Explore Gion on Foot: A Kyoto Higashiyama Walking Course from Shijo Kawaramachi to Yasaka Shrine and Ishibe Koji - Japan Travel Sights

Kyoto, a globally renowned and beautiful city, is a treasure trove of attractions.

Even a few days’ visit can barely scratch the surface of its historical and modern wonders.

When planning your Kyoto trip, it’s wise to focus on specific areas. This article offers a walking tour around Gion in the Higashiyama area, including must-visit spots such as Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, and more.

Let’s embark on this elegant journey through Gion.

1. From Shijo Kawaramachi to Shijo Bridge: Enjoy the Kamo River

Shijo Kawaramachi is a bustling district known for its shopping streets and the famous Gion Matsuri. It’s also home to Kawaramachi Station, the terminus of the Hankyu Kyoto Line.

Shijo Bridge

Walking east from Shijo Kawaramachi along Shijo Street, you will encounter the Kamo River. The bridge spanning the river on Shijo Street is Shijo Bridge.

On the southwest corner before the bridge stands the historical Chinese restaurant “Tohkasaikan,” while across the bridge lies the “Minami-za” theater.

Tohkasaikan

Located at the southwest corner of Shijo Bridge, this retro building was established in 1926 and is a registered tangible cultural property.

Famous for its authentic Beijing cuisine, Tohkasaikan is also known for housing Japan’s oldest working elevator.

Tohkasaikan

• Address: 140-2 Saitocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto
• Official Site

Kamo River

Known for couples sitting at equal distances, the Kamo River is a place to relax and enjoy the scenery. In summer, the “Noryo Yuka” (riverbed seating) becomes a popular attraction, enhancing the river’s vibrancy.

Minami-za Theater

One of the oldest Kabuki theaters in Japan, Minami-za features a distinctive architectural style and offers a variety of performances. The iconic wooden signboards are a sight to behold during the year-end “Kaomise Kogyo” event.

Minami-za Theater

• Address: 198 Nakanocho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
• Official Site

2. Stroll Through Stone-Paved Streets

Between Shijo Bridge and Yasaka Shrine, you’ll find the charming stone-paved streets of Shirakawa Minami-dori to the north and Hanami-koji to the south, both epitomizing the atmosphere of Gion.

Shirakawa Minami-dori

This picturesque street runs along the Shirakawa River, lined with weeping cherry and willow trees. It’s a scenic spot with historic buildings, perfect for a leisurely walk.

Shirakawa Minami-dori

• Address: Motoyoshi-cho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
• Access: A few minutes’ walk from Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Electric Railway) or about 10 minutes from Kawaramachi Station (Hankyu Railway).

Hanami-koji Street

Hanami-koji Street is famous for its traditional tea houses and restaurants, offering a glimpse into the elegant world of Gion. It stretches from Shijo Street to Kennin-ji Temple.

Hanami-koji Street

• Address: Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

3. Yasaka Shrine

At the eastern end of Shijo Street, Yasaka Shrine, with its striking red West Tower Gate, stands as the head shrine for all Yasaka Shrines in Japan. It is renowned for the annual Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s three major festivals.

Yasaka Shrine

• Address: 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
• Official Site

4. Maruyama Park

Famous for its weeping cherry trees, Maruyama Park is a serene Japanese garden with seasonal flowers and foliage. It’s a beloved cherry blossom viewing spot in Kyoto.

Maruyama Park

• Address: Maruyamacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
• Access: A 10-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Electric Railway).
• Official Site

5. From Kodaiji Temple to Ishibe Alley

After exploring Maruyama Park, head south to Kodaiji Temple, known for its exquisite gardens and seasonal illuminations. Nearby, the narrow stone-paved Ishibe Alley offers a quaint walking experience.

Kodaiji Temple

• Address: 526 Kodaiji Shimokawaracho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
• Official Site

Ishibe Alley

This charming alley features stone paving made from old tram tracks, creating a nostalgic atmosphere perfect for a brief detour.

6. Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine

Dedicated to the loyalists of the late Edo period, including Sakamoto Ryoma, this shrine is located east of Kodaiji Temple. The nearby Ryozen Museum of History offers fascinating exhibits on this turbulent period.

Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine

• Address: 1 Ryozencho, Seikanji, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
• Official Site

7. Yasui Konpiragu Shrine

Famed for its power to sever bad relationships and bring good ones, Yasui Konpiragu Shrine features the unique “Enkiri Enmusubi Stone,” covered with countless paper amulets.

Yasui Konpiragu Shrine

• Address: 70 Benzaitencho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
• Official Site

8. Kennin-ji Temple

A head temple of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism, Kennin-ji is celebrated for its cultural treasures and serene gardens, including the famous “Fujin Raijin-zu” (Wind and Thunder Gods) screen.

Kennin-ji Temple

• Address: Komatsu-cho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
• Official Site