"Toriimaecho" is the name of the neighborhood that faces the Torii(gate) of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. Although this area is distanced from the subway station, bus transportation to Shijo and Kyoto Station is convenient. If you are a fan of cycling it is a pleasant area to explore on bike.
If you prefer walking, you will find that there are many supermarkets and unique shops in the neighborhood, such as a tofu specialty store "Kitaura Tofuten" that is popular among the locals. There are also plenty of stylish cafes and bakeries to relax in the morning or afternoon.
On the 25th of every month, a fleamarket called "Tenjinsan" gathers about 1,000 stalls stand side by side around the Kitano Tenmangu area. It is where you can go for treasure hunt for souvenirs to bring back home. These all add up to make a wonderful environment for enjoying the unique life-style in Kyoto.
