October 2022: Please note this branch of Takamura has now permanently closed, but there is another at 2 Chome-15-15 Tenjin, Nagaokakyo, 617-0824. Please see our Southern Higashiyama page for other places to shop in the region.
Takamura is an exquisite little shop in Gion where you will find some truly remarkable bamboo creations. It’s a great place to buy a very special souvenir or gift.

Takamura bamboo tea ceremony goods – image © Chris Rowthorn
I happened upon Takamura on a random walk through Gion a few months ago. Glimpses of treasures behind the wooden slats of the façade beckoned me inside. I’m damn glad I entered. I was greeted warmly in English and then allowed to browse the small but brilliant selection of goods on display. Takamura is the retail outlet of a bamboo specialist in Nagaokakyo City, a southwestern suburb of Kyoto known for its excellent bamboo.

Takamura lacquered bamboo – image © Chris Rowthorn
Here, you will find what happens when top-quality bamboo meets the highest Japanese craftsmanship. My favorite item is an impossibly thin cup made from bamboo that seems so light that it feels that it might float away. Other offerings include tea ceremony goods made entirely of bamboo and sake decanters made of lacquered bamboo. Every single item is perfect for a memorable gift for a special friend.
Takamura is easy to spot. Look for the slatted wood over the glass windows.

Takamura exterior – image © Chris Rowthorn
Name in English:
Takamura
Name in Japanese:
篁
English address:
1-A Higashiyama Gion bldg., 238-1 Nakano-cho, Higashiyama-ku
Japanese address:
東山区中之町238-1 東山祇園ビル1-A
Opening hours:
noon-7pm
Closed Tuesday
Price:
Moderate to expensive
Nearest Transport:
5min walk from Gion-shijo Station Exit 9, Keihan line
Telephone: 531-6881
Website:
Official Website (English)
Near To Here:
Takamura is located in Kyoto’s Southern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Southern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
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