Gion Kyoto: 20 Must-See Highlights of the Geisha District

by Lucy Dayman | TRAVEL

Centuries ago, this area east of the Kamo River was nothing but a rest stop for the pilgrims on their way to Gion Shrine (modern day Yasaka Shrine). Today the Gion district of Kyoto is known for its charming, historic atmosphere and strong ties to the world of traditional Japanese arts, making a visit to this area one of the best things to do in Kyoto.

From the incomparable architecture of Hanami Lane to the bustling boutiques of Shijo Dori; from the calm serenity of Yasaka shrine and Kenninji Temple to the high-spirited celebration of Gion Festival; delve into Kyoto’s rich history by exploring 9 of our favorite destinations in Gion.

To really experience the spirit of Gion, check out 15 Best Places to Rent or Buy Kimono in Kyoto.

1. Shirakawa

Sometimes the best way to explore a city is to just dive in head-first; no plan, no itinerary, just feet on the pavement, eyes open wide and propelled by an unquenchable curiosity. A wander through the Shirakawa area (see map) is a location for this style of exploration and discovery, and it’s ideally located within the Gion district. This historic street runs parallel to Shijo Dori (another great strolling spot, see below), along with the Shirakawa Canal. Shirakawa’s roads are flanked by tall willow trees sagging under the weight of their own leaves and dotted with fancy traditional dining establishments, this is Kyoto at its most picturesque.

© Isoda Mataichiro, Shirakawa Gion, 1950s

A beautiful place to visit if you’re looking for a meal or tea with a view, most of the establishments here look out onto the canal, which is equally as stunning by night as it is by day. Sometimes it can feel almost impossible to avoid the tourist crowds in Kyoto, but thankfully the area of Shirakawa is slightly off the beaten track and much quieter than most main shopping and dining strips.

2. Hanami Lane

© Sodai Gomi / Creative Commons, Machiya in Gion

The entertainment district of Kyoto known as Gion has long been associated with geisha (or geiko, as they are known in Kyoto) and traditional Japanese arts. Hanami Lane (hanamikoji, see map) contains some of the most beautiful traditional architecture in the district. This lane stretches north and south, intersecting Kyoto’s central Shijo Dori which leads to Yasaka Shrine. Hanamikoji’s southern end is a flagstone path lined with well-preserved historic teahouses.

© Yamamoto Tomokatsu, Hanamikoji Street, 1953

Gion district owes much of its historic charms to the many antique machiya which line the streets. Machiya are wooden townhouses built for city life, with the front of the home usually sectioned off for use as a shopfront. They’re often long, narrow and built up to three stories high, possibly to evade the land taxes of the day which taxed the width of a building and not the length. These days, many machiya have been converted into art galleries, antique shops, art sellers, kimono stores and other shops selling traditional crafts. You can also find many of the Best Places to Buy Ceramics in Kyoto in this area.

3. Shijo Dori

© Calamity Sal / Creative Commons, Shijo Dori

Make the journey right into the center of Kyoto, and it’s impossible to miss Shijo Dori (see map), a shopping street dedicated to the world of high-end taste. If you wander towards the east end you’ll find that it passes through the Gion district. Like jumping back through time from the modern stylish world of Japan’s luxury-centric department stores to the old world elegant charm of Gion; it’s the best of Kyoto in one place.

As you head away from the towering Takashimaya, Daimaru, and Marui department stores and cross over the Kamo River towards Yasaka Shrine, lining the paths are countless local specialty food and craft stores, perfect for a little souvenir shopping.

Of course the west end of the avenue is full of treats too. If you’re wondering what to do outside of Gion, check out our Top 5 Things to Do in Downtown Kyoto.

4. Teahouses

If there’s one style of establishment responsible for shaping Kyoto, it would without a doubt have to be the tea house. Known in Japanese as ochaya (お茶屋), tea houses have forever been places of relaxation, contemplation and cultural appreciation. You could say they have served the role that coffee shops do today, albeit with a more tranquil atmosphere and historical reverence.

© Nishijima Katsuyuki, Junidan-ya, 1990s

There are countless teahouses in the Gion district, but Ichiriki Ochaya (see map) is arguably the most famous. It’s situated just a short stroll from Yasaka Shrine, on the corner of Shijo-Dori and Hanamikoji-Dori streets. It’s about three centuries old, and you can feel the historical importance of the place as soon as you step through the doors. During the 19th century, this was the home of Japan’s revolutionary samurai warriors known as the 47 Ronin. It’s here the warriors would meet to plan their vendetta and ultimate reshape the history of Japan forever.

5. Yasaka Shrine

© Eleonora Albasi / Creative Commons, Yasaka Shrine

Also once known as Gion Shrine, Yasaka Shrine (see map) is one of the neighborhood's most iconic destinations. Standing proudly in its lantern lined glory, it’s tucked between the Gion and Higashiyama districts, and attracts countless visitors who pass through both famous areas daily. Because it’s comprised of a number of buildings, it’s an excellent place to explore if you’re wanting to immerse yourself in the city’s spiritual history.

