In the heart of Kyoto lies a vibrant and enchanting area called Gion, popularly known as one of the most famous geisha districts of Kyoto. Gion is home to shops, restaurants, and establishments where you are most likely to find a geisha of Gion hosting and serving guests. In Kyoto, they are referred to as “geiko” and “maiko.”
While Gion is a popular tourist destination, a lot of travelers tend to overlook some of its lesser-known treasures found in the nook and crannies of this entertainment district. If you’re looking to discover Gion’s spots that are off the beaten path, then continue reading to uncover the hidden gems of Gion District, Kyoto.
History of Gion
The district of Gion has been around since the Heian Period (794-1185), serving as a vibrant social venue for nobles and samurai alike. During this time, the Yasaka Shrine was built and became a popular site for worship, attracting pilgrims all over Japan.
Image Credit: GaijinPot Travel
Because of the influx of pilgrims, the residents of the area built tea houses and inns around Yasaka Shrine to accommodate those who would visit the sacred site. By the Edo Period (1603-1868), Gion evolved into a prominent entertainment district as it also became the center for geisha culture.
From the Meiji Period (1868-1912) and beyond, Gion underwent significant transformations. Transitioning from a medieval and feudal society to a more Westernized and industrialized one, Gion had to adapt to the societal changes of the era while preserving their cultural roots.
Today, Gion remains as one of the most prominent cultural hubs preserving traditional Japanese geisha culture. Visit Gion when you’re in Kyoto and find yourself immersed in the ways of the Japanese from hundreds of years back!
Getting to Gion
Gion is located around Shijo Avenue between Yasaka Shrine in the east and Kamo-gawa river in the west. You can easily access Gion from Kyoto Station.
By Bus
From Kyoto Station, you can take the Kyoto City Buses No. 86 and 206, which takes about 20 minutes to get to Gion. You will be dropped off at Hanamikoji Street. These buses operate daily.
By Train
The train is also a fast and efficient way to get to Gion, which you can access by taking the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station. Then, from Tofukuji Station, transfer to Keihan Railway which will take you to Gion-Shijo Station. Get off Gion-Shijo Station and take a three-minute walk to Hanamikoji Street.
Going Around Gion
In Gion, getting around can be easily done on foot. However, other transportation options include buses, taxis, and bicycle rentals. Kyoto City Buses No. 206 and 100 run through Gion and offer one-day bus passes for unlimited rides. Taxis are readily available around Gion but are usually expensive. Renting out bicycles is recommended for those who want to explore Gion at their own pace.
Best Time to Visit
Depending on what kind of experience you’re looking for can help you decide when it’s best to visit Gion. Each season brings out a certain charm of Gion, so here’s what to expect.
Gion in Spring means witnessing the cherry blossoms come to life in full bloom, especially in early April. Areas like Maruyama-koen Park and Kamo-gawa River are lined with cherry blossom trees that cloak the streets with pink and white petals.
Image Credit: World Smith
Spring is one of the best times to visit Gion, but it is also the peak tourist season so be prepared for crowds and long lines!
While summer in Kyoto can be hot and humid, this season is still highly recommended for visitors interested in experiencing a traditional Japanese festival.
Image Credit: GaijinPot Travel
Gion Matsuri is held in Gion throughout July, featuring a grand celebration with elaborate floats, lively street processions, and many other events that makes this one of the most famous festivals in Japan. Summer is not a peak season, so you can consider that when visiting Gion.
The season of autumn is another spectacular time to visit as autumn brings out vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow to the streets of Gion. Late November is the peak of autumn foliage, and spots like Yasaka Shrine and Kodaiji Temple are especially beautiful during this time. Although autumn is considered a peak season in Gion, it is usually less crowded compared to spring. The temperature of autumn is also pleasantly cool, making it perfect for strolls.
For a truly unique experience in Gion, visit during winter and witness breathtaking sceneries of light snowfall and Christmas lights. This season is perfect for travelers who are seeking a trip with less crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere. Since winter means the weather will be at its coldest, this is the best time to bundle up and try out Kyoto-style hot pot dishes.
What to Do in Gion
Aiwafuku Kimono Rental
We all know that when in Gion – you must wear a kimono at least once! As the geisha district of Kyoto, it’s only necessary to experience what it’s like to be a geisha of Gion. Luckily, there are a lot of Kyoto Gion kimono rental shops that tourists can avail from; one of them being Aiwafuku.
Image Credit: Aiwafuku
For 40 years, Aiwafuku has been providing excellent kimono rental services that ensure an authentic experience for visitors in Gion. One of their main features is their extensive kimono selection, with over 200 kimonos to choose from. Their kimonos also come in a wide range of sizes, accommodating various body types and sizes.
