Look, this picturesque street in Kyoto is one of those places you're going to end up on whether you plan to or not - it's basically Kyoto's greatest hits in street form. Yes, it'll be packed with tourists taking photos in rental kimonos (like, a LOT of rental kimonos), but honestly? That's part of the experience.

The preserved traditional buildings and stone steps are genuinely beautiful, and there's something magical about walking the same path that people have used for centuries. Just embrace the crowd situation - treat it like part of the atmosphere, like you're walking through old Kyoto during a festival.

You'll find everything from high-end ceramics to quirky souvenirs, and yes, you're probably going to buy something. Between Kodaiji Temple and Yasaka Shrine, this sloping street is basically a crash course in classic Kyoto. Sometimes the super-touristy spots are touristy for a good reason!