Tour Details
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Product Type
- Tour
- Venues
-
- Hanami-koji
- Gion Kobu
- Minamiza Kabuki Theater
- Shirakawa Canal
Photos & Highlights
- Experience Geisha traditions in their birthplace and learn how they have shaped a large part of Japan's culture
- Led by a Kyoto local and expert
Select a date
Tour Description
The scent of incense mingles with the warm glow of lanterns, casting long shadows on the cobblestones, still warm from the day. As you enter the heart of Kyoto’s geisha culture, you hear laughter spilling from hidden tea houses. Welcome to Gion, a district that draws you in with its traditional wooden machiya merchant houses, stunning shrines and temples, and centuries-old geisha and kabuki traditions.
Begin at Yasaka Shrine, one of the most iconic and revered Shinto shrines. Here you will learn about Omikuji, whose fortunes are written on strips of paper, and see its reverent prayer facilities. Step into the serenity of Kennin-ji, the city's oldest Zen temple, and the location of the burial site of Eisai, the monk who introduced Zen to Japan. Can you feel the weight of history as you walk in the footsteps of the past?
Begin at Yasaka Shrine, one of the most iconic and revered Shinto shrines. Here you will learn about Omikuji, whose fortunes are written on strips of paper, and see its reverent prayer facilities. Step into the serenity of Kennin-ji, the city's oldest Zen temple, and the location of the burial site of Eisai, the monk who introduced Zen to Japan. Can you feel the weight of history as you walk in the footsteps of the past?
Allow Miyagawa-cho to unfold before you: the heart of geisha Kyoto. Here, the chance to glimpse a maiko, a geisha apprentice, flitting through the streets and alleyways becomes a reality. Visit Minamiza Kabuki Theater, the main destination for kabuki. Unfamiliar with kabuki? You’re in for a treat. Let your guide unlock the secrets of this dramatic theater, igniting your imagination with tales of captivating costumes in a kaleidoscope of colors and intense, acrobatic movements from the actors, all in the name of portraying tales of love or betrayal.
Move into Gion Higashi, a district built on the former residence of the Zeze samurai clan. Slow down among the graceful willows that line a serene canal, and if you’re lucky, take in the iconic cherry blossoms that dance in the spring breeze. Cinema fans will appreciate the stop on Tatsumi Bridge, a destination that was replicated in Memoirs of a Geisha.
Cross the river to ascend Pontocho, a geisha district pulsating with life. This sleepy town by day comes alive at night. Don’t be surprised if you feel drawn, as if by an invisible force, to the aroma of delicious food and the shouts of lively chatter. Here, Kyoto invites you to linger and explore long after the tour ends.
Here your tour ends, but the magic of Gion beckons you to explore further, to lose yourself in its enchanting alleyways and discover your own hidden stories.
- You crave uncovering hidden gems and can’t wait to wander forgotten alleyways, stumbling upon quaint shops brimming with local treasures and discovering charming details that show themselves only to those who venture off the beaten path.
- You want to explore awe-inspiring shrines and temples, guided by a local who feels like a friend. Gain local insight to Kyoto’s cultural tapestry through its iconic architecture.
- You would like a respectful and cultural initiation to geisha culture, offering you the chance to witness a glimpse of the elegant and artistic geisha or maiko as they go to and from their engagements.
- Hanami-koji - Hanamikoji, or "Blossom Viewing Lane", stands as a time capsule in Kyoto's historic landscape, situated east of Gion Shijo Station
- Gion Kobu - is a district of Higashiyama-ku, originating as an entertainment district in the Sengoku period, in front of Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine)
- Minamiza Kabuki Theater - Minami-za is the primary kabuki theatre in Kyoto. It was founded in 1610 as Shijō Minami-za.
- Shirakawa Canal - It is the perfect place for a peaceful walk along weeping cherry trees, willow trees, old machiya and tea houses
What is the difference between this tour and the VIP Geisha Experience Tour? Can they be booked together?
The "VIP Geisha Experience Tour" and the "Geisha District Night Tour: Exploring Gion" offer distinct experiences for travelers interested in the geisha culture of Kyoto. The first one provides an exclusive, intimate encounter where participants can directly interact with a geisha, learning about her life, traditions, and the art form in a private setting. This tour emphasizes personal engagement and a deep dive into the cultural nuances of geisha life.
On the other hand, the "Geisha District Night Tour: Exploring Gion" offers a more general exploration of Kyoto's geisha districts, focusing on the geisha community's historical and cultural context. This tour includes a guided walk through the atmospheric streets of Gion at dusk, providing insights into the geisha tradition against the backdrop of Kyoto's beautiful twilight.
The two tours can be combined - we recommend you let us know in advance by contacting our team to allow us to set them up correctly and to grant you a smooth and unforgettable experience.
The "VIP Geisha Experience Tour" and the "Geisha District Night Tour: Exploring Gion" offer distinct experiences for travelers interested in the geisha culture of Kyoto. The first one provides an exclusive, intimate encounter where participants can directly interact with a geisha, learning about her life, traditions, and the art form in a private setting. This tour emphasizes personal engagement and a deep dive into the cultural nuances of geisha life.
On the other hand, the "Geisha District Night Tour: Exploring Gion" offers a more general exploration of Kyoto's geisha districts, focusing on the geisha community's historical and cultural context. This tour includes a guided walk through the atmospheric streets of Gion at dusk, providing insights into the geisha tradition against the backdrop of Kyoto's beautiful twilight.
The two tours can be combined - we recommend you let us know in advance by contacting our team to allow us to set them up correctly and to grant you a smooth and unforgettable experience.
Can this walk be scheduled at a different time?
For private walks, if you would prefer an earlier start time, please contact us or leave a note during booking and we can arrange this for you.
Is it okay to tip my guide in Japan?
Yes. Context clients generally tip anywhere from 10-25% of the purchase price of a personal service such as this, depending on the quality of the experience and their tipping habits.
Transport
Transport
- This tour has an optional meeting point transfer if you'd like a private car to pick you up from your accommodation. If you choose to add this service, please add the address to your accommodation in the Additional Details section
We understand that some of our valued guests may have mobility concerns, and we want to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout your tour. If there are any accessibility concerns that your tour guide will need to be aware of, please let our team know at the time of booking.
Where You'll Start
–
235 Reviews
Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.
Very knowledgable and was able to tie in what we were seeing with the history…lots of examples. Really nice guy and his English was perfect. Thank you!!!
Sally
Nov. 8, 2024
It was a dream come true. A beautiful experience with a knowledgeable and personable guide
Fran phyllis
Nov. 5, 2024
Gavin led an extremely interesting, personalized private tour for 4 of us through 3 geisha districts. We walked in back alleys with no other tourists in sight. As a professor who studies geisha history and culture, Gavin is among a rarefied group that actually participates in their world. His insights, explanations and photos made for an extraordinary experience.
Nancy
Nov. 4, 2024
