Sannenzaka

Tuesday, December 17, 2019 Updated

Shopping Street of Ancient Kyoto

Sannenzaka, along with Ninenzaka, are a pair of streets filled with traditional wooden tea houses and shops that depict what the streets of Kyoto looked like in ancient times. You won't find any power lines over head and with such a traditional atmosphere, this is the spot to go for photos of classic Japan. The shops along the street sell hand-made, traditional Japanese goods like chopsticks, incense, parasols, good luck charms, and other great souvenirs to take home after a Japan tour.

Waiting at the top of Sannenzaka is Kiyomizu Temple, but you won't have to go into the temple to appreciate the scenic view from the top of the street. There's a superstition to Sannenzaka that if you slip while walking the steps, you will die within 3 years, so be sure to walk carefully as you go!

Treats from Traditional Japan

While you make your way up to Kiyomizu Temple, there are multiple tea houses to stop along before reaching the top of the street. Japan Deluxe Tours recommends trying the green tea ice cream during the spring cherry blossom season when the temperature is nice and warm, while warm tea with baumkuchen is perfect during the winter holidays. There's also great options for Kyoto snacks like dango and mochi along this rustic street. If you're looking for something a bit more modern, you can't go wrong with green tea ice cream in the summer.

Unlike the other cities of modern Japan, Sannenzaka is the perfect way to experience what Kyoto was like during the era of Samurai arts and Geisha entertainers. Enjoy this traditional Kyoto street along with Ninenzaka during our best selling Spring or Anime Japan tours through Kyoto, or extend your Japan vacation to include time exploring the highlights of Japan.