Exploring Gion: Must-Visit Streets for Shopping and Dining Delights

Gion is the area in the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto, where you can feel the atmosphere of the most ancient city.

Gion refers to the area from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Railway to Yasaka Shrine, along Shijo-dori Street from north to south.

The charm of this area is that you can experience a wide variety of atmosphere, from the tea houses with maiko/geishas, to the ancient shrines lining the Shirakawa river.

In this article, I, a Kyoto resident, will tell you about the famous streets in Gion.

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Shijo-dori is full of matcha sweets stores!

Shijo Street, the main street of Gion, is also known as Gion Shopping Street.

The stores have covered arcades in front of them, making it possible to enjoy shopping and cafes even on rainy days and attracting many tourists.

When you get off the Keihan train at Gion-Shijo Station, you will first see the Minami-za Theater.

The Minami-za is a theater where you can see Kabuki performances, amongst other shows. Every December, you can see a Kabuki performance called “Kaomise,” in which gorgeous actors perform.

It is also a convenient spot for a rendezvous.

Walking east along Shijo street, you will find matcha sweets stores run by long-established Japanese tea stores.

You can enjoy matcha sweets such as parfaits and soft-serve ice cream made with matcha green tea in the store or take them out. It is also recommended to buy cakes and sweets using matcha as souvenirs.

Stores where visitors can purchase souvenirs are also lined up.

We recommend that you allow plenty of time for strolling around the area, as you can purchase typical Japanese souvenirs such as the above sensu fans, bags, and tenugui hand towels.

In addition, there are also stores where you can enjoy Japanese-style gourmet foods such as soba noodles, tempura, and eel.

There are also stores run by Kyoto's long-established pickle shops, which are perfect for enjoying lunch. You can find a variety of stores just by walking around, so please stroll around at your leisure!

You may be able to meet maiko and geiko on Hanamikoji Street!

Walking along Shijo Street, you will come across “Hanamikoji” running north to south.

Hanamikoji is a gorgeous street lined with teahouses where maiko and geiko entertain their customers.

The stores are built in wooden machiya houses, a type of wooden structure unique to Kyoto, and are lined with red lanterns.

It is the most ancient and charming street in Gion, and you may even see maiko and geiko.

The narrow alleys are especially emotional, and you will feel as if you have wandered into a different world just by walking through them.

In this area, there are signs posted regarding manners. One of the most common violations of manners is to take pictures of maiko and geiko as if you are chasing them around. Please enjoy sightseeing with good manners and respect.

The area is also dotted with numerous restaurants. In particular, the alleyways are home to Michelin-starred restaurants and other upscale eateries. Reservations are required for popular restaurants, so it is recommended to find a restaurant of your choice and make a reservation in advance.

In addition, there is the “Gion Koubu Kaburenjo” where maiko and geiko dance, the “Gion Corner” where you can easily enjoy traditional performing arts in an hour, and the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, Kenninji.

Gion Shirakawa is a great spot for taking pictures!

The Shirakawa River runs along the north side of Shijo Street.

Gion Shirakawa River, which runs along the river, is an area with a beautiful contrast between the green of the trees and the vermilion-lacquered tamagaki (stone wall), creating a charming atmosphere. There are spots where you can't help but want to take pictures, and photos and videos are often uploaded on social media.

In particular, the Tatsumi Bridge and the Tatsumi Shrine area add to the atmosphere with the view of the river from the bridge and the vermilion-lacquered shrine. It is recommended for a leisurely stroll.

The Gion-Shirakawa area is also a great place to eat, with a wide variety of restaurants including casual izakaya, udon and gyoza restaurants, sushi restaurants, Chinese restaurants, and fine kaiseki restaurants.

Shinmonzen Dori and Furumonzen Dori are lined with first-class antique stores!

A little north of the Gion-Shirakawa area is a high-end antique district. The Shinmonzen-dori and Furumonzen-dori areas are the most exclusive antique streets in Japan.

Many of the stores are among the finest in Japan and are not usually accessible, but it is nice to take a stroll while admiring the beautiful vessels and other items in the show windows. The atmosphere here is a little different from other streets, with a sense of serenity and refinement.

Take a stroll through the streets of Gion, which are full of character!

As you can see, each street in Kyoto's Gion has its own unique character.

Shijo Street where you can enjoy green tea sweets and shopping, Hanamikoji lined with teahouses (お茶屋 = "ochaya") where maiko and geiko entertain you, and Gion Shirakawa where you can enjoy the Gion River.

Please enjoy the elegant Gion to the fullest while paying attention to manners!