Are you looking for things to do in Kyoto for an upcoming break? You have plenty of amazing options to consider, with numerous stunning sights to see and venues to visit. But one of the most incredible places to explore is Gion.
The Gion district in Kyoto welcomes many tourists each year, and you can easily spend hours exploring its restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. But what is Gion, Kyoto, and why is it such a fantastic district to visit?
In this article, our local Japanese experts will reveal all you need to know about Gion before you arrive.
Gion is the most well-known geisha district in Kyoto. It’s home to traditional teahouses (“ochaya”) and remarkable architecture, while the Yasaka Shrine is a common point of interest for locals and tourists alike.
This shrine serves as the center of the Gion faith, though there are various others across Japan (including the Hiromine Shrine in Hyōgo Prefecture and the Nanba Shrine in Osaka City).
Enjoying a delicious meal in Gion is one of the many exciting things to do in Kyoto, with an extensive range of local Japanese meals to try. You can also experience entertainment provided by geiko and maiko (Kyoto terms for geisha and geiko apprentices, respectively) while dining.
Visiting Gion also offers a chance to experience the rich atmosphere of Old Kyoto, with long-standing buildings and fascinating architecture to discover.
The Gion district in Kyoto dates back to the Sengoku period (the 14th and 15th centuries). Originally created to receive people visiting the nearby Yasaka Shrine, Gion gradually became recognised as one of Japan’s most popular geisha districts.
There are two geisha districts in Gion: Gion Kobu and Gion Higashi. They began as one large district, but eventually separated to create distinct areas instead. A key part of Gion’s character is the traditional wooden merchant houses, which are tall but narrow (no more than six meters in width).
Geiko and maiko regularly perform at teahouses throughout the Gion district in Kyoto. These hostesses help cultivate a warm, fun atmosphere, whether providing guests with drinks or performing classic dances.
Want to visit the Gion district in Kyoto? You can get to it in multiple ways:
・Catch the 206 bus at Kyoto Station and ride until Gion bus stop (the journey should last around 20 minutes).
・Take the train — try the Keihan Line (Gion-Shijo Station) or Hankyu Line (Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station).
A train ride may be faster than taking the bus if you’re visiting Gion from a different area of Kyoto.
Here are six places to add to your ‘to-see’ list when planning your trip to Gion, Kyoto:
Wandering Hanamikoji is one of the top things to do in Kyoto, and is among the most popular Kyoto attractions for tourists.
This famous street is lined with quaint merchant houses and teahouses, showcasing exquisite architecture from years gone by. You can eat terrific local dishes in Hanamikoji’s restaurants, and no visit would be complete without seeing the Ichiriki Chaya teahouse (which is more than 300 years old).
Venture into Shirakawa, alongside the Shirakawa Canal, to see one of the quieter areas of the Gion district in Kyoto. This is a great addition to your Kyoto itinerary if you want to get away from the crowds and enjoy a different ambience.
Shirakawa boasts gorgeous bridges, cherry trees, and cherry blossoms (during spring). You’re likely to see visitors taking snaps of the beautiful Tatsumi-bashi bridge, and you can spend time at the tranquil Tatsumi-Daimyojin shrine (created for Benzaiten, goddess of the arts and water).
As mentioned previously in this guide, Yasaka Shrine is a site of great importance in Gion, Kyoto. Add this to your list of things to do in Kyoto if you want to immerse yourself in local culture and history.
It’s believed that the Yasaka Shrine roots could reach as far back as 656, to Emperor Saimei’s reign. You’ll find it in the east end of Shijō-dōri, and its grounds include a dance stage and main hall. The Gion Matsuri festival takes place at the shrine each July, involving hundreds of dedicated participants.
Wander south from Gion and you’ll find this picturesque Zen temple. As one of the key Buddhist temples of the Rinzai Sect, Kenninji Temple was built in 1202.
While you’re free to walk a large portion of the grounds, you will need to pay to see the key buildings at the heart of the site. Once in that area, there are relaxing gardens and unforgettable artwork to enjoy.
The Minamiza Theater is a common addition to tourists’ Kyoto itinerary. This is Kyoto’s main kabuki theater, and was founded in the early 17th century (though the current building was constructed in 1929). Kabuki is a traditional form of drama featuring highly exaggerated singing and dancing.
Minamiza Theater includes a revolving stage and other mechanisms necessary for kabuki performances, and you may want to catch a live show during your visit. Check listings before you arrive, though, to avoid disappointment.
Last but by no means least on our list of things to do in Kyoto is the Gion Matsuri — Japan’s most well-known festival. The whole of July is dedicated to it, with numerous events scheduled.
If you visit Gion during the festival period, you’ll see stunning float processions and enjoy food and drink at various stalls. Events take place day and night.
Gion is a wonderful area of Kyoto for locals and travellers, with lots to see and do throughout the year.
Other article you may be interested in:
・Tips for Money in Japan and Currency Exchange Options
・Japan Travel Tips: Internet Access While Traveling in Japan
・Best Travel Tips: What to Pack for Japan & Practical Info
