Art District - Furumonzen and Shinmonzen

If you are looking for traditional Japanese products, these are the streets for you. They are nicknamed "art streets," and both tourists and locals flock there for their art galleries and craft shops. While shop owners and gallery owners tend to specialize in more traditional art, you'll also find more modern works and articles there. Special engraving collectors will find plenty to occupy themselves as there are several galleries of Ukiyo-e (or "floating world pictures" in English). Even casual buyers can go there, as prices start at just 4,000 yen. If you're interested in Japanese pottery, this is also the place to go: the imari style is always something to be proud of. You'll likely come across the path of the owner of one of the many ryokan that can be found in Kyoto, because this is where they go to buy traditional crockery. Among twenty stores, you are sure to find something you love: all the different elements of Japanese crafts are represented, from painted displays to teaspoons, available in a variety of styles. price

If you're not a fan of antiques, don't worry - these three streets have a lot more to offer. You can head into the kimono, incense, dye or even tile shops to find some authentic and unusual souvenirs! There are also several tea rooms where you can attend a traditional tea ceremony. Stop by one of the gourmet restaurants for food in the purest of Japanese traditions. Shinmonzen has also been designated a traditional 'Geisha and Maiko Quarter' by the Japanese government, so there are a number of traditional houses and teahouses nearby. There are houses that house geisha and maiko, and maybe you'll be lucky enough to see one of them outside or even see them through the window: a nice way to get a glimpse of what Japan is all about. Japan, and especially Kyoto, was a few centuries ago. So this charming old district is the perfect place for a stroll to explore ancient Japan. Walking around Shinmonzen-dori and the surrounding area will give you a real glimpse into Japan's classical past, as well as a comfortable stroll into the present.