This is the slope leading to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. I visited it on a tour. Using the tour guide's flag as a landmark, I climbed the slope, but it was crowded with many people. I couldn't go as I wanted, and I often lost sight of the flag. On the way back, people were walking while looking into the shops on both sides, so I couldn't go forward either. It was as crowded as a crowded train.

We enjoyed our time walking this street and visiting the shops (tea, silk, pottery, t-shirts, traditional craft items, and all manner of souvenirs extending across a wide price range) with our two teenage boys. Everyone found something they enjoyed. It was incredibly crowded at mid-day (as in everyone just pressed together as if on a packed train car). Definitely a place to avoid if you don’t like crowds but we had fun and enjoyed our time. We were there at lunch time and found it nearly impossible to find a place for lunch (street food was an option). One promising place had a list of 30 parties waiting for a table and an estimated 90 minute wait. We ultimately found a tea shop hidden down an alley on the second floor that offered a couple simple lunch options.

This street gets very busy during the tourist times of the day. We walked up the winding road a few days ago and it was very very busy. Be prepared to wait as tourists make the way around the area. A lot to buy and see.