Sanjo Street

Sanjo Street, a historic east-west axis of Kyoto

Sanjo-dori is one of the most important streets in Kyoto, crossing the city from east to west. Blending shops, covered arcades and old buildings, it is both a traffic axis and a place to stroll. The Kyoto audio-guided tour takes it to link the great districts of the centre, between tradition and modernity.

A major artery of the city

Sanjo Street crosses the centre of Kyoto over a great distance, from east to west. Part of its course is covered by a shopping arcade, a true institution of several hundred metres, housing shops and restaurants. Along Sanjo are also old buildings, including elegant Meiji-era brick edifices, witnesses of Japan's opening to the West.

What to see

Walking along it, you discover the covered shopping arcade, the shops and several historic buildings, including the old Yabetoku Clock Store and the SACRA Building. The street offers a fine sample of Kyoto's architecture and commercial life. It is an ideal thread to cross the centre and move from one district to another.

Practical information

Sanjo Street crosses the centre of Kyoto from east to west, reachable on foot and by public transport. Its covered arcade section is pedestrian and freely accessible; the shops each have their own hours. Walking remains the best way to enjoy the street, its arcades and its historic buildings.

What is Sanjo Street in Kyoto?

It is one of the great streets of Kyoto, crossing the city from east to west, with a covered shopping arcade and several historic buildings.

What is there to see along Sanjo Street?

The covered shopping arcade, the shops and old buildings, including the old Yabetoku Clock Store and the SACRA Building, witnesses of the Meiji era.