Gion Shirakawa, Kyoto

Oftentimes, the best way to explore a city is just to follow your curiosity and walk down the unknown streets whilst keeping your eyes wide open along the way. The historic Shirakawa street, cutting through the Gion district in parallel with the eponymous river canal, is ideally suited for this style of exploration. Just as many other roads in the area, it is flanked by tall leafy willow trees and dotted with fancy establishments – traditional restaurants and ochaya (geisha houses) – most of which overlook the canal.

Contrary to the other touristy parts of Kyoto, Shirakawa is slightly off the beaten paths, away from the main shopping and dining strips, and as such offers some quiet respite. This is without detriment, however, to the dining options available here, which are plentiful. Here, in addition to a nice meal or tea, guests are also treated to a great view, which is particularly picturesque in spring when the cherry trees are in blossom.

During the blooming period, a stroll via cobbled Shirakawa is truly awe-inspiring, be it in day's light or night's illumination. Complete with a striking backdrop of the canal, the soothing warm light pouring from the restaurants, machiya houses, Tatsumi Daimyojin shrine, or the hotspot Tatsumi bridge, create a truly indelible impression. No wonder Shirakawa is often used as a set for films and TV dramas, for there is hardly a better place to capture the spirit of Japan – simple, historical, calming, and warming. A very special place not to be missed!