Kyoto Street Life

What’s the Story?

Wander the hushed lanes of Miyagawacho and the outskirts of Gion, where the streets quietly exude Kyoto tradition. On this photo workshop we will uncover the retro charm of a bygone era, capture the unhurried rhythm of daily local life, and practice a mindful approach to street photography away from the hectic free-for-all of the urban high streets. The area is also scattered with temples and shrines that invite us to photograph the details of Kyoto spiritual life.

What We’ll Shoot

We’ll hone our street photography skills to seize subtle, candid moments that reveal the soul of local life. Our main concern will be seeking and recognizing the subtle decisive moments that are common to the placid environs of residential Kyoto. Focusing on patient observation, our images will tell the story of the neighborhood in subtle ways. On this photo workshop our creative process is encapsulated by the old idiom, “Ichi-go-ichi-e,” or “on time, one meeting” — each moment a fleeting drop in the river of time.

Where We’ll Explore

Our exploration starts in Miyagawacho, a riverside district with narrow alleys and traditional Kyoto houses. We will meander through its labyrinthine streets, passing local business and places of worship. Eventually we will end up in the southern reaches of Gion, as we pass through Zenkyo-an Temple and Ebisu Shrine. We will end our walk via Hanamikoji-dori on Shijo Avenue, in the heart of Gion.