© Tokuriki Tomikichiro, Spring Colors at Gion, 1950

The legacy of Yasaka Shrine goes back over 1350 years and is still today one of the primary homes of the Gion Festival celebrations. Each July thousands upon thousands of revelers make their way to the grounds to admire the massive floats which call the shrine home. Throughout spring it’s also a popular cherry blossom location. Across the road from the shrine, you’ll find Maruyama Park and impressive public park that’s generally considered to be one of the best cherry blossom locations in Kansai.

6. Kenninji Temple

At the end of Hanami Lane is Kenninji Temple (see map). Kenninji is the largest Buddhist temple in Gion, and the oldest Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto. This impressive temple is actually a complex of many different halls, interspersed with traditional gardens, monuments and even a teahouse.

© Japan Objects, Dragon at Kenninji Temple

Be sure to make your way to the Dharma Hall for a glimpse of the spectacular painting of two dragons on the ceiling. This was painted by Koizumi Junsaku. Originally, the painting was commissioned by a nearby elementary school, but it was moved here in 2002 to commemorate the temple’s 800th anniversary.

7. Shinbashi Dori

© MichaelMaggs / Creative Commons, Shinbashi Dori

Here the authentic aura of Kyoto couldn't ring more true. Shinbashi Dori is a whimsical pocket of the city where warm, glowing lanterns line the streets and old traditional homes stand tall and proud, just the same as they have done for generations. For the area's best view, take a stroll along the water after dark and enjoy the glittering reflections on the river. In spring, the area is also a cherry blossom haven, which are also cleverly illuminated from below at night.

8. Tatsumi Bridge

© Kansai Photospot, Tatsumi Bridge — © Kansai Photospot, Tatsumi Bridge

Probably best known to international audiences as the bridge from the film Memoirs of a Geisha, Tatsumi Bridge is a piece of Kyoto pop culture history and a key destination for movie buffs. The bridge stretches over the Shirakawa canal, which connects to the Kamo river, and runs through the Gion district. While it may be humble in design, its legacy cannot be forgotten.

9. Gion Festival

© Patrick Vierthaler / Creative Commons, Gion Festival

If you can only visit one summer festival in Japan, be sure to make it this one. The Kyoto Gion Festival, also known as the Gion Matsuri (祇園祭), or the festival of Yasaka Shrine, is the nation’s most famous traditional celebration. This large-scale event is such a big deal it takes over the entire month of July when the city is at its hottest, and the festive atmosphere is at an all-time high. Although it does run throughout the month, there are a few festival highlights worth penciling in your calendar. July 17 is the date of the Yamaboko Junko, the event’s biggest float procession.

In anticipation of the big event, the nights before the main parade also host many street wide parties called Yoiyama (July 16), Yoiyoiyama (July 15) and Yoiyoiyoiyama (July 14). It’s worth noting that technically and somewhat ironically, these major events don’t take part within the confines of the Gion District, but are held on the other side of the Kamo River. That said, it’s so all-encompassing that it does pour out onto the Gion neighborhood. Beyond the main parades, the area is constantly buzzing throughout the month with demonstrations, street vendors and party-goers.

10. Gion Corner in Hanami-koji

Gion is of course most famous for spotting geisha, or geiko as they are known in Kyoto. While it's fine to admire them from afar, we'd always encourage visitors not to approach and let them get on with their daily lives. If you would prefer more than a fleeting glance of these icons Japanese culture in the flesh then try visiting Gion Corner. Located at the end of Hanami-koji, it's a small theater that hosts geisha performances for predominantly foreign tourists.

11. Yasui-Konpiragu

For those who feel the need to break off a bad relationship and initiate something great, something fresh, then a visit to Yasui-Konpiragu might be in order. This shrine which is particularly popular with young women, has a history that dates back to the 7th century. Its major attraction is the large ema-shaped stone that looks almost like a mystical resting bird covered in 'feathers' of white paper amulets (known as katashiro). The stone features a hole through which visitors crawl to rid themselves of the unwanted relationships.

12. Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater

Built in 1873 as a purpose-built venue designed to host an annual geisha performance known as Miyako Odori, Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater is a spectacular piece of Japanese architecture and history. The theater was initially designed as a sub-temple of Kennin-ji, known as Seijyuin Temple, but in 1873 was modified to become a training facility for song and dance; it's from here, its legacy continues. Unfortunately the performances for 2021 have been cancelled, but that’s one more thing to look forward to in 2022!

