Nawate Street

Nawate Street, crafts and geishas in the heart of Gion

Nawate Street, or Nawate-dori, is a place full of life and history in the heart of the Gion district, in Kyoto. Lovers of traditional crafts, antiques and geisha culture find their happiness there. The Kyoto audio-guided tour lingers here to dive into traditional Kyoto, between old stalls and a refined atmosphere.

A street in the heart of the geisha district

Located in the historic Gion district, Nawate Street is closely linked to geisha culture and the traditional arts of Kyoto. Lined with craft shops, antique dealers and small places of character, it keeps the atmosphere of old Kyoto. It is one of those places where the ancient city is perpetuated, away from the great modern avenues.

What to see

You stroll here between craft stalls, antique shops and traditional houses, in search of a rare object or an atmosphere of the past. In the heart of Gion, the street also offers the chance to glimpse, at the end of the day, geishas or apprentice geishas heading to their appointments. A precious stop to feel the soul of traditional Kyoto.

Practical information

Nawate Street lies in the Gion district, in the centre of Kyoto, reachable on foot and by public transport. It is a public street, freely accessible, to be walked on foot and with respect for the inhabitants and the geishas, who should not be disturbed. The shops each have their own hours; the end of the day offers the finest atmosphere.

What is found on Nawate Street in Kyoto?

Traditional craft shops, antique dealers and the atmosphere of the Gion geisha district, in the heart of historic Kyoto.

Where is Nawate Street located?

In the heart of the historic Gion district, in Kyoto, among the traditional lanes linked to geisha culture.