Strolling Gion in Kimono: Must-Visit Photo Spots You’ll Love in Kyoto

When it comes to popular destinations for couples’ trips and girls’ getaways, Kyoto, the ancient capital, is a classic choice. Among them, the geisha district of “Gion” is renowned as a symbol of Kyoto tourism, with prestigious tea houses and traditional restaurants lining the streets. This historic district, with its traditional architecture and culture, has been frequented by literary figures and cultural icons for generations, preserving the rich history of old Kyoto.

And the perfect attire for the enchanting “Gion” is the kimono.

Walking through the nostalgic streets of Gion in a kimono gives you a sense of blending into the scenery filled with Japanese aesthetics.

So, this time, we will introduce “Charming Gion – Strolling in Kimono ☆ Sightseeing Spots Perfect for Taking Photos” and suggest trying kimono rental in Gion to capture memorable moments at spots that complement your kimono.

Kimono Rental in Gion for Commemorative Photos at Famous Spots!

Yasaka Pagoda

Yasaka Pagoda, famous as the symbol of Gion, is formally known as Hokanji Temple. It stands as the third tallest five-story pagoda, following Toji Temple and Kofukuji Temple. Located near the Ninen-zaka slope, which is the approach to Kiyomizu Temple, it sits roughly midway between Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu Temple.

“Yasaka Pagoda” is a five-story pagoda with a height of 46 meters, featuring a tiled roof. You can enter and explore up to the second floor. To support the weight of the pagoda, a large central pillar (shinbashira) passes through it, and when you visit, you can experience its grandeur up close.

One of the highlights of “Yasaka Pagoda” is its charming appearance. When you look up at the tower from the long sloping road below, combined with the stone-paved road and the surrounding machiya (traditional townhouses), “Yasaka Pagoda” appears even more solemn. It’s also recommended to view it from the adjacent Kodaiji Temple Park. The scenery of Gion’s surroundings and “Yasaka Pagoda” merging into one creates an ideal photo spot.

Visit “Yasaka Pagoda,” which has watched over Gion for centuries, and capture a picturesque moment in your kimono.

Okazaki Shrine

Near Heian Shrine, you will find the tranquil “Okazaki Shrine.” It was founded when the capital was relocated to Heian-kyo in 794 to serve as a guardian shrine for the royal city. Due to its eastern location, it came to be known as “East Heavenly King.” Additionally, Okazaki Shrine is known for its many blessings related to matchmaking, safe childbirth, and fertility, attracting the faith of many women.

One of the highlights of “Okazaki Shrine” is the “Komo Usagi” or “Guardian Rabbits” rather than traditional guardian lions (komainu). These adorable “Komo Usagi” with white bodies and red eyes warmly welcome you in front of the main hall.

Another attraction is a row of small rabbit figurines just across from the main hall. The cute white and pink rabbits make for a perfect Instagram-worthy photo spot. In fact, these rabbits serve as containers for omikuji (fortune slips). As visitors who drew omikuji began to leave the containers behind rather than taking them home, this adorable line of rabbits was born.

Experience “Okazaki Shrine” in a rented kimono in Gion and capture a commemorative photo with these charming rabbits.

Yasaka Koshin-do Temple

Situated in the vicinity of Yasaka Pagoda, you’ll find “Yasaka Koshin-do Temple,” formally known as “Kongo-ji Temple.” Locally, it is affectionately referred to as “Koshin-san of Yasaka.”

“Yasaka Koshin-do Temple” is one of Japan’s three major Koshin temples and is known as the oldest Koshin temple in Japan. The temple’s main deity, Aomine Kongo, is the guardian deity of the Hata clan from the Asuka period. There is a belief that Aomine Kongo will devour a three-foot-long insect that emerges from within on Koshin days, leading to many visitors on those days.

Another attraction of “Yasaka Koshin-do Temple” is the “Kukurizaru” or “bound monkeys” amulets. These colorful and adorable ball-shaped amulets can be seen throughout the temple grounds.

The “Kukurizaru” represents monkeys with their hands and feet bound, symbolizing the control of one’s heart. When you visit, choose a “Kukurizaru” in your favorite color, tie it with your wishes, and hang it up. These amulets are handmade and limited to 100 on weekdays and 300 on weekends, so get yours early.

In your kimono, take a memorable photo in front of these colorful “Kukurizaru” at “Yasaka Koshin-do Temple.”

You can reach “Yasaka Koshin-do Temple” with just a 12-minute walk from Rikawafuku Kimono Gion Store.

Capture Unforgettable Photos at Scenic Spots That Highlight Your Kimono!

Shogunzuka

“Shogunzuka” is located at the summit of Mount Higashiyama and is a subsidiary of the Tendai sect’s “Shorenin” temple. It is the place where Emperor Kanmu, along with Wake no Kiyomaro, ascended and decided to establish Heian-kyo (current Kyoto) after viewing the panoramic landscape below. During this momentous event, a statue of a general was created from earth, adorned with armor, a bow, and a sword, and buried, giving rise to the name “Shogunzuka.”

