c. What to See at the Main Shrine

• Start at the Romon Gate, donated in 1589 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi
• Visit the main hall (honden) to pay respects to the deity
• Look for the numerous fox statues – they’re considered messengers of Inari, the god of rice and prosperity
• Check out the “ema” (wooden plaques) with wishes written on them
• Don’t miss the fox-shaped ema, unique to this shrine

d. Unique Experiences

• Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine-Chaya for a traditional tea house experience. Try their famous amazake (sweet fermented rice drink), matcha ice cream, or refreshing shaved ice.
• Look for the “Heavy/Light Stone” along the trail.
• Try to spot the names of famous companies on the torii gates.
• Explore the smaller sub-shrines along the mountain trail.
• Dine at Inafuku, a local favorite known for its Inari sushi. Try their unique “Inarizushi Gozen” set meal, which includes various types of Inari sushi and seasonal side dishes.

e. How to Get There

• To get to Fushimi Inari Shrine, take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Inari Station (Only one exit). The train journey costs 140 yen and takes approximately 5 minutes. From Inari Station, it’s a 2-minute walk to the shrine.

Read More: A Complete Guide to Fushimi Inari Shrine

8. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

a. The Bamboo Grove Experience

• Towering green bamboo stalks creating a unique atmosphere
• A walking path that winds through the bamboo
• Iconic photo spot, featured in many Kyoto travel images
• Peaceful rustling sound as wind passes through bamboo

b. Best Times to Visit

• Early morning for fewer crowds and better light for photos
• Weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends
• Spring (cherry blossom season) and fall (autumn colors) are beautiful but busy
• Winter offers a serene atmosphere with fewer tourists
• There are no entrance fees for the bamboo grove itself

c. Walking Through the Grove

• The main path through the bamboo is shorter than you might expect, about 300 meters
• Look up to appreciate the towering bamboo stalks reaching skyward
• Listen for the unique sound of bamboo leaves rustling in the breeze
• Take your time to absorb the peaceful atmosphere, despite potential crowd

d. Photography Tips

• Use a wide-angle lens to capture the height of the bamboo.
• Try shooting upwards for a unique perspective.
• Early morning light can create beautiful effects through the bamboo.

e. Nearby Attractions

• Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, right next to the forest
• Take a stroll across the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge

f. How to Get There

• To get to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, take the JR Sanin Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (South Exit). The train journey costs 240 yen and takes approximately 15 minutes. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the bamboo forest.

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9. Togetsukyo Bridge

a. Scenic Landmark

• Iconic bridge spanning the Katsura River in Arashiyama
• The name means “Moon Crossing Bridge”, inspired by an emperor’s poetic observation
• It spans the Katsura River (also called Hozu River) and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains
• It’s a popular spot for viewing cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage

b. Best Times to Visit

• Early morning (before 9 AM) for fewer crowds and beautiful lighting
• Late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the river and mountains
• Spring (late March to early April) for cherry blossom views
• Autumn (mid-November to early December) for colorful fall foliage

c. Things to Do at the Bridge

• Take photos of the iconic bridge structure and surrounding scenery
• Walk across the bridge and enjoy panoramic views of the Arashiyama mountains
• Enjoy a rickshaw ride across the bridge for a unique experience

d. Nearby Attractions

• Explore the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, just a short walk away
• Visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site near the bridge
• Take a scenic ride on the Sagano Romantic Train for mountain views
• Stroll through the charming streets of Arashiyama, filled with traditional shops and cafes

e. How to Get There

• To get to Togetsukyo Bridge, take the JR Sanin Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (South Exit). The train journey costs 240 yen and takes approximately 15 minutes. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it’s a 15-minute walk to the bridge.

