Kawaramachi Kyoto
Kyoto’s charm not only comes from countless historical buildings but also relies on its modern urban atmosphere, especially its bustling nightlife in Kawaramachi. Kawaramachi locates in the center of Kyoto and consists of main roads including Shijo-dori, Kiyamachi Street, Karasuma Avenue, and Nishikikoji-dori. Like Namba in Osaka and Ginza in Tokyo, Kawaramachi Kyoto is a gathering area of numerous shopping malls, craft stores, western & Japanese restaurants, and entertainment places for fun like bars and anime-themed stores. All of these make it the best place to experience Kyoto’s nightlife.Top Things to Do around Kawaramachi at Night
Although Kawaramachi is a shopping and dining center, it is very close to famous attractions like Yasaka Shrine and Gion on its east. After dining in Kawaramachi, why not go to below places to have fun:1. Take a Walk by Kamo River
The scenic Kamo River just flows by the end of Kawaramachi. Walking along the quiet River at sunset with ancient wooden houses on the bank, you will feel relaxed.
Kamo River
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2. See Lightening Lanterns in Yasaka Shrine
Crossing Kamo River and walking for another 10 minutes, you will reach Yasaka Shrine. Different from the grandeur building seen during the daytime, the Shrine appear more religious and mysterious, especially when the lanterns are lighten.|
Yasaka Shrine
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3. Come across Geisha in Gion
Geisha in Gion is a symbol of Kyoto. At night, these girls with traditional costume and exquisite makeup would appear in the street, going to perform dancing and singing.
Kawaramachi - Best Place to Taste Kyoto Food
1. Nishiki Market – Cheap & Delicious Kyoto Snacks
Nishiki Market is called Kyoto’s Kitchen for its 400 years’ history and local specialties sold in over 130 stores. In the market, you can not only taste the freshest seafood like salmon, sea urchin, octopus, and oyster, but also buy local products like Matcha desserts, chestnuts, fried fish cakes, and black bean tea. It should be noted that most stores here close early, around 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. Therefore the Market is more suitable for having lunch than dinner.
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2. Pontocho – Bars and Restaurants in Traditional Japanese Wooden Houses
Pontocho is a special cultural protection area in Kyoto. In the long narrow alley stand rows of wooden houses with red lanterns hanging highly. During the daytime, the area shows the beauty of tranquility; while at night, tourists seeking delicious food would flood into its bars and restaurants. Then the alley would exude a lively air.
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3. Kiyamachi – Enjoy the Quite Atmosphere of Riverside
Kiyamachi is very close to Pontocho, merely minutes’ walk. This street is featured by a long river parallel to it. There are ramen shops, barbeque restaurants, and cafes built along the river. In addition, this street is also known for blooming Sakura every spring.Also a Shopping Paradise in Kyoto
1. Teramachi – Gathering Area of Century-Old Shops
Teramachi also owns a series of century-old stores for you to explore, like the below ones:
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Teramachi Shopping Restaurant
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