Higashiyama Half Day to One Day Model Course

Higashiyama, one of Kyoto leading sightseeing areas, runs from Kiyomizudera down to Gion along stone slopes lined with old townscapes, making it a delight to explore on foot. Temples, machiya townhouses and sweet shops are packed close together, so even half a day is rewarding, while a full day lets you savor it at leisure. Because there are many slopes, starting at Kiyomizudera lets you head naturally downhill. Take a relaxed walk through scenery that feels truly like Kyoto.

Course Route

1. 10:00 Visit Kiyomizudera　Begin at the hilltop temple. The view of the city and mountains from its wooden stage is breathtaking. 2. 11:00 Walk down Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka　Charming stone slopes lined with townhouses and souvenir shops. Wander down slowly, stopping along the way. 3. 11:40 See the Yasaka Pagoda (Hokanji)　A five story pagoda rising at the end of a lane, a popular spot for a classic Higashiyama photo. 4. 12:00 Lunch in the Higashiyama area　Rest with yuba, Kyoto cuisine or a machiya cafe. 5. 13:30 Drop by Kodaiji and Entokuin　Temples connected to Nene, with beautiful gardens and a quiet atmosphere. 6. 14:30 Walk Nene no Michi to Yasaka Shrine　Pass along the stone path and pray at Yasaka Shrine, long loved as the guardian shrine of Gion. 7. 15:30 Stroll Gion and Hanamikoji　Walk the atmospheric street lined with teahouses and townhouses to feel the spirit of Kyoto. 8. 16:30 Rest on Shijo Street　Enjoy sweets and souvenirs to round off the course.

Highlights

- The sweeping panorama of Kyoto city from the stage of Kiyomizudera - The old townscape of machiya houses along Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka - The symbolic figure of the Yasaka Pagoda rising at the end of a lane - The calm walking paths around Nene no Michi and Kodaiji - The distinctive mood of Hanamikoji in Gion, lined with teahouses

Access and Tips

- From Kyoto Station, take the city bus to Kiyomizu-michi or Gojozaka, then walk about 10 minutes. A taxi is also convenient. - Kiyomizudera is emptiest early in the morning, which also makes the slopes easier to photograph. - Starting at Kiyomizudera lets you head downhill, which is easier on your legs. - The total walk is about two to three kilometers. With many slopes and stone paths, comfortable shoes are best. - For a half day, go from Kiyomizudera to Yasaka Shrine. For a full day, extend into Gion and the nearby temples.

A Quick Tip

Higashiyama is a very crowded area. To avoid the crowds, visit Kiyomizudera early in the morning and work your way down toward Gion in the afternoon. In the evening Gion lights up, offering a different mood from daytime. If you have time, a walk along Hanamikoji at night is well worth it.