10. Tenryuji Temple

a. Key Features

• UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto’s five major Zen temples
• Famous Sogenchi Garden, a nationally recognized historic site
• Hojo (Abbot’s Quarters) with beautiful traditional architecture
• Hatto (Dharma Hall) featuring a stunning Cloud Dragon painting on the ceiling
• Kuri (Temple Living Quarters) with its distinctive small tower and Daruma-zu painting

b. What to See

• Explore the Sogenchi Garden, designed by Muso Soseki, with its central pond and surrounding landscape
• Start at the Kuri, where you’ll find the reception desk and the famous Daruma-zu painting
• Visit the Hojo to admire its traditional architecture and view of the garden
• Check out the Hatto to see the impressive Cloud Dragon painting on the ceiling

c. How to Get There

• To get to Tenryuji Temple, take the JR Sanin Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (South Exit). The train journey costs 240 yen and takes approximately 15 minutes. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the temple.

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11. Sagano Romantic Train

a. Overview

• The Sagano Romantic Train, also known as the Sagano Scenic Railway, is a sightseeing train in Kyoto
• It runs a 7.3-kilometer route between Saga-Arashiyama and Kameoka
• The journey takes about 25 minutes, offering stunning views of the Hozugawa River and surrounding mountains
• The train operates from March 1st to December 29th, closing in January and February
• Runs daily except Wednesdays (or Thursday if Wednesday is a holiday)

b. Best Times to Ride

• Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends
• Avoid national holidays and peak tourist seasons if possible
• Spring (late March to early April) for cherry blossoms along the route
• Autumn (mid-November to early December) for vibrant fall foliage

c. What to See During the Ride

• Admire the Hozugawa River gorge and its changing scenery
• Look out for traditional Japanese houses and temples along the way
• Keep an eye out for local wildlife, especially birds near the river
• Don’t miss the dramatic entrance and exit through mountain tunnels

d. Tips for the Best Experience

• Try to get seats in Car No. 5, the open-air wagon, for the best views (first-come, first-served basis)
• Bring a light jacket, even in summer, as it can get breezy in the open car
• Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure your preferred seats
• Consider combining your trip with a visit to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

e. Ticket Information

• Adult tickets (Age 12 & up) cost 880 yen one-way, while children’s tickets (Age 6-11) are 440 yen
• Round-trip discount available
• Reserved seating only, book in advance during peak seasons

f. How to Get There

• To get to Sagano Romantic Train, take the JR Sanin Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (South Exit). The train journey costs 240 yen and takes approximately 15 minutes. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it’s a 5-minute walk to the station for the scenic train.

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12. Nijo Castle

a. Historical Significance

• Built in 1603 as the Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu
• Served as an imperial palace before being opened to the public
• Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994
• Example of feudal era castle architecture
• Features “nightingale floors” that squeak to alert of intruders

b. What to See

• Ninomaru Palace: Showcases exquisite Momoyama-period architecture.
• Nightingale Floors: Floors that chirp when walked on, designed as a security measure.
• Karamon Gate: An ornate entrance with intricate carvings and gold leaf decorations.
• Castle defenses: Massive stone walls, moats, and watchtowers.
• Ninomaru Garden: A beautiful landscape garden adjacent to the palace.

c. Main Attractions

• Honmaru (main circle of defense): Explore the castle’s core area.
• Ninomaru (secondary circle of defense): Houses the main palace buildings.
• Wall paintings: Admire 1016 paintings designated as Important Cultural Property.
• Cherry and plum orchards: Enjoy seasonal blooms.
• Seiryuen: A half Japanese, half Western-style garden built in 1965.

d. How to Get There

• To get to Nijo Castle, take the JR Kyoto Line from Kyoto Station to Nijo Station (East Exit). The train journey costs 210 yen and takes approximately 10 minutes. From Nijo Station, it’s a 5-minute walk to the castle.
• Alternative Option: Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 9 from Kyoto Station (Stand B1) to the Nijo-jo-mae Bus Stop. The bus journey takes about 20 minutes and costs 230 yen.

13. Heian Shrine

a. Key Features

• Relatively young shrine, built in 1895
• Dedicated to the spirits of the first and last emperors who reigned from Kyoto
• Famous for its large torii gate and spacious grounds
• Represents the rebirth and cultural importance of Kyoto after the capital moved to Tokyo
• Beautiful gardens, especially during cherry blossom season

b. Main Attractions

• Huge Torii Gate: Standing at 24.4 meters tall, it’s one of the largest torii gates in Japan and a popular photo spot.
• Otenmon Gate: An impressive vermilion-colored gate designated as an Important Cultural Property. It’s the main entrance to the shrine complex.
• Daigokuden (Great Hall of State): A partial replica of the original Heian Palace, serving as the main hall of worship.
• Shin-en Garden: A sprawling 33,000 square meter garden divided into four distinct sections. Famous for its cherry blossoms, irises, and autumn foliage.
• Soryu-ro and Byakko-ro: The “Blue Dragon” and “White Tiger” towers flanking the main hall, representing two of the four celestial guardians.
• Taihei-kaku Bridge: A striking vermilion bridge in the garden that’s especially beautiful when surrounded by irises in June.

c. Garden Experience

• Sprawling garden spanning 33,000 square meters behind the main buildings
• Four distinct areas representing different historical period
• Famous for its 300 cherry trees, especially beautiful in spring
• Picturesque ponds, bridges, and seasonal flowers like irises

d. How to Get There

• To get to Heian Shrine, board the Kyoto City Bus No. 100 Kyoto Station (Stand D1) and alight at the Heian Jingu-mae Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 25 minutes. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk to the shrine.
• Alternative Option: Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 86 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) to the Heian Jingu-mae Bus Stop. This option takes about 32 minutes and costs 230 yen. From the bus stop, it’s a short walk to the shrine.

14. Nishiki Market

a. What to Expect

• A narrow, covered shopping street about 400 meters long
• Over 100 shops and stalls selling food, cookware, and local specialties
• Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen”

b. Must-Try Foods

• Tako tamago: Skewered octopus heads with quail eggs
• Soy milk doughnuts: Light and fluffy doughnuts made with soy milk
• Yuba: Tofu skin, a Kyoto delicacy
• Wagashi: Traditional Japanese sweets, perfect with tea
• Kushiage: Deep-fried skewers of various meats and vegetables
• Matcha soft serve ice cream: Creamy green tea flavored ice cream
• Tamagoyaki: Rolled omelet cooked in a special broth

c. Shopping Tips

• Bring cash, as many small stalls don’t accept cards
• Try samples before buying, many shops offer free tastings
• Look for unique Kyoto specialties like pickles and dried seafood
• Consider buying kitchen items like knives or chopsticks as souvenirs
• Remember that bargaining isn’t common in Japan, prices are usually fixed

d. Etiquette Tips

• Don’t eat while walking, it’s considered rude
• Return any trash to the stall where you bought the food
• Ask before taking photos, especially of people
• Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to show respect to shop owners

e. How to Get There

• To get to Nishiki Market, take the Karasuma Subway Line from Kyoto Station to Shijo Station (Exit 1). The subway ride costs 210 yen and takes about 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute walk to the market.
• Alternative Option: Board the Kyoto City Bus No. 7 from Kyoto Station (Stand A2) and alight at the Shijo Kawaramachi Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 15 minutes. From the bus stop, it’s a 5-minute walk to the market.

15. Sanjusangendo Temple

a. Historical Significance

• Name “Sanjusangendo” means “33 spaces between columns”, reflecting the main hall’s architecture
• Houses 1,001 statues of the Thousand-Armed Kannon, a symbol of compassion
• National Treasure status for the building and statues
• Played a role in the cultural and religious life of Kyoto for over 850 years

b. Main Attractions

• Main Hall: Japan’s longest wooden structure at 120 meters
• Central Kannon statue: A 3.35-meter tall seated figure, a national treasure
• 1000 standing Kannon statues: Arranged in 10 rows, each uniquely crafted
• 28 guardian deity statues: Featuring intense expressions and intricate details

c. Visiting Tips

• Plan for at least an hour to fully appreciate the statues and architecture
• Photography is not allowed inside the main hall

d. How to Get There

• To get to Sanjusangendo Temple, board the Kyoto City Bus No. 206 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) and alight at the Sanjusangendo-mae Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 10 minutes. From the bus stop, it’s a 5-minute walk to the temple.
• Alternative Option: Take the Kyoto City Bus No. 88 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) to the Sanjusangendo-mae Bus Stop. This option takes about 10 minutes and costs 230 yen.

