Kiyamachi-dōri (Kyoto, Japan)

What makes this place special?

At a Glance

Kiyamachi-dōri is a historic street in Kyoto that runs north to south along the eastern bank of the Takase River, from Nijō to Shichijō. It was laid out in 1611 when Suminokura Ryōi dug the Takase River, and its name comes from the timber and charcoal storehouses of the early Edo period, since kiya means 'wood stores'.

By the 18th century, travelers and merchants passing through had brought restaurants, inns and bars to the street. At the end of the Edo period it served as a secret meeting place for imperial loyalists such as Sakamoto Ryōma, and monuments in the entertainment district recall them. Cherry trees now line the river, and the stretch between Sanjō and Shijō holds tea and coffee shops, bars and restaurants serving Japanese and international cooking.