In all our travels, my hubby has been the certified planner while I have been busy either being a paparazzi or being a spoiled brat. So, after our visit to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, we walked slightly north as I complained how hot summer days are in Kyoto. I was about to fret more but was completely stunned when we found ourselves exploring little corners of one of Kyoto’s most beautiful neighborhoods – the Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka.

One of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Kyoto, Japan : Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka 二念坂・産寧坂.
One of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Kyoto, Japan : Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka 二念坂・産寧坂.

 

It is a hilly vicinity polished with old wooden houses, traditional tea houses, Japanese restaurants and souvenir shops. It was most interesting to see every structure’s own unique character and wonder of  the neighborhood’s sloping areas and its narrow alleys. However, it is a very famous destination and is mostly packed with tourists and students so taking a time to pause and check on small corners is quite a challenge.

The slopes at Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka 二念坂・産寧坂, one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Kyoto, Japan.
The slopes at Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka 二念坂・産寧坂, one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Kyoto, Japan.

 

It is said that Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka means ‘Two-Year Hill’ and ‘Three-Year Hill’ referring to the ancient imperial years when they were first laid out. It is also believed that one will die within two years if that person falls down on Ninen-zaka and three years when one falls down on San’nen-zaka.

I do not remember falling that day. I really hope I did not.

One of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Kyoto, Japan polished with old wooden houses, traditional tea houses, Japanese restaurants and souvenir shops : Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka 二念坂・産寧坂.
One of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Kyoto, Japan polished with old wooden houses, traditional tea houses, Japanese restaurants and souvenir shops : Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka 二念坂・産寧坂.
One of the beautiful wooden traditional tea houses at Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka 二念坂・産寧坂 in Kyoto, Japan.
One of the beautiful wooden traditional tea houses at Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka 二念坂・産寧坂 in Kyoto, Japan.

 

 

Check on Google Street View below for an additional information and perspective on Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka 二念坂・産寧坂 : 

 

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