Gion, also known as the geisha district, is a popular tourist spot in Kyoto City. The main attraction of this area is Hanami-koji street which still has a lot of traditional wooden houses. These houses now function as restaurants, teahouses (ocha-ya) where guests are entertained by geiko or maiko, which you'll hardly find anywhere else. A short walk through the Gion district with a glimpse of traditional Japan and a visit to a teahouse should be on the top of your list when visiting Kyoto.
- 1 min read
Kyoto's Gion District
Street art, architecture and kimonos

By Komal Khiani
Community writer

A walk through the Gion district

A glimpse of traditional Kyoto

Kimonos and shopping

Art is all around you; street art is very prominent in Kyoto.

Hanami-koji street

Wooden machiya (old merchant houses)

Traditional wooden doors

Ochaya (teahouse) where the guests at tea ceremonies are entertained by geiko and maiko

Traditional means of transport still used!

A picture with women in kimonos is very popular.

Bright and beautiful

A pose, a smile and a click!

Love the colorful kimonos? You will find kimono rental stores in Gion at affordable prices, also do not forget to visit the photo studios for some beautiful pictures as memories.
Explore nearby
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Asakusa GYUUNA Yadoki: Premium Eel & Wagyu Beef in Asakusa
Tokyo -
2
7 Must-See Temples and Shrines in Tokyo
Tokyo -
3
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
4
Explore Kujukuri, Chiba and Beyond
Chiba - Sponsored -
5
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
6
Japanese Convenience Store Coffee: Ultimate Guide
Food -
7
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
8
Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
9
One Full Day in Kamogawa From Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa
Chiba - Sponsored -
10
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Edogawa Fireworks Festival
Tokyo -
3
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
6
Summer Comiket
Tokyo -
7
September Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8
Nara Tokae Lantern Festival
Nara -
9
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
10
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto