Kyoto’s Gion district is famed for its abundance of ochaya (teahouses) which serve as venues for geisha to entertain their guests (fun fact: geisha are called geiko in Kyoto). The preserved nagaya traditional houses and tiny alleyways that branch off each block conjure up images of olden times and an keen nostalgia for an era we never experienced.
Yet the part of Shijo-dori that cuts through the district is an unabashed tourism thoroughfare. There are all the souvenirs and snacks you could want. Needless to say, it’s not my go-to area for finding something to eat.
But my companion said she needed to eat – and quickly. And she said she wanted to try ramen. Now, I knew that Gion Duck Noodles was close by, but a) this wasn’t going to be quick due to its popularity, and b) I feel it’s an overrated gimmick (my thoughts are in this post).
A quick Google Maps search and I selected the nearest ramen place with a decent-looking noods and set off on the 3-minute walk.
Little did I know, I was about to discover Gion’s best kept secret.