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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Italian cuisine
Kyoto
2020 Michelin Kyoto Italian Restaurant : RISTRANTE ITALIANO CHIMERA (1 star)
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Japanese cuisine
Kyoto
2019 Michelin Kyoto Japanese Restaurant : Gion Nanba (1 star)
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Japanese cuisine
Kyoto
2017 Michelin Kyoto Japanese Restaurant : Sangencha (1 star)
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Japanese cuisine
Kyoto
2017 Michelin Kyoto Japanese Restaurant : Gion Moriwaki (1 star)
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Japanese cuisine
Kyoto
2020 Michelin Kyoto Japanese Restaurant : Gion Kawakami (1 star)
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Japanese cuisine
Kyoto
2021 Michelin Kyoto Japanese Restaurant : Rikichi (1 star)