Yasaka refers to the area surrounding Yasaka Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most iconic Shinto shrines and the spiritual heart of the Gion district. The area is rich in history, featuring traditional architecture, lantern-lit streets, and access to Maruyama Park. Yasaka is also central to the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan’s most famous festivals. A visit here offers deep cultural immersion and sacred Kyoto charm.
Higashiyama
Overview
Higashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photogenic areas, featuring Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden townhouses. The district exudes old Kyoto charm, where geisha culture still thrives and seasonal beauty—especially cherry blossoms and autumn foliage—draws visitors year-round.
Areas
Kodaiji Temple is a historic and culturally significant temple located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. Established in the early 1600s, it is celebrated for its stunning traditional Japanese gardens, elegant architecture, and breathtaking seasonal illumination events, especially in autumn and spring. The temple complex provides visitors with a serene atmosphere to appreciate classical Japanese aesthetics, including carefully maintained tea houses and stone pathways, making it a highlight of any Kyoto visit.
What to Eat in Higashiyama
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Steak
Kyoto
2016 Michelin Kyoto Steak Restaurant : Yutaka Gion (1 star)
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Japanese cuisine
Kyoto
2016 Michelin Kyoto Japanese Restaurant : Sottaku Tsukamoto (2 star)
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Wagyu (kobe beef)
Kyoto
2019 Michelin Kyoto Wagyu Restaurant : Isshin Gion (2 star)
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Japanese cuisine
Kyoto
2023 Michelin Kyoto Japanese Restaurant : Aji Fukushima (1 star)
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Japanese cuisine
Kyoto
2023 Michelin Kyoto Japanese Restaurant : Gion Maeda (3 star)
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French cuisine
Kyoto
2024 Michelin Kyoto French Restaurant : Benoit (SELECTED)