Gion is a particularly atmospheric area of ​​Kyoto and is the perfect place to stroll around in a yukata.
 
In this article, we will introduce recommended sightseeing spots in Gion where you can rent a yukata and enjoy the beautiful scenery and history. We have carefully selected spots that look great in yukata and famous places worth visiting, so please use this as a reference.

Gion Shirakawa: Attractive streets and beautiful cherry blossom trees

Gion Shirakawa, where history and beauty coexist

Gion Shirakawa is one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric areas, with its stone-paved streets and traditional wooden houses, making you feel as if you have traveled back in time.
 
In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, making it a perfect place to stroll around in a yukata.

Photogenic spots

Gion Shirakawa is lined with cherry blossom trees and a beautiful stone bridge, and no matter where you take a photo, you’ll see picturesque scenery. It’s a recommended spot for those who want to take Instagram-worthy photos.
 
From evening through the night, paper lanterns are lit, creating a different atmosphere.

Plenty of cafes and restaurants

If you want to take a break during your stroll, you can stop by one of the cafes or restaurants along the Gion Shirakawa River.
 
You can enjoy delicious Japanese sweets and matcha green tea while feeling the Japanese atmosphere.

Yasaka Shrine: A symbol of Kyoto

A historic shrine

Yasaka Shrine is a symbol of Kyoto and a popular tourist destination. It is also known as the host shrine of the Gion Festival and has a history spanning more than 1,000 years.
 
If you visit wearing a yukata, you will be able to feel the history and atmosphere even more.

Beauty in every season

Yasaka Shrine is a spot where you can enjoy the beauty of every season. It shows different faces throughout the year, with cherry blossoms in the spring, lush greenery in the summer, autumn leaves in the fall, and snowy scenery in the winter.
 
Summer is the best time to visit, especially if you want to wear a yukata.

Check out the charms and goshuin stamps too

Amulets and goshuin stamps are also popular at Yasaka Shrine.
 
In particular, there are summer-only charms with designs related to yukata, so be sure to check them out. They are sure to make a great souvenir.

Hanamikoji: Enjoy the Kyoto-esque scenery

Hanamikoji Street lined with traditional townhouses

Hanamikoji is an area lined with traditional townhouses and is a spot where you can enjoy the typical Kyoto scenery.
 
Just walking along the narrow alleys lined with charming buildings will give you a sense of history and culture. Walking around in a yukata will make you feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Edo period.

A special experience at a traditional restaurant or teahouse

Hanamikoji is home to many traditional restaurants and teahouses, offering a special experience. If you visit in a yukata, you can enjoy the atmosphere even more.
 
The illuminated townscape at night is especially worth seeing.

Encountering Maiko and Geiko

If you’re lucky, you might encounter a maiko or geisha at Hanamikoji. If you see their beautiful appearance, be sure to greet them politely.
 
When taking photos, it is important to follow proper etiquette.

summary

Gion is the perfect area to stroll around in a yukata, allowing you to fully enjoy its atmosphere and beauty. Tourist spots such as Gion Shirakawa, Yasaka Shrine, and Hanamikoji Street all look even more appealing when you visit them in a yukata.
 
Please use this article as a reference and spend a wonderful day in Gion. I guarantee you will create wonderful memories.