Gion

What to do in Gion District, Kyoto

Hanami-koji Street

Hanami-koji Street, stretching from Shijo Avenue to Kenninji Temple, is the most popular spot in Gion. This vibrant area offers upscale dining experiences in preserved machiya houses turned restaurants. Try Kyoto-style kaiseki ryori (Japanese haute cuisine) and a variety of local and international dishes amidst the charming alleys.

Shirakawa area

Explore the scenic Shirakawa area in Gion, by the peaceful Shirakawa Canal next to Shijo Avenue. Willow trees, top-notch restaurants, and charming teahouses line the canal, offering a quieter vibe compared to the lively Hanami-koji Street.

Kyomai Dance

Experience the graceful Kyomai dance, a traditional Japanese art form inspired by noh theater and the imperial court. Watch maiko from Gion Kobu perform intricate movements in the elegant style of Kyoto's teahouse parlors.

Ochaya

Enjoy the exclusive delight of dining at an ochaya while maiko or geiko entertain you with conversation, drinks, games, and traditional dances. Meeting a geiko used to be rare and costly, but now, tourists with the budget can enjoy this experience through special packages offered by travel agencies and hotels. Some services are even tailored for foreign visitors without Japanese language skills.

Shijo Avenue

Shijo Avenue divides the charming Gion district and is a vibrant shopping hub. Here, you'll find a variety of stores offering local delights like sweets, pickles, and crafts.

Tips for Your Gion Visit

When is the best time to visit Gion?

The most enchanting times to visit Gion in Kyoto Prefecture are during the cherry blossom season in spring (April) and the autumn foliage season (November). These periods offer stunning natural scenery and coincide with major cultural events like the Miyako Odori and Gion Odori.

How to get to Gion?

Gion is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest train station is Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line. Additionally, several bus routes serve the area at the Gion bus stop, making it convenient to reach Gion from various parts of Kyoto.

Reaching Gion from Kyoto Station is quite straightforward. You can take bus number 206, which takes about 20 minutes and costs 230 yen. Alternatively, you can use the train and get off at Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line or Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line.

Is Gion closed to tourists?

No, Gion is not closed to tourists. Visitors are welcome to explore the beautiful streets, shops, tea houses, and cultural attractions of the Gion district in Kyoto. Enjoy the traditional Japanese architecture, savor local delicacies, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the elegant geisha and maiko while strolling through this historic neighborhood. Gion welcomes countless visitors eager to explore its rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere.