Free self-guided walk · Kyoto

Higashiyama, from Kiyomizu-dera down to Gion

A free self-guided walk from Kiyomizu-dera down the stone lanes of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, past the Yasaka Pagoda and Kodai-ji, through Maruyama Park to Yasaka Shrine and Gion.

Distance
2.6 km
Walking time
35 min
Allow
About 2.5 hours with stops
Stops
7

Open the route in Google MapsKyoto city guide

About this walk

Higashiyama, on the eastern hills of Kyoto, keeps the old city's wooden streets and temples. Walking downhill from Kiyomizu-dera to Gion is the classic route.

These lanes are among the busiest places in Japan; go early.

  • Terrain: Downhill on stone-paved lanes and steps. Steep around Kiyomizu-dera and Sannenzaka.
  • Best time: Early morning, before 8am, when the lanes are almost empty. Gion is atmospheric at dusk.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. Kiyomizu-dera

    Start at the temple with its great wooden stage over the hillside (ticket needed).

  2. Sannenzaka

    A stepped lane of old wooden shops and tea houses.

  3. Ninenzaka

    The next lane down, quieter and just as old.

  4. Yasaka Pagoda

    The five-storey pagoda of Hokan-ji, rising above the rooftops.

  5. Kodai-ji

    A Zen temple founded by the widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, with fine gardens.

  6. Maruyama Park

    Kyoto's best-known park for cherry blossom.

  7. Yasaka Shrine

    Finish at the shrine at the top of Gion's main street, lit by lanterns at night.

Tips

  • Don't photograph geiko or maiko without permission; some Gion lanes ban photography.
  • City buses to Kiyomizu-dera are crowded; walking from Gion-Shijo station is often quicker.
  • Shops on the lanes open around 9 or 10am.

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.