Sannenzaka: A Journey Through Time in Kyoto
Step back in time on Kyoto's Sannenzaka: a charming, stone-paved street filled with traditional crafts, teahouses, and historic architecture.
Sannenzaka is a beautifully preserved, stone-paved pedestrian street in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. Lined with traditional wooden buildings housing teahouses, souvenir shops, and restaurants, it provides a nostalgic journey back to the Edo and Taisho eras.
A brief summary to Sannenzaka
- 2 Chome-211 Kiyomizu, Kyoto, 2 Chome Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, JP
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the serene atmosphere before the shops get busy.
- Try local delicacies like Yatsuhashi (cinnamon flavored mochi) and other Kyoto sweets from the various shops lining the street.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the stone-paved streets can be uneven and involve some walking uphill.
- Rent a kimono for a more immersive experience and take memorable photos against the traditional backdrop.
- Check out Seiryuen, a commercial complex on Sannenzaka, which houses famous Kyoto stores in a traditional setting, complete with a Japanese garden.
Getting There
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Walking
From Kiyomizu-dera Temple, descend towards the main gate and follow the signs for Sannenzaka. The path is a short walk downhill, approximately 5 minutes, and is well-marked with traditional lanterns and signposts. Be mindful of the stone steps, which can be slippery.
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus number 206 to Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stops. From either bus stop, it's a 5-10 minute walk to Sannenzaka. The flat fare for Kyoto City Bus is ¥230 for adults and ¥120 for children within the central area. Alternatively, from Hankyu Kawaramachi Station or Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, take bus 207 eastward to Shimizu, then walk.
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Taxi
From Kyoto Station, a taxi ride to Sannenzaka takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic. The taxi fare starts at ¥490 for the first 1.5km, with additional charges of ¥320 per kilometer thereafter. Expect to pay around ¥1,500-¥1,900.
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