Discover the Historic Districts of Gion and Higashiyama in Kyoto
- Published on : 26/06/2026
- by : Joshua
- Youtube
Hanamikoji, the heart of the Gion district
hans-johnson https://www.flickr.com/photos/hansjohnson/16933005684/in/photolist-rNj5DS-sEk3Lv
Higashiyama district
J.R.
Handicrafts in Kyoto's Gion district.
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Kyoto's Gion Matsuri festival, a popular celebration since 863!
JNTO
In the heart of the former imperial capital, the Gion and Higashiyama districts embody the very essence of traditional Japan. From cobblestone alleys lined with machiya to ancient temples and elegant geishas, these neighborhoods invite you on a journey back in time to experience the atmosphere of traditional Japan. Discover them with Japan Experience.
Gion, the traditional heart of Kyoto
Located between Yasaka Shrine and the Kamo River, Gion is the most popular district among visitors to Kyoto. Famous for its geishas, it offers a unique glimpse into traditional Japanese culture. Along the main streets of Hanamikoji and Shinbashi-dori, you’ll find machiya (traditional wooden houses) that now house restaurants, tea houses, and various shops.
At dusk, a unique atmosphere bathed in the glow of lanterns takes over the district. With a bit of luck, this is the time of day when you might catch a glimpse of geishas and their apprentices, the maiko, moving elegantly toward the ochaya (tea houses).
Maiko in Hanamikoji
@Wikimedia Commons
Higashiyama: A Journey Back in Time
Gion is located in the Higashiyama ward, which stretches along the foothills east of Kyoto. The ward is renowned for its well-preserved historic streets, which transport visitors back to traditional Japan. Its winding, cobblestone alleys lead visitors through a maze of traditional shops, tea houses, and ancient temples.
The jewel of Higashiyama is undoubtedly Kiyomizu-dera, a Buddhist temple listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The neighborhood is brimming with temples and shrines to visit, including numerous Zen temples.
Discover Gion at night with an expert guide!
Hanamikoji Street
Contrary to what its traditional atmosphere might suggest, Hanamikoji Street is relatively new. It was established in the early Meiji era (1868–1912).
Before that time, the geisha district, or hanamachi, was located on Shijodori Street, which ran through Kyoto from east to west. It was moved to its current location following a period of political unrest brought about by the Meiji Revolution.
Hanamikoji Street is distinguished by its traditional architecture. Machiya houses line the cobblestone street, preserving the privacy of the prestigious establishments hidden within.
At dusk, the street is illuminated by lanterns, creating a uniqueness that attracts many visitors.
There are two distinct sections, separated by the central Shijo Avenue. The southern section embodies most of the traditional atmosphere, while the northern section has a more contemporary feel.
Nighttime Illumination in Hanamikoji
@Christian Kaden on Flickr, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Yasaka Shrine
In the heart of Gion stands Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most important and oldest places of worship.
Founded more than 1,300 years ago, it is dedicated to several deities associated with protection against disease and natural disasters
The shrine is particularly well known as the focal point of the Gion Matsuri, one of the most famous festivals in Japan, held every year in July.
With its red gate, main hall, and hundreds of lanterns lit up at dusk, Yasaka-jinja is the symbol of the neighborhood.
Just behind it lies Maruyama Park, one of the must-see spots for enjoying the cherry blossoms in Kyoto.
Yasaka Shrine at Night
@Dana Andreea Gheorghe on Flickr
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Visiting Gion
Among the spiritual sites is Kennin-ji Temple, considered the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, which captivates visitors with its gardens and the dragon painted on its ceiling. Just a few minutes’ walk away, Kōdai-ji features some of the city’s most beautiful sights, as well as a bamboo grove.
History buffs will enjoy a visit to Ryozen Kannon, a temple and memorial dedicated to the victims of World War II. Dominated by an impressive 24-meter-tall statue of Kannon (a Buddhist figure associated with compassion), the temple offers a peaceful atmosphere conducive to reflection.
For visitors seeking cultural activities, the neighborhood is home to the Kanzekaikan, one of the Noh theaters in the country. Finally, Gion is also renowned for its restaurants serving traditional kaiseki cuisine in high-end gourmet establishments.
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