Higashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photogenic areas, featuring Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden townhouses. The district exudes old Kyoto charm, where geisha culture still thrives and seasonal beauty—especially cherry blossoms and autumn foliage—draws visitors year-round.
Higashiyama is a famous historic district in Kyoto, known for its traditional streets, temples, and cultural landmarks. It offers an immersive experience of Kyoto's old town charm and beautiful seasonal scenery.
Maruyama Park is one of Kyoto’s most famous and beloved public parks, located in the Higashiyama area. It is especially renowned for its spectacular cherry blossom trees that attract thousands of visitors every spring for hanami, the traditional Japanese flower viewing. Besides cherry blossoms, the park offers a peaceful natural setting with walking paths, ponds, and seasonal festivals, making it a must-visit spot for both locals and tourists seeking to enjoy the beauty of Kyoto’s changing seasons.
Yasaka refers to the area surrounding Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most iconic Shinto shrines and the spiritual heart of the Gion district. The area is rich in history, featuring traditional architecture, lantern-lit streets, and access to Maruyama Park. Yasaka is also central to the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most famous festivals. A visit here offers deep cultural immersion and sacred Kyoto charm.
Gion is Kyoto’s most iconic geisha district, where cobblestone streets, machiya townhouses, and traditional teahouses preserve the refined elegance of old Kyoto. In the evening, you may catch a glimpse of a maiko or geiko heading to an engagement. Landmarks like Yasaka Shrine, Hanamikoji Street, and Gion Corner showcase Kyoto’s living traditions. A must-visit for those wanting to experience the soul of classical Japan.
Kodaiji Temple is a historic and culturally significant temple located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. Established in the early 1600s, it is celebrated for its stunning traditional Japanese gardens, elegant architecture, and breathtaking seasonal illumination events, especially in autumn and spring. The temple complex provides visitors with a serene atmosphere to appreciate classical Japanese aesthetics, including carefully maintained tea houses and stone pathways, making it a highlight of any Kyoto visit.
The Sanjo area in Kyoto is a vibrant district that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern attractions. Key highlights include the Sanjo Bridge, a historic bridge that served as the final point of the Tōkaidō during the Edo period; the Sanjo-kai Shotengai, a shopping arcade filled with traditional shops and local eateries; and the Kyoto Cultural Museum, showcasing the city's rich heritage. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Pontocho Alley, known for its traditional teahouses and geisha performances, and the Kamogawa River, offering scenic views and pleasant walks.