Exploring Kyoto’s Geisha District: GION

[Turn on CC for key facts about Gion] Welcome back to my Walking in Japan series! In this video, join me as we explore the ancient town of Gion, also known as the Geisha District of Kyoto. Our walk begins at the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched high on the eastern hills and illuminated by the golden hour. We then descend to the historic neighborhood of Gion where the narrow streets are lined with wooden houses, restaurants, teahouses and shops. Gion is the one of the last places where you can spot a real Geisha so keep your eyes peeled 🙂 Gion is a haven for food and a marvel of Architecture. It offers different vibes during the day, at night and throughout the four seasons of Japan. Whether you’re a tourist or a seeker of spiritual experiences, Gion’s blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty captivates all who visit.

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Hello there! Welcome back to another video in my Discovering Japan Series In this video, I will be showing you Kyoto’s most famous historic district known for its ancient buildings, geishas and temples: GION! My walk will begin at this exquisite Buddhist temple and one of Kyoto’s Historic Monuments called Kiyumizu-dera

The first temple of Kiyomizu-dera was founded during the Heian period in 780 AD by the shogun, Sakanoue no Tamuramaro Kiyomizu-dera is a marvel of architectural ingenuity. Despite being one of Japan’s oldest temples, it was constructed without using a single nail.

The main hall of Kiyomizu-dera boasts expansive verandas supported by tall pillars. These verandas extend over the hillside, offering visitors breathtaking views of the city below Beneath the main hall lies the Otowa Waterfall, a serene and picturesque spot.

The temple’s founding legend involves a Hosso Buddhist monk who dreamed of a golden river flowing down Mt. Otowa above Kyoto. During the Edo period, the temple’s large verandas accommodated a significant number of pilgrims. People flocked to Kiyomizu-dera seeking blessings and spiritual experiences

I visited during Winter but the temple’s surroundings come alive with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Within the temple complex, you’ll find the Jishu Shrine, dedicated to love and matchmaking. The Sanjuno-to, a three-storied pagoda, stands prominently near the main hall. Its elegant design adds to the temple’s allure

He Kiyomizu Stage, supported by massive wooden beams, is an iconic feature. During cherry blossom season, it becomes a stage for traditional performances Kiyomizu-dera also hosts special evening illuminations during certain seasons. The temple and its surroundings are bathed in soft light, creating a magical atmosphere

Whether you’re a tourist or a pilgrim, Kiyomizu-dera offers a profound spiritual experience. Exquisite! The golden hour further enhances the pagoda’s orange facade We’re now going down to the main area of Gion Welcome to the town of Gion!

Gion’s history dates back to the 8th century, when it served as a temple town for pilgrims on their way to the Gion Shrine (now known as Yasaka Shrine) The town is synonymous with geisha (or geiko in Kyoto). These refined performers have captivated patrons for centuries

The district boasts traditional wooden machiya merchant houses, preserved for decades. . Hanami Lane (hanamikoji) is a picturesque street intersecting Kyoto’s central Shijo Dori, leading to Yasaka Shrine

Gion owes much of its charm to the many antique machiya lining its streets. Originally built for city life, these wooden townhouses now house art galleries, antique shops, and kimono stores The Shirakawa area within Gion offers a quieter escape, flanked by tall willow trees and dotted with traditional dining establishments

Gion is filled with ochaya (teahouses) and restaurants where geiko and maiko entertain guests One of the best times to visit Gion is during Gion Matsuri It is one of Japan’s most famous festivals and fills the district with colorful floats, traditional music, and lively celebrations

A must see in Gion is its spiritual heart in serene Yasaka Shrine, where visitors seek blessings and tranquility Most buildings defining the narrow streets are completely made of wood, making you feel like you leaped through time Another area to visit is the Hanami Lane which features well-preserved tea-houses

Both daytime and nighttime in Gion are equally stunning and gives very different vibes. During the daytime, you appreciate the architectural details and all the street activities. And at nighttime, the places comes alive when the lanterns get lit and it is magical! So I suggest you visit on both times

Of course, you will likely encounter geiko (Kyoto’s geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) in the teahouses For those who do not know what geisha are, they female Japanese performing artists and entertainers They trained in traditional Japanese performing arts styles, such as dance, music and singing, as well as being proficient conversationalists and hosts

Their distinct appearance is characterised by long, trailing kimono, traditional hairstyles and oshiroi make-up. In fact, Gion is the only district wherein the kyo-mai style of Japanese traditional dance is taught to the Geisha

As a tourist, you can also also find kimono rentals in Gion and fulfill your Geisha fantasy for a day ..okoOh and if you’re a foodie, the streets of Gion are just lined with a wide selection of restaurants

Some of the recommended food to try include: ramen at Mushoshin, sushi at Izuju, tempura at Kyoboshi…. …okonomiyaki at Gion Tanto, teppanyaki at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya, oyakodon at Hisago and of course matcha tiramusu at Maccha House

There’s just so many things you can do and explore in Gion and it is definitely a must-see if you’re staying in Gion! Whether you’re a tourist or a seeker of spiritual experiences, Gion’s blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty captivates all who visit

I shall now let you enjoy the rest of the tour. Be sure to stay to the end to see the magnificent Hōkan-ji Temple up close