Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka Kyoto
Step back in time on Kyoto's enchanting Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka, historic streets brimming with traditional charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Capture serene, crowd-free shots.
Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka Kyoto
Best Time
Capture serene, crowd-free shots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time on Kyoto's enchanting Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka, historic streets brimming with traditional charm.
"These iconic slopes offer a magical glimpse into old Kyoto, especially at dawn or dusk."
🎯 Sunrise/Sunset Magic
Visit at dawn or dusk for magical light and fewer crowds.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The stone-paved streets can be uneven; wear comfy shoes for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ninenzaka Slope
Kyoto
A charming stone-paved lane lined with traditional wooden buildings, shops, and teahouses.
Sannenzaka Slope
Kyoto
Iconic, picturesque street with a slight incline, offering stunning views and a glimpse into old Kyoto.
Yasaka Pagoda (Hokanji Temple)
Between Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka
A striking five-story pagoda that serves as a beautiful landmark and photo backdrop.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Souvenir Shopping Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sunrise/Sunset Magic
Visit at dawn or dusk for magical light and fewer crowds.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The stone-paved streets can be uneven; wear comfy shoes for exploring.
📸 Patience for Photos
Expect to wait a few minutes for clear shots, especially on weekdays.
🛍️ Souvenir Smart Shopping
Focus on unique finds; many items are available elsewhere.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sunrise/Sunset Magic
Visit at dawn or dusk for magical light and fewer crowds.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The stone-paved streets can be uneven; wear comfy shoes for exploring.
📸 Patience for Photos
Expect to wait a few minutes for clear shots, especially on weekdays.
🛍️ Souvenir Smart Shopping
Focus on unique finds; many items are available elsewhere.
🚶♀️ Explore Beyond the Main Path
Wander down smaller alleys for quieter, authentic discoveries.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka are lauded for their picturesque, traditional Kyoto charm and photogenic streets, especially during dawn and dusk. However, many visitors find the daytime crowds overwhelming, with some describing it as excessively busy.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Kyoto Station, take a bus (e.g., #100 or #206) to the Gojo-zaka or Kiyomizu-michi bus stop. From there, it's a pleasant uphill walk towards Kiyomizu-dera Temple, passing through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka.
Yes, it's a very scenic and popular walk from Gion. Head towards Yasaka Shrine and then follow signs towards Kiyomizu-dera, passing through the charming streets.
If you're at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, simply head down the slopes in front of the temple's main gate. You'll immediately find yourself on Sannenzaka, leading to Ninenzaka.
Public transport is highly recommended as parking is very limited and expensive in this historic district.
Taxis can drop you off at the base of the slopes, but the streets themselves are pedestrian-only and quite steep in places.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, these are public streets and are free to wander through.
The streets are always accessible, but shops and restaurants typically operate from around 10 AM to 6 PM or later.
While walking the streets is free, individual shops, cafes, and some smaller temples may have their own entry fees or require purchases.
Early mornings (before 8 AM) or late evenings (after 7 PM) offer the most peaceful experience. Weekdays are also less crowded than weekends.
While not specifically tied to these streets, major Kyoto festivals can increase overall visitor numbers in the surrounding Gion and Higashiyama areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length of both slopes is incredibly photogenic. Look for the Yasaka Pagoda as a backdrop, and capture the traditional architecture and charming details.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, provides the most beautiful light. Early mornings are ideal for capturing the streets without people.
Generally, no, but be mindful of private businesses and residents. Avoid blocking pathways or being overly intrusive.
It's best to ask permission before taking photos inside shops, especially if you are not making a purchase.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full streetscapes, while a prime lens can be useful for detail shots.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a variety of traditional crafts, ceramics, fans, kimonos, sweets, and local snacks. There's also a popular Ghibli store.
While many shops offer traditional souvenirs, some Redditors suggest that similar items can be found in other shopping areas, with the exception of very specific artisan shops.
The streets are lined with charming cafes, traditional restaurants serving Kyoto cuisine, and sweet shops.
Look for matcha-flavored treats, mochi, and other traditional Japanese sweets. Many cafes offer a relaxing break.
Most shops and eateries open around 10 AM and close between 6 PM and 8 PM, though some may have extended hours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the busiest times, making it easier to navigate with children. The picturesque scenery provides a great backdrop for family photos, and the legend of the 'year slopes' can be a fun story to share.
While the streets are pedestrian-only, keep an eye on children as they explore, especially near the edges of the slopes. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The best light for capturing the essence of these streets is during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. To get those coveted crowd-free shots, aim for very early mornings (before 8 AM) or late evenings (after 7 PM).
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks or water to save on costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Sannenzaka & Ninenzaka
The names 'Sannenzaka' (three-year slope) and 'Ninenzaka' (two-year slope) are steeped in local folklore. A popular superstition suggests that falling down Sannenzaka will bring three years of bad luck, while falling down Ninenzaka is said to bring two years of misfortune. This has led to a playful caution among visitors, adding another layer to the area's mystique.
Despite their popularity and the inevitable crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons, these streets retain a magical quality. The best way to experience their true charm is by visiting during the quieter hours of early morning or late evening, when the soft glow of lanterns or the first light of dawn can transform the atmosphere.
Navigating the Crowds and Capturing the Moment
However, many travelers have found ways to mitigate the crowds and still enjoy the experience. Visiting very early in the morning, around 6:30 AM, has been highly recommended by Redditors for capturing pristine shots without any people.
For photographers, these early or late visits are crucial for getting those iconic, unobstructed shots of the Yasaka Pagoda and the charming streetscapes.
While the streets are always accessible, the shops and restaurants have specific operating hours, typically from 10 AM to 6 PM or later. Shopping and Local Crafts
One of the unique shops mentioned is a Ghibli store, which is a popular draw for fans of Studio Ghibli's animated films.
However, it's worth noting that some travelers suggest that many of the souvenir items found here are also available in other tourist areas or general shopping centers in Kyoto.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit