Southern Higashiyama is the most important sightseeing district in Kyoto. It contains everything from dazzling temples, to preserved lanes, to the city’s main geisha district. If you have only one day in Kyoto, this is the place to visit!
Kiyomizu Temple
Southern Higashiyama Area Description
The Southern Higashiyama runs along the base of the Higashiyama (Eastern Mountains) from Shichijo-dori in the south to Sanjo-dori in the north. The mountains form its eastern boundary and the Kamo-gawa forms its western boundary. At it’s northwestern end, you’ll find Gion, the city’s traditional geisha district.
Recommended Hotels In Southern Higashiyama
Southern Higashiyama Highlights
Top Activities In Kyoto
Things To Do And See In Southern Higashiyama
- Sanjusangen-do Temple
With over 1000 images of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, Sanjusangen-do Temple is one the most arresting sights in Kyoto. It’s sort of like an angelic terracotta army. - The Kyoto National Museum
The Kyoto National Museum is the best museum in Kyoto. The permanent collection is mediocre and indifferently displayed, but the special exhibits regularly held here are often superb.
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of Kyoto’s must-see attractions. It’s a bustling riot of commerce and schlock, but it’s a lot of fun, especially for the kids. - Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka Preserved Districts
Two of Kyoto’s most attractive streets are Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka, a pair of gently sloping lanes that lead down from Kiyomizu-dera Temple toward Nene-no-Michi Lane.
- Ishibei-koji Lane
Hands-down the single most beautiful lane in all of Kyoto, Ishibei-koji Lane is like entering another world. - Nene-no-Michi Lane
Nene-no-Michi Lane is a wonderful flagstone walkway that links some of the most important sights in the Southern Higashiyama area. - Kodai-ji Temple
Often overlooked by tourists, Kodai-ji Temple is one of the finest temples in the Southern Higashiyama Area. - Entoku-in Temple
Yet another overlooked gem in Southern Higashiyama, Entoku-in Temple is a delightful collection of priceless art treasures and a stunning karesansui (dry stone) garden. - Yasaka-no-to Pagoda
A long pagoda rising overlooking the floating world of Gion below, Yasaka-no-to Pagoda is a lovely sight by day or night. - Yasaka-jinja Shrine
One of Kyoto’s most important shrines, Yasaka-jinja Shrine overlooks the Gion entertainment district and sponsors the city’s biggest annual festival: the Gion Matsuri. - Gion
Kyoto’s traditional entertainment district, where geisha, gangsters and gawkers prowl, is one of the most interesting places for an after-dinner stroll. - Hiyoshido Traditional Massage
Hiyoshido offers traditional Japanese and other forms of massage in a beautiful old Japanese house in Gion. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day of touring Kyoto. - Yasui-kompira-gu Shrine
This odd little shrine on the edge of Gion contains one of the most peculiar objects we’ve encountered anywhere in Japan. - Kennin-ji Temple
The oldest Zen temple in Kyoto, Kennin-ji Temple is an oasis of calm on the edge of Gion with a superb Zen garden. - Maruyama-koen Park
An oasis of green amid the Southern Higashiyama Sightseeing District, Maruyama-koen Park is the perfect spot for a rest or picnic while exploring the area.
- Chion-in Temple
Sometimes called the Vatican of Pure Land Buddhism, this vast temple is one of the most and popular temples in the city. It’s highly recommended. - Shoren-in Temple
One of our all-time favorite temples in Kyoto, Shoren-in is bypassed by almost all tourists and bus groups. - Shoren-in Shogunzuka Seiryuden Viewpoint
For an incredible view of Kyoto, head up to the Shoren-in Shogunzuka Seiryuden viewpoint. This new viewpoint offers a commanding view over the whole city. - Getting made up as a geisha (maiko henshin)
Playing geisha for a day is a fantasy shared by both Japanese and foreign ladies and Maika, in the Miyagawa Geisha district, is one of the best places to do it.
