Kyoto Itinerary 5: is where old-school vibes meet serene beauty

Kyoto is where old-school vibes meet serene beauty 🌸🛕. Here’s my hit-list of must-sees in the Gion/Higashiyama area, featuring stunning temples, kanji magic, and traditional performances—all totally walkable!

Top Spots to Visit in Kyoto’s Gion & Higashiyama:

1. Gion
Gion, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan (open all day, year-round)
Wander through charming streets lined with wooden machiya houses and maybe spot a Geisha. ✨ Avoid weekend crowds by going early in the morning!

2. Kenninji Temple
〒605-0811 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Komatsuchō, 584 (open daily 10:00–16:30)
Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple—don’t miss the stunning dragon ceiling painting. Shoes come off, so wear cute socks!

3. Japan Kanji Museum & Library
551 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto (open 09:30–17:00, closed Mondays)
Perfect for kanji nerds and curious minds alike—lots of hands-on exhibits and AC (so good for summer midday breaks).

4. Yasaka Shrine
625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto (open all day, year-round)
A classic Kyoto icon, magical at dawn or evening when lanterns glow. Free, peaceful, and photogenic 📸.

5. Gion Corner
570-2 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto (shows at 18:00 & 19:00 daily)
Catch a one-stop showcase of tea ceremony, dance, and theater. Book tix in advance—this mini cultural show is a timesaver if you’re short on nights!

Getting Around: All these spots are a few mins’ walk apart—no taxis needed! The Kyoto City Bus is handy if you’re staying further out, but try walking for max vibes.

Food Rec: Grab street-side matcha ice cream or sit down at ‘Gion Tanto’ (366 Yasaka Kamimachi) for homey Kyoto cuisine.

Tip: Bring cash (not all places swipe cards), and slip into convenience stores for cheap bottled tea and free Wi-Fi.

#kyotoadventures #gionwalks #templehopping #japantravel #tripdotcom