Higashiyama District, a Merchant Quarter Preserved from the Edo Era
Kyoto's Higashiyama district, with its historically preserved lanes around Kiyomizu and Yasaka, is a lively area filled with souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants, galleries, and more. Yes, it is very touristy, but try not to adopt a typical tourist mindset that often applies in other countries. Everything is priced according to quality.
Guidebooks and actual guides do not clearly explain how to locate this quarter. They all seem to state 'no definite address!' because Higashiyama is the name of one of 11 in Kyoto. A ward is similar to a borough or arrondissement, a detail these sources do not make clear. After butting heads with taxi drivers and wandering for what seemed like ages, we found that the easiest way was to ask for directions to The Ryōzen Kannon, a war memorial and a giant white concrete statue of Bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara. Next to the main street entrance of the memorial, there's an uphill walking street that makes a good starting point for your walk. Refer to the map at the end of this post. (In our view, visiting the Ryōzen Kannon isn't worth it if you have limited time in a city with more interesting temples and shrines.)
Start early before the crowds arrive at Kōdai-ji. Take a taxi to The Ryōzen Kannon - walk up and around the streets of the Higashiyama district, stop for lunch wherever catches your eye (or enjoy all the street samples!). Begin with a short walk to Hokan-ji (Yasaka Pagoda), then head back uphill to Kiyomizu-dera, where you can experience the stunning evening lights.
What to get: it's the Ume Boshi store, one of the best we found across Japan. We didn't buy enough at the cheaper tourist price and found the same brand at Ginza Mitsukoshi department store, but at a higher price.
Visiting tips:
- Wear good shoes: It’s a walking district with slopes and cobblestones.
- Plan for at least half a day: It’s easy to linger over shops, food, and photo stops.
- Kimono rental: If you want to do something fun, you can rent a Kimono (his or hers) at Kyoto Kimono Rental at the beginning of the Higashiyama walk. Most Japanese women and a few men rent Kimonos to tour Kyoto and other historical cities. It is super cute and lends itself to wonderful photos! The rental house will also style your hair and accessorise. you! Returns are straightforward. (If you choose this option, also bring trainers in your bag, just in case.)
Suggested route marked in pink – top right Kiyomizu-dera. Start early to enjoy the quiet streets. Many travellers head first to Kiyomizu-dera to beat the crowds. Stroll down through the famous Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka slopes, browsing the shops and sampling treats. Pause at Kōdai-ji Temple and nearby gardens. Continue towards the Yasaka Pagoda (Hōkan-ji) — one of Kyoto’s most photogenic spots. End your walk at Yasaka Shrine.
Higashiyama District
Masuyachō 362-12 Higashiyama Ward, Kyōto Prefecture 605-0825, Japan