The Higashiyama district in Kyoto is one of the city's best preserved historic areas. You will be able to experience and feel the old Kyoto in this area, such as Kiyomizudera and Yasaka Shrine are located within this area as well. You will see narrow stone paths, old wooden buildings and traditional shops selling Kyoto food. Everything will make you feel that you are back in the old Kyoto even more!
The streets are filled small shops, restaurants and cafes, especially those closest to Kiyomizudera Temple. They sell all sorts of different goods such as Kiyomizu-yaki, wooden, handmade crafts and sweet snacks for visitors, be they locals or tourists.
This walk will take you through the area between Kiyomizudera and Yasaka Shrine and is about 2 km in length. You can stop by Kiyomizudera Temple and Yasaka Shrine along the way, not to mention pass by lots of small local residences and shops too. The walk can be made in either direction – if you end up at Yasaka Shrine, you can continue further towards the Gion Shijo area where many nightlife and food spots are located.
During the summer, there is a high chance that you will come across a small festivals going on, especially as it gets nearer to the Gion Matsuri festival. Usually the celebration takes place in the early evening. When it starts to get darker, the roads are lit up with Japanese old-style lighting, adding to the ambience and feel of old Kyoto. When you are walking around, you will be able to hear the chanting of the festival in the distance if there is one.
If you do encounter a festival, you will get to see how Kyoto residents value such cultural traditions. The air will be filled with chanting and music, and lots of people will join the festival parade. You will get to know Kyoto slightly deeper and more personal, when can experience this side of Kyoto's traditional culture.
