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What comes to mind when you picture the timeless beauty of Kyoto? Perhaps stone-paved streets, black wooden fences lining traditional townhouses, fluttering shop curtains in the breeze, and the subtle fragrance of incense or matcha in the air—all leading to a historic temple in the distance.
There is a place in Kyoto where this very image comes to life, not just in your imagination, but as a path you can actually walk.
That place is Ichinenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Sanneizaka.
These three historic slopes leading to Kiyomizu Temple offer a walk through the very landscapes people envision when they think of “old Kyoto.”
This article introduces the charm of these scenic paths where the essence of Kyoto lives on, and shares how to best walk them to fully immerse yourself in their nostalgic beauty.
The paths featured in this article—Ichinenzaka, Ninenzaka, Sanneizaka, and Yasaka Street—are actually connected in a continuous route. They are often enjoyed as a walking course alongside a visit to Kiyomizu Temple. Let’s first understand their layout.
Most visitors simply head up Kiyomizu-zaka, the shortest route to Kiyomizu Temple. That’s perfectly fine, but if you wish to experience Kyoto’s most picturesque streets, we recommend walking through the routes introduced below on your way to the temple.
When approaching from the direction of Kōdai-ji Temple or Yasaka Shrine, the first path you encounter is Ichinenzaka. This quaint slope is less than 100 meters long and attracts fewer tourists, offering a peaceful stroll through a timeless setting.
There are a few theories behind the name, but one prevailing explanation is that it comes from its location before Ninenzaka—hence, “Ichinen.” The name is written not as “一年” (one year), but as “一念” (one thought), symbolizing the heartfelt prayers offered while ascending to Kiyomizu Temple.
Though only established in 1992, the path’s stone pavement and traditional townhouses blend seamlessly with the historic surroundings, giving it the charm of a place untouched by time.
Along Ichinenzaka, you’ll find traditional craft stores like Kurafuto Ichinenzaka, as well as tranquil cafes like 362 Cafe set in century-old machiya houses. You can also discover unique specialty shops like Kanaami - Tsuji, a long-established shop specializing in handcrafted wire mesh products—offering an authentic glimpse into Kyoto’s cultural depth.
Ninenzaka is a stone-paved slope lined with machiya-style shops selling traditional Japanese crafts, sweets, and stylish cafés. Every corner here radiates Kyoto charm. This slope connects seamlessly with Ichinenzaka.
There are several theories regarding the name “Ninenzaka.” One suggests the slope was established in the 2nd year of the Daidō era (807 AD). Another attributes the name to its location below Sanneizaka, hence “Ninen” (two-year slope).
The path is a continuous string of scenic views that make you want to pause and snap photos at every step. The sight of visitors strolling by in kimono or yukata, contrasted against the traditional townhouses, enhances the romantic Kyoto atmosphere.
Whether you’re browsing charming shops or pausing for a matcha dessert, Ninenzaka invites you to enjoy the art of leisurely detouring.
Sanneizaka is a gently curving stone-paved slope where the graceful lines of traditional townhouses blend harmoniously with the road. It’s the kind of scenery that naturally draws your camera. This area is also home to many souvenir shops, dessert cafés, and craft stores, adding to the pleasure of exploring. It connects directly with Ninenzaka.
Among the various theories behind the name “Sanneizaka,” the most popular is one tied to prayers for safe childbirth. It’s said that Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, would walk up this slope to pray at Kiyomizu Temple, hoping for a child while residing at Kōdai-ji Temple. The name thus reflects the act of “san” (birth) being “nei” (prayed for).
The interplay of stone pathways and townhouses perfectly embodies the Kyoto aesthetic and draws many visitors eager to capture it in photos.
Sanneizaka is a place where every sight feels like a memorable scene from your journey. Walking on these stone paths lets you physically feel the soul of ancient Kyoto.
After strolling through Sanneizaka, don’t miss Yasaka Street. This stone-paved road runs east to west through the Higashiyama district and features a striking view of the Hōkan-ji Temple’s five-story pagoda, affectionately known as the “Yasaka Pagoda,” rising at its center.
The street is lined with charming cafes, dessert shops, and artisan stores set in traditional townhouses. Walking here instantly lifts your spirits. One of the most popular spots is the photo point with the Yasaka Pagoda in the background. The gentle slope of the street and the layout of the buildings create a perfect composition. The scene of “turning back to see the pagoda” is featured frequently in tourist brochures and social media, making it a true icon of Kyoto.
Since Yasaka Street itself is relatively flat, it’s an easy and comfortable walk. It’s also a chance to step away from the bustling energy of Sanneizaka and enjoy a more tranquil, refined atmosphere. Early mornings and twilight hours are especially recommended for their peaceful vibe and enhanced beauty.
Yasaka Street continues directly from Sanneizaka. If you follow the road downward (without turning toward Ninenzaka), the path naturally becomes Yasaka Street.
Visiting Yasaka Street along with Sanneizaka enhances the experience and lets you appreciate the beauty of Kyoto’s historic cityscape even more deeply.
Ichinenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Sanneizaka each have their own unique charm, yet together they form a continuous path. Walking through all three allows you to experience the gentle transitions and subtle allure of Kyoto’s historic streets.
We recommend starting from Ichinenzaka and making your way to Kiyomizu Temple as the final destination. Like a story unfolding, the scenery gradually shifts from quiet serenity to lively charm, deepening your appreciation for Kyoto’s timeless beauty.
And on your way back, take Yasaka Street to snap some final photos at its picture-perfect spots. This is the ultimate walking course to and from Kiyomizu Temple.
Though these paths all bear the name “zaka” (slope), they are mostly gentle and include many flat stretches. The well-maintained paths are easy to walk even in a rented kimono, making them ideal for a leisurely stroll. With ever-changing scenery and a natural lift in your mood, this walking route is highly recommended.
“I want to walk through the beautiful, historic streets of Kyoto.”
That thought led me to do some research before visiting, but I couldn’t quite find the right answer.
However, upon arriving in Kyoto, I stumbled upon this path. Its nostalgic streets, vibrant energy, and quiet townhouses told me I had found the most beautiful way to experience Kyoto.
There’s a beauty to old Kyoto that only reveals itself when you walk it.
Ichinenzaka, Ninenzaka, and Sanneizaka are all distinct in character and history, yet when walked in succession, they merge into one seamless story—Kyoto’s eternal charm, told through every step.
If you’re heading to Kyoto, be sure to walk these paths: Ichinenzaka, Ninenzaka, Sanneizaka, and Yasaka Street.
