Nara-style souvenirs, with deer motifs everywhere. From small treats to cute trinkets, everything makes you want to stop and take another look. Browsing and shopping, eating and taking a break—it’s such a relaxing stop on a trip to Nara!
Yumekaze Plaza in front of Todaiji Temple Gate | Review by Gina C
Other Reviews by Gina C
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Yasaka Shrine
The shrine’s deities are Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Kushiinadahime-no-Mikoto, and Yahashira-no-Mikogami, and it is the head shrine of approximately 2,300 Yasaka Shrine and related shrines with Susanoo-no-Mikoto enshrined scattered throughout Japan.
The shrine has a very solemn atmosphere, but it doesn’t feel too formal. It feels especially pleasant to walk around the grounds, take your time worshipping, and look at the traditional architecture. Once the lanterns light up at night, it becomes a different kind of enchanting sight.
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Hanamikoji-dori Street
Hanami-koji Street is a main street crossing Gion north to south from Sanjo to Kenninji Temple. It is “koji” (small alley), but the street is wide and lively with lots of stores hosting many tourists. The Teahouse district still maintains the traditional ambience in the district from Shijo-dori to the south. The original teahouses were on Shijo-dori and to the north of it, which were gathered to the current southern district in Meiji and Taisho Periods.
Strolling slowly along the stone-paved street, you'll see traditional machiya townhouses lining both sides. There are no flashy signs, which makes it even easier to appreciate Kyoto's understated elegance. I couldn't help slowing down to take in the street views and snap some photos. Every corner felt like a Japanese landscape painting.
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Yojiya Shijo Kawaramachi Store
Opened in February 2025 in Kyoto’s bustling Kawaramachi district-one of the city’s top shopping and sightseeing areas-this new-concept store brings together the beloved Yojiya skincare brand, best known for its iconic oil blotting papers, and a relaxing café space, following in the footsteps of its Sagano Arashiyama and Kiyomizu locations.
The most famous product is the oil-blotting paper. The small packet takes up hardly any space in your bag, so when your face gets oily while you're out shopping or traveling, you can easily pull it out and use it. It absorbs oil naturally without feeling like it's wiping off all your makeup, making it very convenient to carry around.
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