Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka Slopes

There are places you visit because TripAdvisor told you to, and there are places you visit because you want to feel like an extra in a Kurosawa film. Sannenzaka Slope is the latter. Last night I walked this slope under a full moon, and let me tell you – the ambience was off the charts. The street lamps cast this cinematic glow on the stone steps, families were strolling in quiet awe, and every traditional machiya shop whispered, “Yes, you’re in Kyoto. Yes, you are irrelevant in the grand scheme of things, but at least you’re irrelevant here.” The preserved wooden buildings here are timeless. It’s beautiful, romantic, and yes – filled with people trying to get the perfect Instagram shot in front of Yasaka Pagoda. But for once, I didn’t mind. The vibe felt authentic. People respected the space. There were no TikTok kids doing dances in the middle of the slope. Just visitors soaking in centuries of aesthetic perfection. Pro tips: • Go after sundown. The lantern lighting is pure dopamine for your soul. • Watch your step. These stones are older than your national debt and just as unforgiving if you slip. • Bring cash if you want a late-night snack – many places still live in the Showa era when it comes to payment systems. • Pause, look up, and let the moonlight remind you how small you are. It’s good for the ego. In a world optimised for speed and convenience, this place forces you to slow down. And if that annoys you, congratulations: you’re exactly the type of person who needs to walk Sannenzaka at night.

Great place to stroll, get souvenirs and watch the sunset! We went on our first evening in Kyoto and each turn was a surprising delight. Definitely crowded so arrive hydrated and with lots of patience so you’ll enjoy the experience!

Sannenzaka is one of those spots that really shifts depending on the time of day you visit. I’ve been here during the day when it was fairly empty, and again at night — absolute banger. Peaceful, atmospheric, and almost cinematic when the lanterns are on and the crowds are gone. But right before sunset? Oh my oh my… tourists galore. It felt like the entire world decided to show up for golden hour. The street itself is beautiful — narrow, sloped, and lined with traditional buildings, shops, and tea houses. It has that old Kyoto charm you see in travel photos. But keep in mind, it’s uphill, and I’m not sure it’s ADA-friendly. The stairs and slope could be tough for those with mobility issues. Lighting and timing really matter here. Depending on where the sun is and how many people are around, the vibe can go from serene to chaotic. Bring your camera — it’s absolutely photogenic — but don’t count on it being tripod-friendly. The street is tight and constantly moving with foot traffic. Still, it’s a must-visit if you’re in Kyoto. Try to go early morning or late night for the best experience.

Went there at night and it was a new experience walking along traditional buildings without too much light and crowds. There are other groups of people exploring the place too, but it is far from crowded. Best to not make much noise, since some people do live there. Some roads are accessible to cars as well. Mostly taxis plying the single lane street. I was very glad vending machines are operational there, even at night.