Gion Kinana

Some of the Smoothest Ice Cream You'll Ever Have

Gion Kinana is kind of hidden, blending in with the local area of Gion with its modest, traditional storefront. The place's location is just off the main walkway as well, in an area where signs asking for no photography, so there is a faint feeling of being out of place in that area. The seating area of the establishment is upstairs, where you are given a menu of all the desserts they have available. Their most famous option has a soy flavour, and it is also their smoothest item. I had a flight of three flavours: soy, black sesame, and standard vanilla. All were delicious and you wouldn't be able to tell they were frozen if they weren't cold. Be warned: I've heard the shop gets incredibly packed in the summer with local people high school and university students, so be prepared to literally rub elbows and if you visit at that time.