Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
- French
Led by a local resident of over ten years, this walking tour is shaped by daily life in Kyoto and a deep personal passion for its history, culture, and geisha traditions.
Your guide is a History passionate and Hospitality focused (has owned a Cafe and Guesthouse and worked as Head of Hospitality at the World Expo), but above all enjoys sharing the hidden stories of Gion in a relaxed and friendly way.
As we walk at an easy pace, with time for photos and questions, you will discover how the world of geisha truly functions, their arts, rules, and daily routines.
Beyond beautiful streets and temples, this tour helps you understand the atmosphere, elegance, and living culture that make Kyoto so unique.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Exit 9 of Gion Shijo station. Second street on your right, just a few meters, let's meet next to Yamato-bashi bridge.
The last stop of our tour will be in the heart of the Geisha district, Hanamikoji dori. It is directly connected to the main road and very near our starting point so the Guide will give you indications if necessary.
Itinerary
-
1Gion Shirakawa
A peaceful ribbon of water flowing through the heart of Gion. Lined with willow trees, traditional tea houses, and stone lanterns, Shirakawa feels like a step back in time. This is one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric streets, quiet, elegant, and deeply connected to the world of geisha and old-town life.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
A small but powerful Shinto shrine hidden beside the canal. Dedicated to protection and good fortune, Tatsumi Shrine has long been prayed to by geisha and local residents. Its intimate size and quiet presence perfectly capture the spiritual side of everyday Kyoto.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Tatsumi Bridge
One of Gion’s most photogenic bridges. Framed by willow trees and traditional townhouses, Tatsumi Bridge marks the heart of the Shirakawa area. It is a timeless Kyoto scene where daily life, history, and quiet beauty naturally come together.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Chion-in Temple
One of Kyoto’s most impressive temples and the headquarters of the Jodo sect of Buddhism. Chion-in is famous for its massive wooden gate and its powerful, almost solemn atmosphere. Walking its grounds offers a moment of calm and reflection, while revealing the scale and influence of Buddhism in Japanese history.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5Maruyama Park
Kyoto’s most famous park, loved by locals for centuries. With open paths, ponds, and seasonal scenery, Maruyama Park offers a relaxed contrast after temple visits. In spring, it becomes one of the city’s most iconic cherry blossom spots, bringing Kyoto’s social and festive spirit to life.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
An elegant Western-style mansion built during the Meiji era, when Japan was opening to the world. Chourakukan reflects Kyoto’s encounter with European architecture and modern ideas, blending refinement, history, and a surprising international atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
A discreet temple tucked away from the busy streets. Daiun-in offers a quiet, almost hidden moment where visitors can feel the everyday spirituality of Kyoto. Its simple architecture and calm surroundings make it a peaceful pause along the walk through Gion.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Also known as the Daiun-in Gionkaku, this striking tower rises unexpectedly behind the temple. Topped with a heron, it reflects early 20th-century ambitions to create a modern landmark inspired by European observation towers. Its unusual presence offers a fascinating contrast between traditional Gion and Kyoto’s brief flirtation with modern experimentation.
Admission ticket free -
6Nene-no-Michi
A beautifully preserved stone path linking some of Higashiyama’s most historic temples. Named after Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, this quiet walkway captures the refined atmosphere of old Kyoto. Walking here feels timeless, with traditional walls, gentle curves, and a calm rhythm far from the crowds.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7Ninenzaka
One of Kyoto’s most iconic historic streets. Sloping gently through Higashiyama, Ninenzaka is lined with traditional wooden houses, small shops, and tea cafés. It captures the everyday beauty of old Kyoto, where architecture, daily life, and scenery blend into a perfectly preserved streetscape.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
A five-story pagoda rising above the Higashiyama streets, and one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. Surrounded by narrow lanes and traditional houses, Yasaka Pagoda creates a powerful, postcard-perfect view that defines the image of old Kyoto and its enduring Buddhist heritage.
Admission ticket free -
8Yasui-Konpiragu
A unique and deeply personal shrine known for cutting negative ties and strengthening positive ones. Visitors pass through a sacred stone to leave behind bad relationships, habits, or situations, then pray for a better path forward. It is one of Kyoto’s most emotional and memorable spiritual experiences.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Gion Corner (Pass by)
A perfect place to pause and understand the world of geisha. Surrounded by traditional architecture and cultural venues, this spot allows us to explore the refined arts of Gion, from music and dance to etiquette and daily life. Even without entering, the atmosphere and visuals make it an ideal setting to explain how the kagai districts functioned and why they still matter today.
Admission ticket free -
9Hanamikoji Street
The most iconic street in Gion and the heart of its traditional atmosphere. Lined with ochaya tea houses and refined wooden façades, Hanamikoji embodies the elegance and mystery of the geisha world. Walking here offers a rare glimpse into one of Kyoto’s most exclusive and carefully preserved districts.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Popular Countries
Company
Get our app
