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Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka 三年坂

Checked October 2026 · next check January 2027 · 1 post since 2012

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Visiting Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka today

  • What it is: Two stone-paved slopes of old wooden townhouses below Kiyomizu-dera, now lined with about 60 shops, cafes and restaurants. In 1972 the area became Kyoto's first historic preservation district.
  • Getting there: City Bus 206 or 100 from Kyoto Station to Kiyomizu-michi or Gojozaka (¥230), then about 10 minutes' walk uphill. The slopes link Kiyomizu-dera with Kodaiji and Yasaka Shrine.
  • Hours: Public streets, open any time. Most shops open from about 9:00 or 10:00 and close by early evening.
  • Admission: Free
  • Tip: The steps are steep and get very crowded in the middle of the day. Come early in the morning, keep to the side for photos, and don't eat while walking.
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Lovely in spring and autumn; early morning is quietest.

Checked against: Sannenzaka – Wikipedia · Gion & Kiyomizu – Kyoto City Official Travel Guide · Things to Keep in Mind while Exploring Kyoto (Kyoto City Official Travel Guide). Check opening times and prices before you go.

Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka on Shibuya246

Photos and stories from our visits, as they were written at the time.

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