Nathan S.
Yelp
Favourite part of Kyoto.
Confession, when I first visited here, I actually thought I was in Gion. Once I went to Gion and was disappointed by how crowded and touristy it was, I really learnt to appreciate this place a lot more. It's not full of tourists or tourist traps, but it's an actual Edo era neighbourhood in Kyoto where locals dine, hang out and have meetings. The buildings and restaurants are all mainly traditional and many restaurants will require you to take off your shoes, so beware of that. Also, many of the restaurants will have you sit on the floor, traditional Japanese style, so if that's something you aren't able to do, beware.
The Hard Rock Cafe is in this area too, if you're into collecting pins or souvenirs from there.