- Shimbashi geisha district in the evening
Shimbashi is single most attractive street in all of Asia, particularly in the evening. When the cherry blossoms are in bloom here, it’s almost too beautiful for words. - Hanamikoji geisha district in the evening
The best place to see geisha in Kyoto is Hanami-koji on the south side of Shijo-dori. A stroll through in the evening will usually yield at least one sighting. - Minamiza Kabuki Theatre
Few theatrical spectacles are as visually stimulating and just plain bizarre as kabuki, and Kyoto’s Minamiza Kabuki Theatre is the best place in Japan to see kabuki.
Kyoto Walking Tour: Classic Southern Higashiyama
Take in some of Kyoto’s most famous sights and some of its secret spots too, all in one four hour private Kyoto walking tour.
(Four hours duration. Price: 25,000 Yen)
More Details About The Tour
Places To Eat In Southern Higashiyama
- Oagari
Located a hop and skip south of Yasaka Shrine, Oagari in the Gion district might seem touristy, but it’s no run-of-the-mill okonomiyaki restaurant. Top-notch cooking at incredibly reasonable prices, accompanied by a solid selection of sake – what’s not to like? - Tempura Endo Yasaka
How many tempura places can you name that have been in business for more than 100 years? Tempura Endo Yasaka has been deep-frying food with flair for the last century – with tempura this good, it’s no wonder they’re still around. - Azuma Sushi
Eating sushi at a local neighbourhood joint doesn’t get better than this. For unpretentious, delicious sushi that won’t break the bank, head over to Azuma Sushi in Higashiyama. - Gion Uokeya U
Forget eel rice bowls – have you ever had an eel rice bucket? At 1-starred Gion Uokeya U, their signature dish is a wooden bucket filled with rice and eels. What an experience!
Kasagiya
- Kasagiya
The most atmospheric little tea house in Kyoto, we never pass this way without stopping in for a hot cup of matcha tea and a sweet. - Kikunoi Main Restaurant
World-famous kaiseki restaurant Kikunoi in Southern Higashiyama is THE mecca for gourmands looking for some of the best fine dining in the city. - Kikunoi Roan
The sister restaurant to Kikunoi in Southern Higashiyama, 2-star Kikunoi Roan in the heart of Gion is a more unorthodox but no less delicious take on classic kaiseki. Happily, it is also the more affordable of the two! - % Arabica Higashiyama
This super-stylish coffee shop serves some of the best coffee in Kyoto and occupies a prime position on a lovely lane leading up to Yasaka-no-To Pagoda. - Gyoza Hohei
Located smack in the middle of the geisha district of Gion, Gyoza Hohei serves fabulously garlicky dumplings to fuel you up after a long day of sightseeing. As a bonus, you might even see a local maiko or geiko enjoying a plate of gyoza, too. - Hisago
Hisago is a good restaurant near Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kodai-ji Temple and Ishibei-koji. It’s not much to look at, but the noodles and rice dishes are tasty.
Kagizen Yoshifusa
- Kagizen Yoshifusa
Kagizen Yoshifusa is a traditional sweet shop in the heart of Gion with a serene tea room where you can enjoy traditional sweets with cups of thick matcha tea. - Wabiya Korekido
Wabiya Korekido is a restaurant in Gion that serves top-notch oyakodon (chicken-and-egg rice bowl) at lunch and fabulous yakitori at dinner. If you can’t decide what time to head there, don’t choose – just go twice. - Senmonten
This hole-in-the-wall shop in Gion sells only two things: gyoza (Chinese friend dumplings) and beer. The gyoza are the best in town. - Okaru
Okaru is a casual restaurant in the heart of Gion that serves hearty curry udon and lots more besides. - Yagura
For a good bowl of noodles while exploring Gion or before taking in some kabuki at nearby Minamiza, Yagura is the perfect choice. - Yasukawa
For a taste of a local’s night out, venture into Yasukawa – an izakaya in Gion serving well-executed classic Kyoto-style dishes. Go with an open mind and a reasonably generous budget. - Sushi-kappo Nakaichi
For elegant sushi, sashimi and a variety of accompanying dishes, Sushi-kappo Nakaichi is one of Kyoto’s better choices.
Shopping In Southern Higashiyama
- Yaya
For used kimono, yukata, obi and kimono accessories, this friendly little shop in Gion is a great place to look. Prices are reasonable and the selection is great.