Aiwafuku offers a set of plans that you can avail of, whether you are renting as an individual, couple, or group. They also have additional services such as free luggage storage and a professional photography package. The staff of Aiwafuku are multilingual, so they are able to assist foreign tourists for a more enjoyable experience.
Image Credit: Satoshi Hirayama
Once you rent out a kimono, make the most out of it and channel your inner Geisha walking down the streets of Gion!
Location: Aiwafuku Kyoto Kimono Rental Gion Shijo
Business Hours: Open daily except on Sundays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price Range: ¥4,500 – ¥24,500
Gion Corner
For those interested in watching theater and performance shows in Kyoto, allot time in your itinerary to catch a performance in Gion Corner. This Kyoto theater showcases seven traditional performing arts on one stage; Kyomai Dance, Chanoyu, Ikebana Flower Arrangement, Koto, Bugaku Dance, Kyogen comedy, Bunraku Puppet Theater, and Noh Play.
Image Credit: Japan Objects
Each of the performances run for around 50 minutes and it is tourist-friendly since the performances are designed for international audiences. Through these performances, you will discover the essence of Japanese theater. You will be amazed at how sophisticated, colorful, and minimalist Japanese performing arts are!
Image Credit: Japan Objects
Ideally, Gion Corner is best for first-time visitors to Kyoto who want a unique introduction to the city’s culture. It’s also a pretty convenient yet exciting activity to do in Kyoto if you have limited time since the shows only last for less than an hour. Plus, you get to see maiko performances up close at a good price!
Location: Gion Corner
Business Hours: Regular performances are staged daily at 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Special performances vary depending on the season.
Price Range: ¥3,300 – ¥6,600
Japan Kanji Museum & Library
Another interesting activity to do in Gion is to drop by the Japan Kanji Museum & Library to learn more about the Japanese language. It’s a unique cultural institution dedicated to the history and evolution of kanji, the Chinese characters used in Japanese writing.
Image Credit: Tripadvisor
What makes this institution special is that it provides an engaging experience for all ages through its interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to touch and write kanji in a fun way. The museum holds an extensive collection of artifacts, sculptures, and artworks related to kanji.
Image Credit: CGTN
The museum houses the 50,000 Kanji Tower – a display of kanji characters written in different colors and sizes to represent how common these characters are in everyday usage. This spectacle stands at 7.8 meters! If you’re studying Japanese, do check out their library located on the second floor which contains an array of learning materials.
The Japan Kanji Museum and Library is an underrated tourist destination that we recommend you visit. There is so much to learn from this institution, giving you a glimpse of the intricacies and complexities of the Japanese alphabet.
Location: Japan Kanji Museum & Library
Business Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM except on Mondays
Price Range: ¥800 for Adults / ¥500 for high school and college students / ¥300 for elementary and junior high school students
What to Explore in Gion
Kodaiji Temple
Kyoto has an outstanding list of temples that you must visit. In Gion, the Kodaiji Temple is highly recommended to visit if you’re interested in learning more about Zen Buddhism in Japan. Founded in 1605, this Zen buddhist temple serves as a final resting place for Japanese military leader Toyotomi Hideyoshi and his wife Nene.
Image Credit: Camille Co
When exploring Kodaiji Temple, you will notice how richly decorated the interiors are, with the main hall once covered in lacquer and gold. The temple gardens are impressive to say the least, featuring a rock garden designed to represent the ocean. The other garden highlights a pond, man-made hills, and beautiful pine and maple trees.
Image Credit: Camille Co
Other buildings make up the area of Kodaiji Temple, including the Kaisando (Founder’s Hall), Otama-ya (Sanctuary), kasatei (Tea house), shiguretei (Tea house), omotetmon (Gate to Sanctuary), and kangetsudai (Moon Viewing Pavilion). With so much to see, you could spend hours enjoying the scenic beauty and nature of Kodaiji Temple!
Take note that one of the temple halls is currently under renovation until March 15, 2026.
Location: Kodaiji Temple
Business Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price Range: ¥600 for adults and university students / ¥250 for high school students / free for children and person with disabilities
Hanamikoji-dori Street
Hanamikoji-dori is one of the most iconic streets of Gion, known as the heart of Kyoto’s geisha culture. Machiya (traditional wooden townhouses) line both sides of the street along with restaurants, tea houses, boutique shops, and cafes. There are a bunch of activities you can try out while you’re there.
Image Credit: Japan Travel by NAVITIME
Aside from walking around Hanamikoji-dori, we recommend booking a reservation at a ryotei which is a type of traditional high-end Japanese restaurant that specializes in kaiseki (multi-course dinner) and offers an exclusive dining experience. Ryotei establishments serve refined dishes that use high-quality ingredients sourced locally, showcasing authentic Kyoto cuisine.