And one of the recommended spots at “Shogunzuka” is the “Dai-butai” or “Great Stage,” which was installed in October 2014 at the summit, approximately 216 meters above sea level. This wooden stage is about 4.6 times the size of Kiyomizu Stage, boasting a spacious area of approximately 1046 square meters and exudes the charm of traditional Japanese culture that complements your kimono.

From the “Dai-butai,” you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto City, and from the western observation deck, you can see all the fires of the Gozan no Okuribi (Mountain Bonfires) and even catch a glimpse of Osaka in the distance. It is undoubtedly an excellent spot for photography with breathtaking views.

While experiencing the atmosphere of Kyoto up close is wonderful, seeing it from above is truly exceptional. Gaze upon the picturesque landscape created by the beautiful ancient city, capture a memorable photo in your kimono, and cherish the moment forever.

Reizan Gokoku Shrine

Located near the approach to Kodai-ji Temple, “Reizan Gokoku Shrine” stands on the site where the turmoil of Japan began during the late Edo period and the time of Perry’s arrival. It was founded in the first year of the Meiji era as the “Reizan Kan-sai Shokonsha” to honor the spirits of the warriors who fought with all their might for their beliefs in the capital city of Kyoto.

The highlight of “Reizan Gokoku Shrine” is the “Reizan Cemetery” located on the hill. The graves of renowned warriors such as Sakamoto Ryoma, Nakoka Shinataro, Takasugi Shinsaku, and Katsura Kogoro are lined up here, attracting visitors from all over the country.

Every year on May 26th, there is the “Matsukiku Festival,” and from November 10th to 11th, the “Ryoma Yosakoi (Ryoma Festival Dedication Ritual)” takes place, followed by the “Ryoma Festival” on November 15th, drawing many participants and tourists.

Moreover, from the graves of Sakamoto Ryoma and Nakoka Shinataro, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto City, making it a hidden gem for spectacular photography. “Reizan Gokoku Shrine” transforms into a famous cherry blossom spot in spring, with beautiful cherry blossoms in full bloom, adding to the charm of the Gion area.

While exploring in your kimono, take in the view of the city from this location and reflect on the turbulent times of the late Edo period.

Stroll Through the Alleys in a Kimono! Premier Photography Spots in Gion!

Ishibei-koji Alley

Located in the hidden gem of Gion, “Ishibei-koji Alley” is a narrow path lined with machiya (traditional townhouses) on both sides. It is a popular spot for its charming Kyoto atmosphere. The entrance can be easily missed, but you’ll find a small sign reading “Ishibei-koji” at the street corner.

The stone-paved alley features stones used from the former Kyoto City tram tracks, allowing you to glimpse the atmosphere of the Meiji era.

“Ishibei-koji Alley” is a place where the tranquility of ancient Kyoto still remains. Since vehicular traffic is prohibited on this narrow road, you can leisurely enjoy a kimono stroll and photography. Additionally, the red-brick wall that appears as you walk down the alley is another highlight. The imported red bricks add a vivid touch to the stone-paved alley, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.

Explore “Ishibei-koji Alley,” which preserves the culture of Meiji-era Kyoto, in your beautiful kimono and capture memorable photos along the way.

Nene no Michi

Gion’s gateway, the “Nene no Michi,” leads from Maruyama Park on the north side to the foot of Kodai-ji Temple. This alley, named after “Nene,” the legal wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who spent her later years at Kodai-ji Entoku-in, is adorned with approximately 2,500 cobblestones.

The “Nene no Michi,” with its beautiful scenery, is known as one of Gion’s representative photo spots.

Opposite Kodai-ji Temple, you’ll find famous shops like “To-ji-ri,” known for its matcha parfait, and “Kyoto Rakushi Nene,” where you can enjoy shopping for cute miscellaneous goods, bustling with many tourists.

Furthermore, the rickshaws are also famous along the “Nene no Michi.” While strolling is nice, sometimes it’s recommended to dash through the streets of Kyoto on a rickshaw. Photos taken from a rickshaw offer a different glimpse of the ancient capital’s charm.

In the beautiful “Nene no Michi,” where kimonos are particularly fitting, capture a special moment with a photo.

Rent a Kimono in Gion and Take Memorable Photos!

Gion is overflowing with charming streets and is one of Kyoto’s top tourist destinations where kimonos shine. Additionally, it has numerous tourist spots where kimonos can be further accentuated, offering picturesque settings for photos.

When touring Gion, consider renting a kimono and capturing a memorable photo at one of these spots where kimonos shine.

If you’re planning a girls’ trip to Kyoto, check this out: Recommended Kimono Walking Tour Information for Those Renting Kimonos on a Girls’ Trip to Kyoto

Author of this article

Kyoto Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku operates four kimono rental shops in Kyoto city, including locations in Arashiyama, Gion, Kiyomizu Temple, and in front of Kyoto Station. In 2023, they served over 230,000 customers in the Kyoto area!
They offer affordable plans, with a kimono dressing plan starting from 3,500 yen, and a hair setting plan from 5,500 yen.
Close to popular tourist spots such as Togetsukyo Bridge, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Koshindo, and Yasaka Shrine!
Kyoto Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Gion Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Arashiyama Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Kiyomizu Temple Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Kyoto Station Front Store