Travel Guide to Higashiyama

• Helloこんにちは
  [kon-ni-chi-wa]
• Goodbyeさようなら
  [sa-yo-u-na-ra]
• Yesはい
  [ha-i]
• Noいいえ
  [i-i-e]
• Please/You're welcomeどうぞ
  [do-u-zo]
• Thank youありがとうございます
  [a-ri-ga-to-u go-za-i-ma-su]
• Excuse me/Sorryすみません
  [su-mi-ma-se-n]
• How are you?お元気ですか？
  [o-ge-n-ki de-su ka?]
• Fine. And you?元気です。あなたは？
  [ge-n-ki de-su. a-na-ta wa?]
• Do you speak English?英語が話せますか？
  [e-i-go ga ha-na-se-ma-su ka?]
• I don't understandわかりません
  [wa-ka-ri-ma-se-n]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseメニューを見せてください
  [me-n-yu-u o mi-se-te ku-da-sai]
• I don't eat meat私は肉を食べません
  [wa-ta-shi wa ni-ku o ta-be-ma-se-n]
• Cheers!乾杯！
  [ka-m-pa-i]
• I would like to pay, pleaseお会計をお願いします
  [o-kai-kei o o-ne-ga-i shi-ma-su]

• Help!助けて！
  [ta-su-ke-te]
• Go away!去ってください！
  [sa-t-te ku-da-sa-i]
• Call the Police!警察を呼んでください！
  [ke-i-sa-t o yo-n-de ku-da-sa-i]
• Call a doctor!医者を呼んでください！
  [i-sha o yo-n-de ku-da-sa-i]
• I'm lost道に迷いました
  [mi-chi ni ma-ya-i-ma-shi-ta]
• I'm ill具合が悪いです
  [gu-a-i ga wa-ru-i de-su]

• I'd like to buy...購入したいです...
  [ko-u-n-yu-u shi-ta-i de-su]
• I'm just looking見ているだけです
  [mi-te i-ru da-ke de-su]
• How much is it?いくらですか？
  [i-ku-ra de-su ka?]
• That's too expensiveそれは高すぎます
  [so-re wa ta-ka-su-gi-ma-su]
• Can you lower the price?値段を下げてもらえますか？
  [ne-da-n o sa-ge-te mo-ra-e-ma-su ka?]

• What time is it?今何時ですか？
  [i-ma na-n-ji de-su ka?]
• It's one o'clock一時です
  [i-chi-ji de-su]
• Half past (10)十時半です
  [ju-u-ji ha-n de-su]
• Morning朝
  [a-sa]
• Afternoon午後
  [go-go]
• Evening夕方
  [yu-u-ga-ta]
• Yesterday昨日
  [ki-n-o-u]
• Today今日
  [kyo-u]
• Tomorrow明日
  [a-shi-ta]
• 11
  [i-chi]
• 22
  [ni]
• 33
  [sa-n]
• 44
  [yo-n]
• 55
  [go]
• 66
  [ro-ku]
• 77
  [na-na]
• 88
  [ha-chi]
• 99
  [ku]
• 1010
  [ju-u]

• Where's a/the...?...はどこですか？
  [...wa do-ko de-su ka?]
• What's the address?住所は何ですか？
  [ju-u-sho wa na-n de-su ka?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?地図で見せてもらえますか？
  [chi-zu de mi-se-te mo-ra-e-ma-su ka?]
• When's the next (bus)?次のバスはいつですか？
  [tsu-gi no ba-su wa i-tsu de-su ka?]
• A ticket (to ....)...までのチケット
  [...ma-de no chi-ke-t-to]

Higashiyama, meaning 'Eastern Mountain,' emerged as a vital cultural and religious center in the 8th century during the Heian Period. The area became a prominent location for temples and shrines, reflecting the growing influence of Buddhism, which was introduced to Japan from China. Notable temples such as Kiyomizu-dera and Sanjusangendo were established, attracting pilgrims and scholars alike.

During the Edo Period (1603-1868), Higashiyama experienced a cultural renaissance. The establishment of the 'Higashiyama Culture' saw the rise of tea ceremonies, Noh theater, and traditional crafts. The area became home to artists and craftsmen, contributing to the development of Kyoto's unique aesthetic. The neighborhood's picturesque streets and historic architecture remain a testament to this vibrant cultural scene.

In the early 20th century, Higashiyama faced the challenges of modernization. However, efforts were made to preserve its historical significance. The founding of the Kyoto City Museum of Art in 1933 marked a commitment to cultural preservation. The neighborhood retained its charm even as the surrounding areas underwent rapid urbanization, maintaining its status as a cultural hub.

The aftermath of World War II brought significant changes to Higashiyama. The 1950s and 60s saw a surge in domestic tourism as people sought to reconnect with Japan's cultural heritage. The restoration of historical sites and the promotion of traditional arts led to an increased appreciation for the neighborhood's unique character. Higashiyama became a focal point for both national and international visitors.

Today, Higashiyama stands as a vibrant community where tradition and modernity coexist. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical significance and well-preserved architecture. Contemporary art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes complement the ancient temples and historic streets, making Higashiyama a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience Kyoto's rich cultural tapestry.

Higashiyama is well-connected to other neighborhoods in Kyoto. From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kiyomizu-gojo Station. From there, you can walk to the main attractions. Alternatively, take bus number 100 or 206 from Kyoto Station, which directly serves the Higashiyama area. For those coming from Gion, it's a pleasant 15 to 20-minute walk to the southern part of Higashiyama.

Higashiyama is best explored on foot due to its narrow streets and beautiful scenery. Public buses are available for longer distances, with routes connecting major sites. Bicycles can be rented from nearby shops and are a great way to navigate the area. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive. Be aware that some areas may be steep, so wear comfortable shoes.

Higashiyama is considered a safe neighborhood for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions are advised. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Stay vigilant in busy tourist spots like Kiyomizu-dera and Ninenzaka.

In case of an emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 119 for fire and medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or clinic. Most hospitals in Kyoto have English-speaking staff. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout Higashiyama for over-the-counter medication.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples. Don’t wear overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs, such as bowing slightly when entering temples. Don’t take photos where it's prohibited. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly. Don’t talk loudly. Greetings: Do greet with a slight bow. Don’t initiate a handshake unless the other person does first. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties such as yudofu. Don’t eat while walking.

To experience Higashiyama like a local, visit the small tea houses and artisan shops tucked away in the side streets. Engage with local artisans who often welcome visitors for demonstrations. Try to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony for a unique cultural experience. Explore less-traveled paths to discover hidden shrines and gardens.