Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, with their charming old streets typical of Kyoto, feel like a time slip when you visit! It’s a popular spot where many tourists flock every day. Both sides of the road are lined with cute traditional crafts and souvenir shops, making it a delight just to look around.
This article will share the highlights of Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka Path along with some personal photographs.
Geting to Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka from Kyoto Station
The most convenient way to reach Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka Path from Kyoto Station is by bus, which does not require transfers.
The bus terminal is located right outside the central exit of Kyoto Station.
Look for the sign marked “D2”.
It takes about 15-20 minutes from Kyoto Station.
Highlights of Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka
The streets around Ninenzaka offer picturesque views of Kyoto from every angle.
On the way to Ninenzaka, you can see the beautiful five-story pagoda known as Hokanji Temple, which is a popular photo spot!
At the southern end of Ninenzaka, about 100 meters up a flight of stairs, you’ll find Sannenzaka, where traditional Japanese townscapes continue. Both Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka have been designated as an “Important Traditional Building Preservation District” by Kyoto Prefecture. Now, let’s check out some recommended shops on Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka.
Starbucks Coffee Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya Branch
One of the popular spots on Ninenzaka is the “Starbucks Coffee Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya.” The shop is a renovated traditional townhouse over 100 years old, and at first glance, it doesn’t look like a Starbucks, but it blends in beautifully with the surrounding streetscape.
The interior has a special atmosphere, different from any other Starbucks.
On the second floor, there’s a tatami space where you can relax and enjoy the traditional Japanese ambiance. When I visited, it was pretty lively, so I couldn’t sit on the tatami, but I still had a calming coffee break in this Japanese-style space.
Marun
Located on Sannenzaka, “Marun” offers a variety of colorful and cute sweets and goods! It’s the perfect place to find souvenirs.
Their Japanese sake with a Mount Fuji design is unique.
There was also a rare candy shaped like a bento box (a traditional Japanese lunch box).
It seems that amulets are often bought in bulk by Asian tourists from overseas.
The traditional-patterned earrings looked distinctive and adorable, and they’re quite popular among young women.
Konnyaku Shabon
Between Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, you’ll find “Konjac Soap,” an interesting soap shop.
Believe it or not, this soap is made from konjac and is plant-based!
There are many different scents available.
According to the staff, the lavender scent is the most popular, and it smelled really nice. You can also try it out at the store.
Information of Ninenzaka & Sanneizaka
Nearby tourist spots include Yasaka Koshindo Temple, Kenninzi Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. If you’re interested, please check out the articles below.