Image Credit: Veltra
Another activity you can do in Hanamikoji-dori is experience a traditional tea ceremony. Hanamikoji-dori has several venues that allow tourists to participate in traditional tea ceremonies that are often facilitated by geishas. Get the chance to meet real geishas in Gion up close and prepare matcha with them!
Location: Hanamikoji-dori
Business Hours: Open 24/7
Price Range: Free
Kenninji Temple
Located just south of Gion is Kenninji, one of the oldest Zen temples in Japan that holds great historical significance in Kyoto. The temple was founded in 1202 by the Buddhist monk Eisa, who was known for introducing Zen Buddhism (and green tea!) after his studies in China.
Image Credit: Japan Guide
Just like most Zen temples in Japan, Kenninji remains a center of worship and practice for Buddhists but is also open to the public to learn more about Zen practices and beliefs. Explore the temple complex, enjoy the tranquility of their gardens, and recognize the impact of Buddhism in Japanese culture.
Besides its awe-inspiring architecture, Kenninji also houses breathtaking artworks, sculptures, and paintings that commemorate the temple’s history and showcase traditional Kyoto art. In this temple, you’ll find one of Japan’s most famous artworks — the Wind and Thunder Gods by Sōtatsu!
Image Credit: Nippon
As you walk through the walls of Kenninji Temple, you’re not just visiting a historical site; you’re stepping into a sacred space that continues to preserve the traditions of Japanese Zen for centuries. Make sure you allot time to visit this temple for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Kyoto City.
Location: Kenninji Temple
Business Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Price Range: Temple grounds are free to the public, but the main buildings of the temple have an entrance fee of ¥500.
Shirakawa Lane
One of the most popular tourist activities in Kyoto is walking down the picturesque streets filled with cherry trees, flowers, and foliage. Most visitors frequent Hanamikoji Street, found in Gion Shinbashi, so you could imagine how jam-packed that area is. That’s why we recommend Shirakawa Lane, a few minutes’ walk from central Gion.
Image Credit: Ryutaro Tsukata
Shirakawa is off the beaten path, but it is definitely worth putting it on your itinerary. Since less visitors roam this street, you will more likely be able to appreciate the scenery more without the hectic crowds. Shirakawa preserves the timeless atmosphere of old Kyoto, its surroundings filled with majestic willow trees, traditional wooden townhouses, and creeks.
In Shirakawa, take your time loitering around and bask in its natural beauty. Cross a few bridges and you’ll find yourself surrounded by cosy restaurants serving authentic Kyoto cuisine. Most of the customers in these establishments are locals of the district, so this is the perfect place to learn more about what it’s like living in Kyoto.
Location: Shirakawa River
Business Hours: Open 24/7
Price Range: Free
Where to Eat in Gion
Gion Nikutei Shin
Most of the time, tourists look forward to traveling to Japan for its sushi, ramen, and other classic dishes. Now, how about its meat? Gion Nikutei Shin is one of the best restaurants in Gion Kyoto that specializes in Omi beef, one of Japan’s top wagyu varieties. Japanese beef can come in a variety of dishes, from yakiniku to sukiyaki and wagyu steak.
Image Credit: Tripadvisor
Gion Nikutei Shin offers two major courses, Yasaka and Gion. The Yasaka Course is a light course that consists of multiple dishes that are mostly made up of vegetables. The Gion Course, on the other hand, focuses more on sushi and shabu-shabu. But don’t worry – both courses have a lot of meat!
Image Credit: Tripadvisor
Not only does Gion Nikutei Shin offer delicious meat dishes, but the restaurant also provides an atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re in a traditional Japanese townhouse. The restaurant is set up kappou-style, meaning its fine dining at a counter where you can watch the chefs prepare your meals in front of you. It’s a true Kyoto dining experience!
Location: Gion Nikutei Shin
Opening Hours: From Mondays to Fridays, it’s open from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. On weekends and holidays, it’s open from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM then 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Price Range: ¥3,000 – ¥15,000
Gion Duck Noodles
It is not a trip to Japan without eating a bowl of hot ramen, so why not satisfy that craving with a twist? Tucked away in a narrow alleyway in Gion, this hidden culinary gem surpasses premiere Kyoto Gion restaurants like Gion Maruyama. This underrated restaurant is named Gion Duck Noodles, and based on the name, you’d easily guess what their specialty is.
Image Credit: 5 AM Ramen
Their trademark dish, the Duck Ramen, features a rich and flavourful broth made from free-range ducks mixed with whole wheat noodles, slices of duck meat, kaiware sprouts and a soft-boiled egg to top it off. The taste is full of umami goodness that is balanced out with a delicate and light consistency.