Recommended Luxury Hotels In Southern Higashiyama
Best Luxury Hotels In Southern Higashiyama
- Four Seasons Kyoto
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A truly sublime luxury hotel in the Southern Higashiyama area of Kyoto, the Four Seasons Kyoto is a top choice for a relaxing Kyoto stay. - Hyatt Regency Kyoto
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The Hyatt Regency Kyoto offers excellent, spacious rooms, great on-site restaurants, attentive and polished service and a convenient location. It’s a top choice for a relaxing stay in Kyoto. It’s highly recommended. - Higashiyama Shikikaboku
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Higashiyama Shikikaboku is one of our favorite boutique hotels in Kyoto. With only eight rooms, attentive personal service and a great location within walking distance of downtown and the sights, it’s pretty much perfect. - Hotel The Celestine Kyoto Gion
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Opened in 2017, the Celestine Kyoto Gion is a brilliant new hotel in a fantastic Gion/Southern Higashiyama location. - Saka Hotel Kyoto
(View on Booking.com or Agoda.com.)
The Saka Hotel is a great new hotel located in the Southern Higashiyama sightseeing district. It’s a Japanese-style hotel that feels almost like a ryokan. The rooms are spacious and the baths are fantastic, some on private verandas. - Sowaka
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The Sowaka is a ryokan-style hotel right in the heart of the Southern Higashiyama sightseeing district. It’s a good choice for those who want a great location and a change from ordinary hotels. - Dhawa Yura Kyoto
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This stylish new hotel is just across the Sanjo Bridge from downtown, meaning it’s super convenient to shopping and dining, but also close to many sights. It’s got some serious boutique style and a good restaurant. - Westin Miyako Kyoto Hotel
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An excellent hotel in a commanding location, near the subway and the main Higashiyama sights. - Hotel Mume
An intimate boutique hotel on an attractive street in Gion, Mume hits all the right notes.
Recommended Vacation Rentals In Southern Higashiyama
Best Kyoto Vacation Rentals In Southern Higashiyama
- Amber House
Amber House in Gion is a magical traditional Japanese house on a quite street just steps away from the city’s most important sightseeing district. - Indigo House Gion
Indigo House Gion is a former geisha house that has been converted into two sublime vacation rental properties. - The Gion House
The Gion House is actually a lovely old Gion house that’s been subdivided into two units, each of which is impeccably decorated. - The Old Modern
The Old Modern is a superbly restored residence that blends European influences with traditional Japanese design. - The Gion Apartments
The Gion Apartments are several well-maintained short-lease self-catering apartments in the Miyagawa-cho geisha district. - Jeugiya
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Jeugiya is a magical traditional Japanese home in one of the most atmospheric neighborhoods in Kyoto. With warm service and all the amenities you need, it’s a brilliant place to stay in Kyoto. - Azzurro Elephante
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This two-bedroom semi-traditional machiya is steps from some of the most incredible sights in southern Higashiyama. It’s a great place for those in search of a vacation rental with local style.
Recommended Ryokan In Southern Higashiyama
Best Ryokan In Southern Higashiyama
- Seikoro
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Seikoro is a beautifully decorated classic ryokan within relatively easy walking distance of both downtown and the Higashiyama sightseeing district. - Ishibeikoji Muan
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Located on the most beautiful lane in all of Kyoto, this charming little ryokan is an incredible find. - Yuzuya Ryokan
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A superb ryokan right next to Yasaka-jina Shrine, in the very heart of the southern Higashiyama district. - Ryokan Motonago
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A wonderful ryokan at home with foreign guests, just steps from southern Higashiyama’s most important sights. - Gion Misen
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Gion Misen is a ryokan-style hotel on an atmospheric street on the edge of Gion, within easy walk of downtown. The rates are reasonable, the rooms are pleasant and the staff are friendly. - Uemura
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Located on the lovely pedestrian-only lane of Ishibei-koji, Uemura is a simple, welcoming and good value ryokan in fantastic location. - Shiraume
Located right on the Shirakawa Canal in Shimbashi, Kyoto’s most beautiful street, Shiraume is a fine ryokan right in the heart of old Gion. - Gion Yoshiima
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On a lovely street in the heart of Gion, Yoshiima is a reasonably priced and very traditional ryokan. It’s a good spot for your first ryokan experience. Sadly, children aren’t allowed. - Kyoto Yoshimizu
For those who want to stay amid nature without leaving Kyoto City, Kyoto Yoshimizu is the ideal ryokan choice. - Ryokan Inakatei
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Inakatei is a simple traditional ryokan located on the most atmospheric pedestrian-only lane in Kyoto. The rates are far below what you’d expect given the location and beautiful old structure.