13. Marishisonten-do

Marishisonten-do is a cozy little temple that sits on the grounds of Kennin-ji, not far from other Gion landmark Miyagawa. If you were born in the years 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, or 2007, then this is the temple for you, as it’s dedicated to the boar and is thus popular for people born on the Chinese zodiac year of the boar. Throughout the temple, you'll find cute porcelains figurines of boars sold as votive offerings.

14. Lessons and Workshops in Gion

© Ryo Fujita / Creative Commons, Kyoto Yuzen Dyeing Class

There’s no better place to learn more about traditional Japanese culture than here in the Gion district. The area not only boasts one of the richest, best-preserved histories in Japan but is also home to some cultural classes designed to educate, entertain and enlighten guests from across the globe. Whether you’re wanting to try ikebana (Japanese flower arranging), wear a kimono for the first time, or pick up some culinary skills, Gion is where to go.

We’ve previously published a guide to classes in Kyoto which you can read here. In Gion specifically, one of the most popular activities to sign up for is ceramics. If you don’t have a lot of time, pop by Ruikko Kiln for a 20-minute ceramics class. If dressing up is more your style a maiko/geiko makeover may be worth considering. One of the most highly recommended experiences is held right in the centre of Gion, you can read more about it here. And if you’re looking to buy a kimono for yourself, check out the 5 Best Places to Buy Kimono in Kyoto.

15. Tatsumi Daimyojin Shrine

The Tatsumi Daimyojin Shrine is one of Kyoto's best secrets and a quaint little shine that sits rather unassumingly on the corner of one of Kyoto's backstreets. This local shrine is often frequented by neighborhood geisha on Shimbashi, plus it's easy to miss, so if you want to find it, keep an eye out.

16. Shinmonzendori

© Mariemon / Creative Commons, Shinmonzendori — © Mariemon / Creative Commons, Shinmonzendori

Known colloquially as Kyoto's Art & Antiques Street, Shinmonzen-dori is a scenic but quiet and narrow street that runs not far from Gion. The street is home to a high-density population of stores selling high-end and more everyday antiques, like lacquerware, ceramics, and furniture, like Japanese chests (tansu). This is a great spot for those on the hunt for that 'one of a kind' find. If you’re looking for ceramics and pottery, be sure to visit Old Art Kanzando. This store features a large collection of well-kept traditional homewares which are also reported to be popular with ryokan owners.

If you can’t wait to come back to Japan before you can start souvenir shopping, check out these 50 Best Japanese Souvenirs and Where to Buy Them!

17. Furumonzen

Running parallel to Shinmonzendori, Furumonzen is another quaint art and antique shopping street, lined with classic buildings that are filled to the brim with fascinating cultural artifacts like scrolls, sculptures, and teaware. However, a tip is that while foreign buyers are generally welcomed, the stores that line both streets aren't always fond of their stores being used as museums, so it's best to visit if you're actually looking to buy something.

18. Bunraku

© Moritaro Hamada, Bunraku Puppets, Maisons des Cultures du Monde

The art of the geiko is one that these days needs no introduction. But what is often overlooked by the typical tourist is much of Kyoto’s other performing arts, bunraku being one of them. Definitely, an experience saved for the most art-savvy traveler, bunraku which is also called Ningyo Joruri (人形浄瑠璃), is a unique style of puppet theater that began in the Kansai area in the 17th Century. Originating in the neighboring city of Osaka, it’s now an art expertly performed in select theaters throughout Kyoto, and definitely worth seeing if you find yourself in the city.

Like noh and kabuki, bunraku is now recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, making it an artform considered of significant cultural influence. Almost a theater-puppet hybrid performance, bunraku puppets are half the size of a person and are maneuvered by three puppeteers. The movements run in synch with a story that’s told by one single narrator, a person with an excellent knack for imitating many different voices. Gion Corner is the district's home of performing arts and one of the main places you can see bunraku performances. If you want to learn more about this unique artform, check out What is Bunraku? How to Enjoy Japanese Puppet Theater!

19. Kyoto Gion Post Office

Nowhere else in the world will you find a post office like Kyoto Gion Post Office. This quaint, baby blue, European-inspired post office stands out within the traditional Japanese-designed Gion streets, making it an ideal photo spot and fascinating look at an internationally inspired Kyoto. Inside, visitors can pick up all the souvenirs and postcards you'll need to send back home, as well as some insider tips on the best places to visit in the area.

20. Ebisu-jinja Shrine

According to Japanese legend, Ebisu is one of the nation's seven 'Lucky Gods' figures most commonly associated with the New Year (shogatsu in Japanese). However, what's unique about this figure, is that he's the only one of the seven to have originated from Japan (not India or China). This landmark is one of Japan's three most popular shrines dedicated to Ebisu, also known as the patron of business and fishing. During the Toka Ebisu Festival (held in January), business owners from across the map swarm here to pray for good fortune and business success.

Have you visited Gion? What secret spots would you recommend? Let us know in the comments below!