Kyoto Gion Walking Tour Discovering the Secret World of Geisha

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1

  Pontocho is one of Kyoto’s most enchanting districts, known for its narrow, lantern-lit alleyways lined with traditional wooden buildings. Situated along the Kamo River, it offers an intimate glimpse into Kyoto’s historic charm. Famous for its teahouses, upscale dining, and connections to geisha culture, Pontocho is a vibrant blend of history, artistry, and timeless elegance.

  5 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 2

  Izumo no Okuni was a legendary 17th-century performer and the founder of kabuki theater. She is thought to have begun performing her new art style of kabuki on the dry riverbed of Kamo River. Originally a shrine maiden from Izumo, she gained fame in Kyoto for her bold and innovative dances, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Her performances often featured dramatic storytelling and humor, captivating audiences and shaping Japanese theater. Okuni’s legacy lives on as a cultural icon of artistic innovation.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free
• (Pass by)

  Founded in 1610, Minamiza was one of the first officially-licensed Kabuki theatres in Japan. The current theatre was built in 1929. Kabuki is a traditional Japanese theater art known for its elaborate costumes, dramatic storytelling, and stylized performances. Originating in the 17th century, it blends dance and drama, captivating audiences with its vibrant energy and cultural richness. In 2005, kabuki theatre was proclaimed by UNESCO as an intangible heritage possessing outstanding universal value. In 2008, it was inscribed in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

  Admission ticket free
• 3

  Gion Shirakawa is a picturesque area in Kyoto, featuring a serene canal lined with weeping willows, stone-paved streets, and traditional machiya townhouses. These machiya often house exclusive tea houses where geisha and maiko entertain clients through refined performances of music, dance, and conversation. The district’s timeless charm and connection to Kyoto’s geisha culture make it a must-visit for those seeking an authentic glimpse into Japan’s heritage.

  20 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4

  Hanamikoji Street is the heart of Gion, Kyoto’s renowned geisha district. This historic street is lined with beautifully preserved machiya townhouses that host exclusive teahouses where geisha and maiko perform traditional arts for private guests. Visitors may catch a glimpse of elegantly dressed geisha or maiko hurrying between appointments, adding to the district’s allure. With its stone-paved paths, lantern-lit ambiance, and deep cultural roots, Hanamikoji offers an unforgettable journey into Japan’s refined traditions.

  20 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5

  Yasaka Shrine, founded over 1,350 years ago, is a historic Shinto shrine in Gion, known for its festivals, including the famous Gion Matsuri. Known as the “Gion Shrine,” it plays a central role in the district’s culture and traditions. Geisha often visit to pray for success in their art and well-being.

  10 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please wear comfortable walking shoes as this is a walking tour.

Show 1 more

Tags

Rating