Recommended Mid-Range Hotels In Southern Higashiyama
Best Mid-Range Hotels And Ryokan In Southern Higashiyama
- Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
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A mid-sized hotel with a great restaurant, on-site bakery and rooftop bar/lounge a stone’s throw from the Southern Higashiyama sightseeing district, the Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto is an excellent value and a compelling choice in this category. - Hotel Alza Kyoto
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The Hotel Alza Kyoto is a new Japanese-style hotel in a superb location right on the doorstep of Gion and downtown. It’s a great choice in the upper mid-range price bracket. - Hana Touro Hotel Gion
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A short walk from the most traditional part of Gion, this superb little boutique hotel is one of the best midrange values in the city. - Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano
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Located right in the heart of Gion, just steps from Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto Ryokan Gion Sano is perfect for sightseeing in the city. - Hanakiya Ryokan
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Just downhill from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Hanakiya is a simple ryokan used to foreign guests. - Tanakaya Ryokan
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Tanakaya Ryokan is a simple ryokan with reasonable rates in the Miyagawa geisha district. - Hotel Sasarindou
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Located in the heart of Gion, the Hotel Sasarindou is convenient to both sights and transport. - Gojo Guesthouse
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Gojo Guesthouse is a simple inexpensive ryokan-style guesthouse just down the hill from the Southern Higashiyama sightseeing district. - Sakara Kyoto Guesthouse
A family-friendly guesthouse within walking distance of downtown, Sakara Kyoto is a brilliant spot who are looking for a self-contained apartment. - Hotel Sunline Kyoto Gion Shijo
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The Hotel Sunline Kyoto Gion Shijo is right in the heart of the Gion and southern Higashiyama sightseeing district. - See more Southern Higashiyama hotels on Booking.com or Agoda.com along with a useful location map.
Recommended Budget Hotels In Southern Higashiyama
Best Budget Hotels, Ryokan And Guesthouses In Southern Higashiyama
- RC Hotel Kyoto Yasaka
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RC Hotel Kyoto Yasaka isn’t your run-of-the-mill, conventionally designed hotel. This boutique hotel right in the heart of Higashiyama is a real hidden gem with personal touches galore. The sunsets from the roof terrace are stunning too! - Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto Kiyomizu-Gojo
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Located within easy walking distance of the Southern Higashiyama sightseeing district, the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto Kiyomizu-Gojo is one of the best bargains in Kyoto. For less than the cost of a dinner back home, you get a clean, comfortable room in a nice, well-run hotel. - APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent
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Right in the heart of Gion, the APA Hotel Kyoto Gion Excellent is one of the only budget hotels in southern Higashiyama. It’s a standard business hotel and the rates and location are the main selling points here. - Note: Southern Higashiyama’s status as Kyoto’s most important sightseeing district means that cheap accommodation is very scarce. You’d be better off looking in Downtown Kyoto or in the Kyoto Station Area for good cheap options not too far from Higashiyama.
Finlandia Bar
Nightlife In Southern Higashiyama
- Gion Finlandia Bar
A Finnish-themed bar in a former geisha house, Gion Finlandia Bar is a very stylish place for a drink in Gion.
Getting To Southern Higashiyama
- By subway from Kyoto Station: Take the Karasuma Subway Line to Karasuma-Oike Station and change to the Tozai Subway line heading east. Get off at Higashiyama Station and walk south.
- By bus from Kyoto Station: Take Kyoto City Bus #100 or 206.
- On foot from Kyoto Station: Walk east to the Kama-gawa River, then walk north until Gojo-dori and follow Gojo-dori uphill (east toward the mountains).
- By Hankyu Line (from Osaka etc): Get off at Kawaramachi Station.
- By Keihan Line (from Osaka etc): Get off at Gion Shijo or Sanjo Keihan Stations.
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