Image Credit: Foodle
The restaurant’s ambience is described as charming and cute, especially since the establishment can only accommodate up to ten customers at a time. The staff members are very hospitable, so expect service to be top-notch. Overall, it’s a must-visit for all tourists.
Location: Gion Duck Noodles
Business Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM
Price Range: ¥1,500 – ¥3,000
Pontocho Alley
For those seeking the energy of Japanese nightlife, then take a stroll down Pontocho Alley and discover what bars in Gion, Kyoto have in store for you. This narrow alley is hidden between the streets of Shijo-dori and Sanjo-dori, close to Kamogawa River.
Image Credit: Vrbo
Visiting Pontocho Alley means learning more about Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage through its lantern-lit alleyways, traditional wooden buildings, and traditional teahouses. The more you venture further into this dining street, you will find even more establishments that offer delicious food, drinks, and entertainment!
The beauty of Pontocho Alley is its diverse menu options, ranging from kaiseki to yakitori (grilled skewers) and other local delicacies such as sashimi and tempura. On the other hand, if you’re looking for alcoholic drinks, Pontocho Alley has a ton of traditional Japanese pubs, known as izakaya bars where you can enjoy a drink or two!
Image Credit: byFood
It’s best to experience Gion at night by visiting Pontocho Alley when the red lanterns that line up the alley glow softly and beautifully. You never know – you might spot a few geishas walking in and out of Pontocho Alley on their way to their exclusive teahouses!
Location: Pontocho
Business Hours: Varies per establishment, but most places are usually open daily from around 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
Price Range: ¥5,000 – ¥10,000
Where to Stay in Gion
Ryokan Yoshiima
If you’re looking for a ryokan in Gion district, Kyoto – Ryokan Yoshiima is highly recommended for its reasonable prices. Unlike other ryokans that are known to be famous yet pricey, Gion Yoshiima is a very traditional ryokan that is located in the heart of Gion.
Image Credit: LetsGoOut
Regarding the ryokan’s rooms and amenities, guests stay in rooms with tatami flooring, futon bedding, and low wooden tables for that authentic ryokan experience. There are private and shared baths, plus WiFi and air conditioning. The rooms look over an inner courtyard garden with a beautiful landscape that is guaranteed to enhance your stay.
Breakfast is served in your room, and their meals consist of traditional Japanese dishes with an appetizer, raw and grilled fish, tempura, rice and soup, etc. This is their way of introducing kaiseki to their guests, providing a unique dining experience in the ryokan. Avail their tea ceremony services and truly feel the traditional Kyoto energy!
Image Credit: Change C.C
Ryokan Yoshiima is an excellent base for exploring Kyoto’s major historical spots such as Yasaka Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, and Shirakawa Canal. You are most likely going to see geishas roam around the ryokan, so make sure you keep an eye on them too!
Location: Ryokan Yoshi Ima
Business Hours: Open daily with a check-in time at 4:00 PM and a check-out time at 10:00 AM
Price Range: ¥40,000 – ¥50,000 per room
Granbell Hotel Kyoto
Granbell Hotel Kyoto is one of the more recent Gion Kyoto hotels that brings a blend of traditional yet modern style. Unlike classic ryokan-style accommodations, Granbell Hotel Kyoto offers an upscale hotel experience while maintaining elements of old Kyoto.
Image Credit: agoda
The rooms are designed with a mix of Japanese and Western details, with premium suites that include open-air baths. Granbell Hotel Kyoto takes pride in their facilities, featuring an indoor onsen-style public bath that is encompassed by a Japanese garden. They also have a lounge that consists of a bar and restaurant with a kimono-inspired interior design.
Image Credit: Tripadvisor
The best part of Granbell Hotel Kyoto is that you can easily access popular tourist attractions from here. Take a short walk to must-visit destinations such as Hanamikoji Street, Kamo River, and Yamato Bridge. Granbell Hotel Kyoto is where to stay in Gion for couples, solo travelers, and those seeking a luxurious hotel experience in Kyoto.
Location: GRANBELL HOTEL KYOTO
Business Hours: Open daily with a check-in time at 4:00 PM and a check-out time at 11:00 AM
Price Range: ¥38,000 – ¥85,000 per room
Discovering the Timelessness of Gion
From underrated tourist spots to hidden restaurants and hotels, Gion has a lot to offer when it comes to highlighting the beauty of Kyoto and its culture of geishas and art. Each recommendation mentioned adds a new layer of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.
What to do in Gion is simple; explore and have fun. As you explore, let curiosity guide your journey and you’ll uncover the city’s secret spots. The streets of Gion are full of undiscovered wonders just waiting to be discovered by you!
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