Location: Gion
Top Things to do in Gion
Things to do in Kyoto, Kinki: The Best Sights & Landmarks
The shrines and temples of Kyoto offer a rare link between modern life in the city and its very ancient past. The Shimogamo Shrine dates to the 6th century and seems suspended in time, its serenity and spiritual power still palpable. Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, then see the life-sized Thousand Armed Kannon statues of Sanjūsangen-dō. Enjoy traditional geisha performances, then savor a tranquil meal at a restaurant overlooking the Kamo River.
Restaurants in Kyoto
1. Gion
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,276 reviews
The most famous neighborhood in Kyoto is also known as the Geisha district. It is here, among the tea houses and private clubs, that you can catch a glimpse of a geisha in full dress including white makeup.
Reviewed By aejook - Seoul, South Korea
We stayed in a Ryokan in Gion n we could not be more satisfied. It is close enough to the center of the city n near Kiyomizdera, as well as many attractions such as ninenzaka, sannenzaka. Even with so many attractions near by, the streets were very quiet and clean. At night, it is very safe to walk around and I am so glad that I stayed here rather than near the busy streets or the station because Gion is close enough to bus stops, subway stops, n shopping areas.
2. Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 158 reviews
The Gion Koubu Kaburenjo (where Miyako Odori is performed) are temporary closed due to the initiation of long-term building maintenance (earthquake protection measures).
Reviewed By floridakeys2009
I believe the Gion Koby theatre is closed at the moment and for now the show took place in the Yasaka Hall. There are two shows one at 18.00 and one at 19.00. There are no reservations but the ticketing office open half an hour before and best to get there early as there are a limited number of seats. You can take photos but no flash. Al of the commentary is repeated in English. The show features a number of Japanese culture sets. Starting with a tea ceremony..... (Chado) this is followed by the music of the Koto ( a thirteen stringed instrument from about 1300 years ago) with a demonstration of Kano. A flower arrangement. Next up a Gagaku, which is an ancient court music ‘elegant’ is the description but I actually quite fierce with a masked dragon type individual and three musicians. This was followed by kyogen, an ancient comic play and despite it being played out in Japanese was actually quite funny. Then two dances from Maiko (trainee geisha) Kyomai (Kyoto style dance) our Maiko was Mame and Tama. Beautiful, the intricate movements and positions a pleasure to watch. The show ends with a puppet play, Bunraku, this is mesmerising and quite specials. The puppet is managed or played by three puppeteers in all, the main man unmasked the rest cloaked in black cloth so to blend in, the movement of the puppet is something to observe, very enthralling, it certainly draws you in. A great hour and definitely go to event in Kyoto.
3. Kennin-ji Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 991 reviews
Reviewed By caj68 - Staines, United Kingdom
I was hoping to see Geishas and Maikos and wandered along a street that ended up at this Temple. I'm glad I found it as there are some beautiful artwork especially the dragons and there was a stunning 3D blue ink water scene.
4. Shinbashi Dori
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 168 reviews
Reviewed By billkhoe
That’s what it’s been called in guidebooks and I agree. I spent time there during cherry blossom weeks and in autumn, the busiest and best time to go. I never get tired of it. Those who say so so, I challenge them to hear what’s more striking.
5. Shinmonzendori
6. Gion Shimbashi Bridge
7. Gion Shirakawa
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 47 reviews
Reviewed By DellaG_12 - Coquitlam, Canada
Anytime is a good time to stroll this area. I found that for myself, this area becomes more enchanting when the sun is setting and the lanterns are lit and you can gaze inside the teahouse/bar establishment.. A truly unique and engaging experience especially if it is not too crowded. The canal waterway adds to the romance of this walk, very much a captivating moment. A very pleasant stroll.
8. Kennin-ji Temple Honbou
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
9. Ichirikitei
10. Yasaka Shrine
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,601 reviews
Reviewed By warrenD190 - Vladivostok, Russia
Yasaka Shrine must be part of any tour of the temple and shrine jewels of Higashi-Yama. It brings with it 1350 years of Japanese History. It couples nicely with a stroll through nearby Maruyama Park and its idyllic teahouse over the pond or coming from the Gion area.
