Kyoto: Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Culture Tour

5.0
(1,307 reviews)
Kyoto, Japan

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

[Highlights]
・Chance to Spot a Geisha
・Visit a 1,000-Year-Old Shrine
・See Edo-Period Townhouses
・Explore quiet lanes and hidden gems
・Get Local Tips & Recommendations

We begin at Gion Shirakawa, a scenic riverside lined with willow trees, traditional tea houses, and stone-paved paths. After soaking in its beauty, we visit historical shrines and hidden spots, walking through quiet backstreets with few tourists.

Along the way, Edo-period wooden townhouses reveal the charm of old Kyoto.

The tour ends on Hanamikoji Street, the heart of the geisha district, where you may catch a glimpse of a geisha on her way to an evening engagement. Here, you will learn about the strict training of geisha, their graceful dances, and the craftsmanship behind their beautiful kimonos and hairstyles, giving you a glimpse into Gion’s traditional culture.

What's Included

Local Guide

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
McDonald's - Shijo-ohashi Bridge

Our guide will be ready to meet you at the side road of McDonald's Shijo Ohashi Store.(As the front of Macdonald gets very busy) They will be holding a sign with our logo “Local Guide Stars”, so it will be easy to find.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Pontocho

    A historic gourmet street

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Kamogawa River (Pass by)

    A local chill-out spot by the Kamogawa River

    Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Gion Shirakawa

    See Edo-Period Townhouses

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Yasaka Shrine

    Visit a 1,000-Year-Old Shrine

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Sannenzaka Ninenzaka

    If you don’t take a photo on this street, it might feel like you haven’t really been to Kyoto. They say if you fall here, you’ll die in two years — but your guide will explain the truth behind this eerie rumor. Plus, there are plenty of great shops along the way!

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Hokan-ji Temple

    The most photogenic spot in Kyoto

    20 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Yasui-Konpiragu

    Experience Shinto Worship

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Hanamikoji Street

    A street where you might have a chance to see a geisha. Your guide will share the history and hidden stories behind the world of geisha.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Local Guide Stars

Tags

Private and Luxury
Architecture Tours
Walking Tours
Excellent Quality
Best Conversion
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
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Curated Catalog
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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