Kamishichiken

KamishiChiken

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Experience Kamishichiken, Kyoto's oldest Gion district, where traditional culture and performing arts thrive. Explore its charming streets or enjoy events like the 'Kitano Odori' at the Kamishichiken Kaburenjo (theater).

Tourist destination images of Kamishichiken(1)

Tourist destination images of Kamishichiken(2)

Overview

Kamishichiken is renowned as the oldest of Kyoto's five Gion districts. Its origins date back to the Muromachi period, to seven teahouses built during the reconstruction of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. The shrine was a popular place of worship, attracting numerous visitors, for whom the teahouses were established. Later, Kamishichiken flourished as the inner sanctum of Nishijin, the textile district, hosting many geiko and maiko. Unlike Gion Kobu or Miyagawa-cho, Kamishichiken developed primarily around teahouses. This allows visitors to interact with geiko in teahouses and enjoy meals there. The Kamishichiken Kaburenjo hosts the 'Kitano Odori', the first of the Gion districts' springtime performances, showcasing the year's best from its geiko and maiko. Summer brings a beer garden, offering refreshing evenings, while autumn features the 'Jūkai,' a performance by geiko and maiko. This event is a showcase of their practiced skills and offers audience participation. Kamishichiken captivates visitors with its blend of history, tradition, and vibrant modern energy, inviting exploration of its charming streets, attendance at events like the 'Kitano Odori', and unique experiences like engaging with geiko at a teahouse.

Historic Sites
Shrines and Temples
Cultural Assets

Basic Information

Address: 742, Masarimicho, Imadegawa-dori, Shichihonmatsu Nishi-iri, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto Search for tourist attractions in Kyoto

Access: From JR Kyoto Station: Take City Bus No. 50 (30-minute ride) and get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae or Kamishichiken. It's a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. From JR Nijo Station: Take City Bus No. 55 (11-minute ride) and get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae or Kamishichiken. It's a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. From JR Enmachi Station: Take City Bus No. 203 (northbound) (15-minute ride) and get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae or Kamishichiken. It's a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. From Hankyu Saiin Station: Take City Bus No. 203 (northbound) (20-minute ride) and get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae or Kamishichiken. It's a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. From Hankyu Shijo Karasuma Station: Take City Bus No. 55 (25-minute ride) and get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae or Kamishichiken. It's a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. From Keihan Demachiyanagi Station: Take City Bus No. 203 (westbound) (20-minute ride) and get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae or Kamishichiken. It's a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. From Kyoto City Subway Imadegawa Station: Take City Bus No. 203 (westbound) (8-minute ride) and get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae or Kamishichiken. It's a 3-minute walk from the bus stop. From Keifuku (Randen) Kitano-Shiraumecho Station: Walk east along Imadegawa-dori Street for 10 minutes. *There is no parking available. Please use public transportation. Show route