16. Hanamikoji Street

a. Atmosphere and Experience

• Heart of Kyoto’s famous Gion district
• Traditional wooden machiya houses line the street
• Known for geisha and maiko sightings
• Blend of old-world charm and modern dining and shopping

b. What to See

• Admire the distinctive red latticework and wooden fences of traditional townhouses
• Visit long-established ryotei (traditional Japanese restaurants) and teahouses, some dating back to the Edo period
• Keep an eye out for maiko (apprentice geisha) or geiko (Kyoto’s term for geisha) gracefully passing by
• Explore the smaller alleys branching off from Hanamikoji for a more intimate glimpse of Gion

c. Etiquette Tips

• Respect the privacy of maiko and geiko – don’t obstruct their path or take photos without permission
• Keep noise levels down, especially in the evening when tea houses are operating
• Avoid eating while walking, as it’s considered impolite in Japan
• Be mindful of “no photography” signs in certain areas

d. How to Get There

• To get to Hanamikoji Street, board the Kyoto City Bus No. 206 from Kyoto Station (Stand D2) and alight at the Gion Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 20 minutes. From Gion, it’s a 5-minute walk to Hanamikoji Street.
• Alternative Option (Only on Sat/Sun/Holiday): Take the Limited Express Bus EX100 from Kyoto Station (Stand D1) to the Gion Bus Stop. The journey takes about 13 minutes and costs 500 yen.

17. Shinkyogoku Shopping Street

a. Shopping Experience

• Popular covered shopping arcade in central Kyoto
• Mix of traditional and modern shops
• Great for souvenirs, fashion, and local specialties
• Lively atmosphere with street food and game centers

b. Shopping Highlights

• Traditional Kyoto crafts: Look for handmade pottery, lacquerware, folding fans (sensu), and kimono fabrics
• Fashion items: Browse trendy clothing, accessories, and shoes popular among young Japanese shoppers
• Anime and manga merchandise: Find character goods, figurines, and collectibles from popular series
• Beauty products: Shop for Japanese cosmetics, skincare items, and unique face masks
• Traditional Japanese footwear: Purchase geta (wooden sandals) or zori (flat thonged sandals)
• Kyoto-specific souvenirs: Buy items like yatsuhashi (cinnamon cookies), local teas, or miniature torii gates

c. Food and Dining

• Try “Kyoto-style Ikayaki” at Teppan House TONTON. This Japanese-style pizza topped with squid is perfect as a quick snack. Try it with sauce and mayonnaise for a classic flavor.
• Sample “London-yaki” at London-ya. This soft castella cake filled with white bean paste is a popular local snack, priced at 70 yen each.
• Enjoy matcha-based Japanese sweets at Nishiki Ichiha. Their “Nishiki Ichiha Fondue” is a unique experience where you dip fruits and dango in matcha sauce.
• Visit Honke Nishio Yatsuhashi – Shinkyogoku Store for traditional Kyoto souvenirs like Yatsuhashi (cinnamon-flavored mochi with sweet bean paste).

d. How to Get There

• To get to Shinkyogoku Shopping Street, take the Karasuma Subway Line from Kyoto Station to Shijo Station (Exit 1). The subway ride costs 210 yen and takes about 5 minutes, followed by a 10-minute walk to the shopping street.
• Alternative Option: Board the Kyoto City Bus No. 7 from Kyoto Station (Stand A2) and alight at the Shijo Kawaramachi Bus Stop. The bus journey costs 230 yen and takes approximately 15 minutes. From the bus stop, it’s a 5-minute walk to the shopping street.

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