Timeless Charm in Gion
The enchanting allure and nearby spots
A Walk Through History & Culture
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Gion is a district that radiates the elegance and cultural richness of Japan. Gion has preserved its cultural essence – as if a window into the soul of Kyoto. It’s a place where history, culture, and tradition blend seamlessly, providing a rich tapestry of experiences for the discerning traveler.
The name “Gion” derives from Gion-sha, now known as Yasaka Shrine, which is renowned for the Gion Matsuri held every July in Kyoto. This shrine, established around 656, enshrined a deity believed to ward off epidemics. The shrine and the festival’s history are deeply intertwined with Gion’s development.
Hanami-koji Street, a charming approx. 1-kilometer lane that runs through Gion, emerged in the early Meiji period (1868-1912). Originally designed to accommodate the influx of visitors to Yasaka Shrine, the street has evolved into a bustling avenue lined with teahouses, shops, and restaurants that have preserved their traditional architecture and ambiance. In 1949, the street was widened, and in 2001, the electrical wires were buried underground and cobblestones were laid, enhancing its historical and aesthetic appeal.
As you step onto Hanami-koji Street, you are transported back in time. The cobblestone path, lined with beautifully preserved wooden buildings, evokes a sense of nostalgia and reverence for Japan’s past. These machiya houses, with their narrow facades and deep interiors, have been meticulously maintained to preserve their historical integrity. Many of these buildings house traditional tea houses, known as ochaya, where geiko and maiko entertain guests with their refined arts of music, dance, and conversation.
As the sun sets, Hanami-koji Street takes on a magical ambiance. Lanterns illuminate the wooden facades, casting a warm glow that enhances the street’s timeless beauty. An evening stroll along Hanami-koji allows visitors to soak in the serene atmosphere and perhaps encounter a geiko or maiko on their way to an engagement.
Discovering Kennin-ji Temple, the First Zen Temple in Kyoto
At the south end of the Hanami-koji Street lies Kennin-ji Temple, the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. Founded in 1202 by the monk Eisai, who introduced Zen Buddhism to Japan, Kennin-ji Temple is a place where history and spirituality converge. The temple’s serene atmosphere is complemented by its stunning architectural features and art.
One of the temple’s most striking features is the twin dragons painted on the ceiling of the Ho-do Hall, a masterpiece created in 2002 to commemorate the temple’s
800th anniversary. These dragons, swirling in the clouds, symbolize protection and the dynamic energy of the universe.
Kennin-ji’s gardens are equally enchanting. The Hojo Garden, designed in the karesansui (dry landscape) style, invites contemplation with its meticulously raked gravel and strategically placed rocks. The Cho-on-tei Garden, known for its beautiful moss and vibrant seasonal flowers, offers a contrasting yet harmonious experience.
Visitors to Kennin-ji Temple can also engage in traditional Zen practices such as zazen (seated meditation) and shakyo (sutra copying). These activities provide a unique opportunity to experience the tranquility and mindfulness central to Zen philosophy.
Adding to the temple’s allure is its fusion of old and new. The sliding doors in some of the temple buildings feature contemporary art, blending modern creativity with traditional aesthetics. This seamless integration of past and present makes Kennin-ji Temple a compelling destination for those seeking both cultural enrichment and spiritual peace.
Gion Corner provides a great opportunity to enjoy 7 traditional performing arts on one stage. The program is approx. 1 hour long making it a perfect evening activity for tourists with limited time. It includes chanoyu (the art of preparing tea), koto music, ikebana flower arrangement, bugaku dance, kyogen comedy, and Kyomai dance. Depending on the season, a scene from bunraku puppet theater or a noh play is performed. The production is perfectly suited for travelers who are interested in the time-honored performing arts of Japan.
Founded in 1865, Izawaya has walked alongside the kimono culture in the Gion district for about 160 years. This store has long been loved not only by kimono enthusiasts but also by geiko and maiko from the nearby Gion, as well as kabuki actors and their associates. Izawaya’s items combine the elegance of Kyoto’s craftsmanship, such as Nishijin weaving and Kyo-Yuzen dyeing, with the refined charm of Kyoto’s Kagai district.
Step into Man in the Moon Gion Branch, an Irish pub meticulously crafted to mirror the charming street-corner pubs of Dublin. Enjoy a diverse selection of world-class beers, including 6 on tap and various bottled options. Whisky enthusiasts can savor Japan’s finest, alongside over 60 global whiskies. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy top-notch food, like their signature Fish & Chips, and drinks while watching sports on two large TVs. Friendly English-speaking staff await you!
The Gion Kagai Art Museum offers a permanent exhibition which allows visitors to appreciate a comprehensive introduction to the Kagai culture of geiko and maiko. Visitors can watch elegant dance performances and have their photos taken with a geiko or maiko. 11:00-20:00 (last admission 19:00); Closed Wed.; Admission: ¥1,600; *Additional fees will apply for dance performances and photo sessions with a geiko or maiko.