Gion & Higashiyama
Walking Map
Discover Kyoto. Understand Its Culture.
Respect Its People.
Explore Gion and Higashiyama at your own pace with our free interactive walking map. Discover historic temples, scenic spots, and local favorites.
Tap on any location to explore photos, learn about its history, and plan your own journey through Kyoto.
*The locations on this map are temples, shrines, parks, and public spaces.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Respect geiko (Geisha) and maiko
They are on their way to work. Please do not stop, follow, touch, or ask to photograph them.
Respect private property
Please do not enter private roads. Some are marked on the Gion Manners Map below, and signs are posted locally.
Keep streets accessible
Avoid blocking pathways, gathering in front of private entrances, or disturbing local residents.
Care for the neighbourhood
Please avoid littering, respect historic buildings, and be considerate when taking photographs.
Before You Visit
For detailed information about private roads, photography restrictions, and local etiquette, we encourage you to consult the official resources.
A little consideration goes a long way toward making Gion a welcoming place for both visitors and the people who call it home.
Gion Shirakawa
A picturesque area of traditional machiya houses, willow trees, and a peaceful canal. One of Gion’s most beautiful streets.
Tatsumi Bridge
Nestled in the heart of Gion, Tatsumi Bridge is one of Kyoto’s most picturesque spots, surrounded by traditional wooden buildings and the gentle flow of the Shirakawa Canal.
Tatsumi Shrine
A small shrine in the heart of Gion Shirakawa, traditionally respected by geiko and maiko from the local district.
Hanamikoji Street
One of Gion’s most famous streets, lined with traditional wooden buildings, teahouses, and restaurants.
Kennin-ji Temple
Kyoto’s oldest Zen temple, a peaceful sanctuary located at the southern end of the famous Hanamikoji Street in Gion.
Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple
Yasaka Koshindo is a small Buddhist temple famous for its vibrant, colorful fabric charms called kukurizaru.
Entoku-in Temple
Entoku-in Temple is closely connected to Nene, the wife of the powerful samurai leader Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who spent the final 19 years of her life here.
Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
A unique shrine famous for helping people break bad ties and form better relationships.
Ninen Zaka
A beautifully preserved historic street filled with traditional buildings, small shops, cafés, and Kyoto atmosphere.
Shōren-in Temple
Shoren-in Temple is a historic Buddhist temple with strong connections to Japan’s Imperial Family.
Hokanji Temple
One of the most iconic sights in Kyoto, with its five-storey pagoda rising above the traditional streets of Higashiyama.
Nene no Michi
A quiet stone-paved street named after Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, surrounded by temples and traditional scenery.
Maruyama Park
Kyoto’s oldest public park and a popular place to relax, especially famous for its cherry blossoms in spring.
Chion in Temple
The head temple of the Jodo school of Buddhism, known for its impressive entrance gate and peaceful temple grounds.
Kiyomizu Temple
One of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu-dera is celebrated for its magnificent wooden stage and panoramic views of the city.
Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine is famous for its beautiful vermilion gates, traditional architecture, and hundreds of glowing lanterns that create a magical atmosphere after sunset.
Japan Kanji Museum & Library
Located just steps from Yasaka Shrine, this unique museum is a wonderful cultural stop for families, curious travelers, and anyone interested in Japanese language and traditions.
