Gion
Cost
free
Attractions > Kyoto > Area > Kyoto East
About | Access | Hotels & Lodging | Hours & Fees
Hanamikoji Street in Gion Kyoto by 663highland (CC BY 2.5) on SnapJapan.com
About
Gion is a fascinating district or "area" in Kyoto that has been known throughout the ages as the "Entertainment District". The area is in "front" of Yasaka Shrine and was built up to accommodate the many travelers that visited the shrine. Gion is also known as the "Geisha District" most famous of the Geisha areas in Japan. The Geisha in Gion consider themselves to be the "top of the top" entertainers. However, the area has changed a bit from its Geisha "Glory Days"... although if you have a decent amount money put aside for "entertainment" you can experience a wonderful evening will a Geisha. Traditionally Gion is filled with Tea Houses, clubs, bars, betting, pachinko and other "nightlife". Much of the area is "persevered" from future development and looks exactly the same as it did when it was first built. Spend a day and even a night wandering the streets, eating lunch or dinner and don't forget to bring your camera although be polite and try to take shots without people in them (to respect the areas privacy).
Access
Closest Train Station: Gion-Shijo
Gionmachi
Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0001 Japan
Just start walking east from Gion Shijo station and wander about. One of the most famous streets is "Hanamikoji Street".
Hotels & Lodging
Recommended
Gion Hatanaka
Seikoro Ryokan
Gion Fukuzumi
The Westin Miya...
View a full list of Hotels and Lodging in or nearby Gion.
Hours & Fees
Hours: This is a Area, therefore each establishment has it's own hours but generally shops in Japan generally open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. while restaurants are generally open until 9:00 p.m. or 10:00 p.m.
Cost: Each establishment's cost is different.