Gion District

The Gion district, the traditional Kyoto of the geishas

Gion is certainly the most emblematic district of Kyoto. Here, the modern city gives way to a fabric of lanes, wooden houses and still-living traditions, including that of the geishas. The Kyoto audio-guided tour lingers here to dive into the heart of the Japan of old, where the former capital reveals its soul.

The historic heart of the traditional arts

Located in the heart of Kyoto, near Shijo Avenue, Gion is one of the most famous historic districts of the city, in the Higashiyama ward. It developed around Yasaka Shrine and became the district of tea houses, geishas and traditional arts. Its preserved lanes, its machiya and its lanterns make it a living testimony of the Japan of old.

What to see

To stroll in Gion is to chain discoveries: the lanes of Shinbashi and Hanami-koji, the Shirakawa canal, the tea houses and, sometimes, the fleeting appearance of a geisha at the end of the day. The district blends shrines, theatres and traditional restaurants. It is the best place to feel the atmosphere of historic Kyoto, to be walked slowly and with respect.

Practical information

The Gion district lies in the centre of Kyoto, in the Higashiyama ward, near Shijo Avenue, reachable on foot and by public transport. Its streets are freely accessible, to be walked on foot and with respect for the inhabitants and the geishas. Very busy, it is best savoured in the early morning or at the end of the day, in calm.

Why is the Gion district famous?

It is the most emblematic district of Kyoto, famous for its traditional lanes, its tea houses, its machiya and geisha culture, around Yasaka Shrine.

Can you see geishas in Gion?

It is sometimes possible to glimpse geishas or apprentice geishas at the end of the day in the lanes of Gion; they should, however, be observed with discretion and respect.