Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka: Unspoiled Historical Alleys in Kyoto
Stroll around KYOTO: Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka Slopes
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Ninen-zaka Slope and Sannen-zaka Slope are iconic streets of Kyoto City, which represent Japan’s good old days. Once you get there, you can’t help taking pictures of this nostalgic and dreamy scenery.
These two slopes are approach to the famous Kiyomizudera Temple (清水寺) and also one of the main attraction of the city for the beautiful scenery.
<<When is the Best Time to Visit Kyoto Kiyomizudera Temple?>>
The historical stone paved streets are lined with traditional Japanese buildings, shops, cafes and inns, and are also surrounded by several famous landmarks such as Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社), Maruyama Park (円山公園), Yasaka-no-to Pagoda (八坂の塔), Kodaiji Zen Temple (高台寺).
Ninenzaka Slope
Connecting the north of Sannen-zaka, Ninenzaka Slope (二年坂) officially called Ninei-zaka Slope (二寧坂) is best known for its scenic view of the 5 storied Yasaka-no-to Pagoda.
The gentle sloped street was constructed in 807, and today it’s the busiest street in the city lined with numbers of shops, cafes, restaurants where Japanese designed products and Japanese cuisine are offered.
It’s a perfect spots to stroll around, enjoy shopping, sipping Match green tea or staying at one of Kyoto style traditional inns. Also a new Starbucks renovated from an old teahouse has opened on Ninen-zaka this year.
<<The world’s first “tatami” Starbucks in over 100 year-old Japanese teahouse>>
Sannenzaka Slope
Sannenzaka Slope (三年坂) officially is called Sannei-zaka Slope (産寧坂). The 100m long stone paved slope was constructed in 808, as an approach to Kiyomizudera Temple. The slope is designated as Important Preservation Districts, and its street and surrounding buildings have been preserved.
The slope was apparently named with a meaning of “safe delivery of baby”, since many worshippers visit Kiyomizudera Temple via this slope carrying their wishes.
At this slope, there are numbers of cafes with well-preserved historical buildings and pleasant gardens. Kiyomizu Sannen-zaka Museum (清水三年坂美術館) is also located on this slope, where artworks from Edo (1603–1868) and Meiji (1868–1912) period are on exhibit.
MAP:
There are more spots you should visit near Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka Slopes. On the street next to the slopes, you can take fantastic pictures of the symbol of Kyoto!
<<Check out where is the best place to take it>>
▽See a one day itinerary in Higashiyama and Gion including Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka▽
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Written by
Hi! I’m a writer and editor at Japan Web Magazine. Since 2017, I’ve written over 500 articles covering a wide range of Japan-related topics—must-visit travel spots, local food culture, helpful travel tips, seasonal events, anime, manga, and more. I travel all over Japan, from the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido to the tropical beaches of Okinawa. My hobbies, such as hunting for the best ramen shops and keeping up with the latest anime every season, help me share the magic of Japan with people from all over the world. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a Japan fan planning your dream trip, I want to help you experience the best of what this country has to offer. After traveling to many countries around the world, I still love Japan the most, and I continue to share information while making the most of my perspective as someone who was born and raised here. [Connect with me] ▷You can find more of my writing and follow my latest thoughts on Japan over on Medium. A bit more about me: [Traveler at heart] ▷Most unforgettable trip: Chichijima Island, a remote island that takes over 23 hours to reach by ferry from Tokyo! ▷Favorite neighborhood in Tokyo: Kagurazaka [Foodie life] ▷Obsessed with sushi and ramen ▷Proud foodie moment: Scored a seat at the legendary Sukiyabashi Jiro [Passionate otaku] ▷Favorite anime: March Comes in Like a Lion and Attack on Titan ▷Manga I live by: One Piece and Slam Dunk
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