Kyoto Free Travel - Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

🌟Tour Date: Tuesday, November 5, 2024

🗓️Attraction/Store Information: Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka
📍Address: Located in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, connecting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and the Gion area

🈺Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day
💰Admission: Free

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Detailed introduction and suggested itinerary for Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka 🏯🍵. These are the most charming old streets around Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto, perfect for strolling and taking photos.

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🌸 Introduction to Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka

I. Basic Information
• Location: Located in Kyoto's Higashiyama district, connecting Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and the Gion area
• Origin of the Names:
• Sannenzaka: Legend has it that falling down this slope brings bad luck for three years, so be careful with your steps.
• Ninenzaka: The name is said to be associated with prayers for safe childbirth.
• Highlights:
• Stone-paved slopes, wooden machiya houses, and traditional eaves perfectly preserve the traditional Kyoto streetscape.
• Filled with wagashi shops, matcha sweets, and souvenir shops, it's a great place to stroll and eat.
• Kimono wearers often come here for photos, making it one of Kyoto's most popular walking routes.

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II. Must-See Highlights
1. Historic Street Atmosphere
• Stone-paved streets and wooden machiya houses make it feel like stepping back in time to the Edo period.
2. Wagashi & Matcha Sweets
• Yatsuhashi (Kyoto Specialty)
• Uji Matcha Ice Cream, Matcha Cake
• Saryo Tsujiri, Tsujiri Tea Shop
3. Souvenir Shop
• Kyoto Handicrafts (Fans, Kiyomizu-yaki Pottery)
• Japanese-style Items, Amulets
4. Photo Spots
• The stone path at the entrance to Ninenenzaka (a popular spot for kimono photos)
• The stone steps of Sannenzaka, often with Yasaka Pagoda (Hokan-ji Temple) in the background

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III. Suggested Itinerary (Half-Day Stroll)

⏰ Morning Itinerary (Suitable for Kiyomizu-dera Temple)
1. 8:00 AM Arrive at Kiyomizu-dera Temple → Visit the Kiyomizu Stage
2. 10:00 AM Descend Kiyomizu-zaka → Transfer to Sannenzaka
3. 10:30 AM Stroll around Sannenzaka → Take photos and browse unique shops
4. 11:00 AM Stroll around Ninenenzaka → Break with matcha desserts and souvenirs
5. 12:00 PM Head to Yasaka Pagoda (Hokan-ji Temple) → Photograph classic Kyoto streetscapes

⏰ Afternoon Route (Extended to Gion)
6. 1:00 PM Lunch (Gion Kyoto cuisine / Japanese bento)
7. 2:00 PM Visit Yasaka Shrine
8. 3:00 PM Stroll along Hanami-koji to experience the atmosphere of Kyoto's flower streets
9. 5:00 PM Evening in Gion → Chance to see maiko

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IV. Best Time to Visit
• 8-10 AM: Least crowded, high chance of capturing stunning photos
• Cherry blossom season (March-April) & fall foliage season (November): Most beautiful and popular
• Evening: Some shops may be closed, but the historic streets under the streetlights offer a unique charm

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V. Tips
• Shoes: The cobblestones can be slippery, so comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.
• Shopping: Many shops offer duty-free shopping, making it a great opportunity to pick up some Kyoto souvenirs.
• Kimono Experience: For the most stunning photo op, consider pairing it with Ninenzaka.
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