기온(祇園), 교토

Gion is Kyoto's most celebrated and historically preserved district, located in the Higashiyama Ward on the eastern bank of the Kamo River. It is widely considered the cultural heart of old Japan, where centuries of tradition have been carefully maintained alongside modern life.

The district traces its origins back over 1,000 years, developing as an entertainment and hospitality quarter around the grounds of Yasaka Shrine. It grew to serve pilgrims, aristocrats, and merchants, and gradually evolved into the refined world of geisha culture, known in Kyoto's dialect as geiko.

Gion is one of Japan's last surviving hanamachi (flower towns), where the traditional geisha arts of dance, music, and conversation are still actively practiced.

The most iconic street in the district is Hanamikoji-dori, a stone-paved lane lined with traditional machiya townhouses that now house exclusive restaurants and ochaya (geisha teahouses). In the early evening, visitors xoccasionally catch a glimpse of a maiko (apprentice geisha) or geiko making their way to an appointment.

The historic Ichiriki Chaya, one of Japan's most famous ochaya with over 300 years of operation, stands along Hanamikoji and remains a strictly invitation-only establishment.

Running parallel to Hanamikoji is Shinbashi-dori, often called the most beautiful street in Japan. During cherry blossom season, the weeping willows and blossoms along the Shirakawa Canal create an almost magical atmosphere.

Yasaka Shrine stands at the western end of Gion along Shijo-dori and is the spiritual anchor of the neighborhood. It is the site of the famous Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's three greatest festivals, held every July since the 9th century. The festival features a spectacular procession of towering yamaboko floats and draws millions of visitors. Its traditions have been honored without interruption for over 1,100 years.

Gion Corner theater offers curated performances of traditional Japanese arts including Kyomai (Kyoto-style dance), ikebana (flower arranging), koto music, and Bunraku puppet theater. It is one of the most accessible introductions to classical Japanese culture for visitors.

Gion borders the Higashiyama sightseeing district, connecting naturally to Kiyomizudera Temple, Ninenzaka, and Sannenzaka, the famous stone-paved lanes of preserved old Kyoto.

The area is easily reached from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line or Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line, both within a short walk of the district's main streets. Entry into the public streets and shrine grounds is free.