Kyoto: Higashiyama-Gion

One of the most popular places that is frequently inquired upon by travelers is Kyoto. And why wouldn't it be? Kyoto is a place alive with people, and many places seem like you're looking at a glimpse into history. Kyoto has elements of elegance, charm, and intertwines the traditional with touches of the modern. In particular though, Gion seems to pique many people's interest. Looking at Gion, and Kyoto and Higashiyama in its entirety, it's easy to see the charm of the place.

Higashiyama

Higashiyama ward is known for its historical value as it is a well-preserved area, and is also in a convenient and great location. With many well-known landmarks like Kiyomizudera, one of Kyoto and Japan's most famous temples, and Yasaka Shrine, Higashiyama is a popular location among tourists. The charm of Higashiyama is that it looks and feels traditional. Visitors can stop by the shops and purchase things like tsukemono (Japanese pickles), traditional confectionary, ceramics, and other goods. Among the most popular locations that people like to go to is Gion.

Gion

There is a certain charm about the streets of Gion with their old-fashioned wooden buildings, machiyas, each built so close to the neighboring ones. Walking along the streets of Gion, you'll notice that most of the wooden buildings have wooden sliding doors or entryways, a marker of traditional Japanese houses. Within the buildings still have that traditional look and are usually various gift shops, snack shops, and restaurants, all with the old timey feel. This is especially true in Hanami-koji, Gion's most popular street where the street is filled with traditional restaurants that serve traditional Kyoto and Japanese cuisine such as kaiseki ryori. People also tend to frequent Shirakawa, the more scenic area in Gion where people can see enjoy the view of the adjacent canal. The restaurants and teahouses that are in this area are said to be high class, and the area is peaceful as you can enjoy food and entertainment while looking out at the canal.

One of the things that people are most excited about or interested in, in Gion, are the geishas and maikos that frequent the area. Traditionally, geishas consisted mainly of female entertainers that performed dances and played games with clients-often with men, and maikos were the geisha's apprentice. Today, much of that still holds true but geishas and maikos are more likely to entertain both male and female clients alike, depending on who requests their entertainment. People can be entertained by geishas and maikos at dining establishments and teahouses of which are often times quite pricey and hard to get into. Because of this, one of the most popular event with tourists that is more easily accessible is the entertainment at Gion corner. Gion corner is also good for people who cannot speak Japanese, as the geishas and maikos perform to a more general audience, and the performances and entertainment are not specifically tailored for people that can speak and understand the Japanese language. Instead of engaging in conversation and games, like in a traditional geisha and maiko setting, at Gion corner, the geishas and maikos entertain through performative arts like dances and the traditional performance of the tea ceremony.

In addition to the geisha and maiko shows, people in Gion can also enjoy a traditional kabuki show at the Minamiza Kabuki Theater, or visit the many shrines and temples within the nearby area. With all of its history and culture, it is no wonder people want to visit Gion.

Higashiyama in Kyoto and namely Gion, are incredibly popular places to visit that hold a lot of history and gives a glimpse into traditional Japan. Kyoto is a popular travel destination and it's easy to see why. However, it's important for you to be aware that it can get crowded with many that are eager to see the beauty of the place. It's still very much worth going to, and also experiencing the cuisine while you're at it! If you are interested in visiting these amazing places, the Golden Route Tours (available during the autumn and spring) actually takes you around Gion so you can experience a bit of what was talked about on this post for yourself.