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Gion

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Travel guide
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Travel guide

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Best time to visit Gion

Data source：Meteostat
Last updated：2025-09

Weather in Gion throughout the year

  • Spring (March–May): Average 10.5–19.3°C, mild and comfortable climate, but with relatively high rainfall, especially in April and May. Common activities: Flower viewing, strolling through Gion district, visiting Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt, rain gear essential.
  • Summer (June–August): Average 23.7–29.5°C, hot and humid, with significant rainfall. Common activities: Experiencing Gion night market, enjoying Kawadoko cuisine, visiting Fushimi Inari Shrine. Recommended clothing: Breathable and light clothing, sun hat, sunscreen.
  • Autumn (September–November): Average 19.1–27.1°C, pleasant climate, rainfall gradually decreases. Common activities: Autumn leaves viewing, tasting autumn-limited delicacies, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Gion. Recommended clothing: Light jacket, long-sleeved shirt.
  • Winter (December–February): Average 5.1–7.2°C, cold and dry, with low rainfall. Common activities: Hot spring bathing, experiencing traditional Japanese culture, tasting winter-limited cuisine. Recommended clothing: Warm jacket, scarf, gloves, hat.

Weather in Gion

Annual average temperature: approx. 17°C / Annual rainfall: approx. 1656 mm / Summer humidity: 70%–80% / Rainiest month: August

Gion weather by month

Month
Temperature (°C)
Rainfall (mm)
January
5.1°C
47.4
February
6.1°C
72.5
March
10.5°C
131.3
April
16.4°C
182.2
May
19.3°C
199.8
June
23.7°C
248.8
July
28.9°C
176
August
29.5°C
254.7
September
27.1°C
127.3
October
19.1°C
105.2
November
13.9°C
91.9
December
7.2°C
19.2

7-day weather forecast for Gion

11/2
Monday
Patchy rain nearby
16.9°C/11.5°C
11/3
Tuesday
Sunny
18.1°C/8.9°C
11/4
Wednesday
Overcast
18.9°C/8°C
11/5
Thursday
Overcast
20.4°C/14.4°C
11/6
Friday
Patchy rain nearby
19°C/11.3°C
11/7
Saturday
Patchy rain nearby
12.8°C/7.1°C
11/8
Sunday
Patchy rain nearby
14.3°C/6.4°C

Gion travel FAQs and useful info

What is Gion famous for?

Gion is Kyoto's most iconic geisha district and the heart of geiko and maiko culture. You can often see them walking to their appointments, especially in the early evening. The district features many preserved machiya houses—traditional wooden townhouses—giving the area a timeless and historic charm. Gion is home to exclusive, traditional tea houses where guests are entertained by geiko and maiko. The area offers a range of exquisite dining experiences, including kaiseki, a traditional multi-course meal focused on seasonal ingredients.

Is Gion worth visiting in Kyoto?

Gion is widely recognized as one of Kyoto's most iconic districts, known for its geisha culture and well-preserved streetscapes of teahouses, shops and restaurants.

Is Gion still closed to tourists?

No, Gion is not closed to tourists; only specific narrow, private alleys were restricted starting in April 2024 due to disrespectful behavior from tourists. Tourists are still welcome to explore main streets like Hanamikoji and visit public areas like Yasaka Shrine. Signs will indicate restricted areas, and unauthorized entry to these private alleys can result in a fine of up to 10,000 yen.

What does the name Gion mean?

In Japan, Gion is the name of a famous district in Kyoto, known for its traditional architecture, teahouses, restaurants, and geiko. The name Gion is derived from the Indian term for a grove where Buddha delivered teachings, which became associated with the Yasaka Shrine, located in the district. The district is home to the Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's most famous annual festivals.

What can I see and do in Gion?

In Gion, you can wander through preserved machiya townhouses, catch a glimpse of geiko and maiko, explore charming streets like Hanami-koji, visit the Yasaka Shrine, and indulge in exquisite kaiseki dining experiences. The area offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture and atmosphere.