Higashiyama, Kyoto Travel Guide

Explore Higashiyama, Kyoto's enchanting neighbourhood filled with historical temples, traditional architecture, and cultural treasures that transport you back in time.

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Higashiyama, nestled in the eastern part of Kyoto, is a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders. This enchanting neighbourhood offers a unique glimpse into Japan's rich past, with its cobblestone streets, traditional wooden machiya houses, and serene temples. As you wander through Higashiyama, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, surrounded by the timeless elegance of ancient Japan. The neighbourhood is home to some of Kyoto's most famous landmarks, including the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which offers breathtaking views of the city from its wooden terrace. Don't miss the chance to visit the picturesque Yasaka Shrine, a symbol of Kyoto, and the tranquil Maruyama Park, which is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season. Higashiyama is also a haven for art and culture enthusiasts. The area boasts numerous museums, traditional tea houses, and craft shops where you can watch artisans at work. Be sure to explore the charming Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets, lined with quaint shops selling local snacks, souvenirs, and handmade goods. Whether you're a history buff, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a serene escape, Higashiyama promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Higashiyama.

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven and require a fair amount of walking.
Try local delicacies like yatsuhashi (sweet mochi) and pick up some unique souvenirs from the artisan shops.
Spend an evening in Gion, just a short walk away, to experience Kyoto's traditional entertainment district.
Plan your visit during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) for an unforgettable experience in Maruyama Park.

Explore Higashiyama: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Higashiyama

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the spiritual beauty of Fushimi Inari Taisha, home to thousands of stunning vermilion torii gates in Kyoto, Japan.

4.6

Kiyomizu-dera

Explore Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto's breathtaking Buddhist temple, offering stunning views, rich culture, and serene beauty in Japan's historic landscape.

4.5

Hanamikoji Street

Discover the historic beauty of Hanamikoji Street, where Kyoto's traditional charm meets vibrant culture in a stunning setting.

4.3

Kyoto National Museum

Discover the artistic wealth and historical treasures of Japan at the Kyoto National Museum, a must-visit for every traveler in Kyoto.

4.3

Best landmarks in Higashiyama

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Best Landmarks

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Fushimi Inari Taisha

Explore the breathtaking Fushimi Inari Taisha, Kyoto's iconic Shinto shrine adorned with thousands of vibrant torii gates leading up sacred Mount Inari.

4.6

Kiyomizu-dera

Discover Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, where stunning views, rich history, and serene spirituality converge in a breathtaking experience.

4.5

Nishiki Market

Discover Nishiki Market, a vibrant culinary and cultural hub in Kyoto, where local delicacies and artisanal crafts await every traveler.

4.2

Nijō Castle

Experience the grandeur of Nijō Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, where history, architecture, and nature beautifully intertwine.

4.4

Best restaurants in Higashiyama

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THE SODOH HIGASHIYAMA KYOTO｜Restaurant

Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto, where tradition meets modern elegance in every dish.

4.3

Kobe Beef Steak Restaurant MOURIYA GION

Savor the luxury of authentic Kobe beef at MOURIYA GION - where tradition meets culinary excellence in Kyoto's historic district.

4.8

Teppan Tavern Tenamonya

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Teppan Tavern Tenamonya in Gion, Kyoto – where every meal is a delightful culinary performance.

4.8

Yuba cuisine Higashiyama Yuuzu

Experience Kyoto's finest yuba cuisine at Higashiyama Yuuzu—where tradition meets creativity in every dish.

4.4

Best bars in Higashiyama

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Pig & Whistle

Enjoy the cozy ambiance and local brews at Pig & Whistle, a must-visit pub in Kyoto's vibrant nightlife.

4.2

The Common One Bar Kyoto

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at The Common One Bar, where expertly crafted cocktails and a lively ambiance await.

4.4

Man in the Moon Gion

Experience Kyoto's culinary charm at Man in the Moon Gion, where every grilled dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

4.1

ROCK BAR CRUNCH

Discover the lively atmosphere of Rock Bar Crunch, Kyoto's favorite bar for cocktails and socializing amidst stunning local charm.

4.9

Best nightclubs in Higashiyama

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KITSUNE KYOTO

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Kitsune Kyoto, where modern beats meet traditional ambiance in the heart of the city.

4.7

WORLD KYOTO

Dive into the energetic nightlife of WORLD KYOTO, where culture and contemporary beats collide in the heart of Kyoto.

4.1

KYOTO Chambers

Immerse yourself in the electrifying nightlife of Kyoto at KYOTO Chambers, where unforgettable experiences await in a stylish setting.

4.7

Cabaret (formerly BAR Baaru)

Discover Cabaret in Kyoto, a lively bar offering cocktails, karaoke, and live music for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.9

Best shops in Higashiyama

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Maiko Antiques Kyoto

Explore the rich heritage of Japan at Maiko Antiques Kyoto, a treasure trove of unique and authentic antiques in the heart of the city.

4.8

Ghibli Studios Shop Kyoto

Explore the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli at the Ghibli Studios Shop Kyoto, a must-visit for fans of animation and art.

4.1

Ki-Yan Stuzio Gion Ishidan-shita Shop

Discover Kyoto's artistic essence at Ki-Yan Stuzio Gion Ishidan-shita Shop, where clothing meets art in a charming boutique experience.

4.4

Studio Ghibli shop

Explore the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli at this delightful gift shop in Kyoto, filled with unique merchandise and magical memorabilia.

4.3

Explore Higashiyama on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Higashiyama, mapped for you.

Higashiyama Essentials

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.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Higashiyama

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Higashiyama. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- 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]

History of Higashiyama

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.