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Offered languages
- English
Step into the heart of Kyoto’s most exclusive district—a world normally closed to the public.Begin with a guided walk through Gion’s atmospheric streets. Your expert guide will unveil the hidden history and traditions of the Maiko and Geiko. Understanding these cultural nuances first ensures you truly appreciate the elegance of the experience to follow.
Gain rare access to a private Ochaya (teahouse) that operates on a strict "Ichigen-san Okotowari" (Members Only) policy. Entry is impossible without a personal introduction; even for locals, this is a "once-in-a-lifetime" sanctuary.
Inside, enjoy a graceful dance performance by a Maiko and engage in candid conversation with her and a former Geiko. This is your chance to ask questions, take photos, and form a genuine connection with Japan’s living traditions—a rare privilege reserved for only a select few.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
End a tour at a special private house (venue)
Itinerary
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1Gion Shirakawa
While walking through this beautiful part of Gion, a guide will tell you about who geishas in Kyoto are and their lifestyle .
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2Tatsumi Daimyojin Shrine
Tatsumi Daimyojin is a Shinto shrine in Kyoto, dedicated to a deity of protection, good fortune, and safety, especially for travelers and warriors. It was founded during the Heian period (794-1185) and is located in the Tatsumi area. Historically, it has been linked to the imperial family and samurai. The shrine features typical Shinto architecture and is known for its scenic beauty, particularly during cherry blossom season.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Tatsumi Bridge (Pass by)
Tatsumi Bridge is a small traditional bridge located in a corner of Gion that feels like stepping into a scene from a movie. The area around Tatsumi Bridge is filled with charming wooden machiya houses, traditional tea houses, and the tranquil Shirakawa Canal. The area is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season and in the evenings when the lanterns illuminate the historic streets, offering a magical atmosphere.
Admission ticket free -
3Hanamikoji Street
Hanamikoji Street is a main street in Gion. This charming street is lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, shops and restaurants, exuding an atmosphere of old-world elegance. Hanami-koji is especially renowned for its well-preserved architecture and its association with Kyoto’s geisha culture, where you might spot geiko (geisha in Kyoto) and maiko gracefully walking.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Gion Corner (Pass by)
Gion Corner is a unique cultural venue which showcases a variety of traditional art performances that highlight Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. The venue provides a comprehensive introduction to the traditional arts, often performed by skilled practitioners. This venue is a beloved spot for both Japanese and international tourists, offering a convenient and accessible way to appreciate the depth of Kyoto’s artistic traditions.
Admission ticket free -
Kennin-ji Temple (Pass by)
The oldest Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto located next to a geisha district Gion. We will not enter the temple buildings but walk through the temple precinct like locals and feel Zen.
Admission ticket free -
4
Enjoy the professional performance at a traditional tea house. The tour guide will translate for you, so you can understand the culture, and history deeper, also you'll be able to have a conversation with Maiko and a teahouse owner to know the real voice.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- No children under 10 years old
- You MUST wear socks at the venue of the performance.
- Photography and video recording are allowed only during the performance and the photo session. If you wish to upload any photos on social media, please obtain direct permission from the Maiko beforehand.
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- No children under 10 years old
- You MUST wear socks at the venue of the performance.
- Photography and video recording are allowed only during the performance and the photo session. If you wish to upload any photos on social media, please obtain direct permission from the Maiko beforehand.
- As this is a walking tour, we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
- No wet cloth and socks are allowed at the venue on rainy days (Please use an umbrella during the walk).
- Services not listed (for example: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from the meeting spot, Extra food and drink, Other personal expenses) are not included in the tour.
- Refundable for cancellations due to organizers' reasons; no refunds for incidental hotel or bullet train costs.
- The tour may be a bit longer than expected depending on the day
- The Maiko performance will held on at exclusive private house’s 2nd floor, we can only access there with stairs.
- The tour will take place rain or shine.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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