Ninenzaka

Thursday, March 24, 2022 Updated

Kyoto Ninenzaka | Traditional Kyoto-esque Atmosphere

Just a walk down from Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto is Ninenzaka, a preciously restored neighborhood filled with many traditional Kyoto-esque shops and restaurants. Along with Sannenzaka, this samurai-era shopping street is a call to the days of Kyoto's past. Keeping power-lines and telephone poles hidden from plain view to preserve an atmosphere from another century, traditional wooden houses and buildings line this popular tourist destination in Kyoto. The gently sloping street is a popular spot to experience what life was like in Kyoto before Western and modern influences settled into Japan. A stroll along this street is sure to feel as if you are traveled time to a "classic Japan."

Recommended Spots | Kyoto Shopping Guide

There are many souvenir shops and tea houses to stop by as you make your way up or down the hill. Recommended Stores:

Hokusai Graphic: Japanese Pattern Umbrella store with designs based on traditional Japanese patterns. handmade by experts, the folding umbrellas are perfect souvenirs.
Starbucks: Built on the site of a former traditional Japanese house that's over 100 years old, this is one of the few Starbucks in the world where you can sip on your latte on the comfort of a tatami floor.
Hello Kitty Tea House: Based on the popular Sanrio Character, the Hello Kitty Tea House is dedicated to bringing you Kyoto's traditional charms with Hello Kitty Cuteness.
Donguri Kyowakoku Ninenzaka: Shop selling Studio Ghibil-themed souvenirs & anime-goods.
Ishidatami: Homemade Japanese-style Soft-serve ice cream (matcha, pumpkin, & chestnut)
Kanda Bamboo: Japanese Crafts store offering bamboo goods (family owned; third-generation)
Fukiya: Traditional Japanese arts & craft goods

Be sure to check out these shops and more while on a Spring Cherry Blossom tour or Highlights Japan tour through as we explore Ninenzaka during our Kyoto tour. You can also ask your travel agent about our affordable line of private or custom tours to enjoy Japan, your way.