Ninenzaka (Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Ninenzaka is a stone-paved slope located southwest of Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, and the surrounding area has been designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. It is a charming walking path lined with townhouses dating back to the Edo period, and teahouses, craft shops, souvenir shops, and sweet shops. Old-fashioned lattice doors and tiled roofs remain on both sides of the slope, preserving the traditional Japanese scenery typical of Kyoto, making it a popular photo spot for tourists from both Japan and abroad.

There are various theories about the origin of the name (such as it being derived from the name of a monk or being related to folklore), but it developed as a route to visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and is a representative walking path in the Higashiyama area, along with Sannenzaka (Sannenzaka).

Highlights

• Cobblestone streets and traditional townhouses: The photogenic scenery continues, creating a charming atmosphere both day and night.
• Crafts and souvenir shops: A wide variety of Kyoto-style items, including Kyoto fans, lacquerware, Japanese goods, and Japanese sweets.
• Teahouses, sweet shops, and cafes: Take a break with matcha green tea and Japanese sweets. Many of these shops are renovated from old houses.
• Kimono rental and photo shoot service: You can stroll around in a kimono, making it a popular spot for taking photos in traditional clothing.
• Scenic spots in the area: The views from the top of the hill and the alleys, as well as the route to nearby Sannenzaka and Kiyomizu-dera Temple are beautiful.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• By train or on foot: Approximately 20-25 minutes on foot from Keihan Gion-Shijo Station or Hankyu Kawaramachi Station (depending on uphill sections and traffic conditions). It is also possible to walk from the Gion and Yasaka Shrine areas.
• Bus: Take Kyoto City Bus routes 100 or 206 to the Kiyomizu-michi or Gojozaka bus stop, then walk up the hill for about 5-10 minutes.
• Taxi: Approximately 15-25 minutes by taxi from Kyoto Station (depending on the time of day and traffic congestion).
• Note: Because it is adjacent to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, it is common to visit it together with Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The roads in the vicinity are narrow, so street parking is not permitted.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short walks and photography: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• A leisurely stroll including shopping and cafe breaks: 1-2 hours
• If you combine a tour of Kiyomizu-dera Temple and surrounding spots (Sannenzaka, Sannenzaka, Yasaka Pagoda, etc.): 2 to 4 hours

Nearby spots

• Kiyomizu-dera Temple (a short walk away) — World Heritage Site, Otowa Falls, and the Kiyomizu Stage.
• Sannenzaka (Sannenzaka) - A historic slope comparable to Ninenzaka. We recommend exploring both.
• Yasaka Pagoda (Hokanji Temple) — The old pagoda and surrounding alleys are picturesque.
• Kodaiji Temple, Nene no Michi, Maruyama Park - historical sites and gardens dot the area.
• Gion Area—Hanamikoji, traditional streets, and maiko culture.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: It gets especially crowded between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, during the cherry blossom season in spring, the autumn foliage season in autumn, and on national holidays and consecutive weekends. Please be mindful not to obstruct people taking photos or walking. Early mornings (before opening) and evenings are relatively quiet.
• Cobblestones and slopes: There are steps and slippery cobblestones, which can be particularly slippery in rainy weather, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. There are some areas that are difficult for strollers and wheelchairs to negotiate.
• Consideration for residential areas and businesses: Please refrain from taking photos for long periods of time or shouting in narrow alleys, private property, or in front of homes, and remember to be considerate of residents and businesses.
• Garbage and Smoking: Smoking and littering on the street are bad manners. Please stay in designated areas.
• Cash and business hours: Smaller stores may only accept cash. Most stores are open from 9:00 to 18:00, but opening hours vary by store, so it's best to check in advance.
• When renting a kimono: Be mindful not to get in the way of other pedestrians, and be careful not to slip or fall with long hems or high heels.

Ninenzaka is a strolling spot where you can easily experience the essence of Kyoto. Take your time and stroll around the surrounding temples, shrines and alleys, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.