Guided Gion Tour: Kyoto’s Geisha District

Embark on a private walking tour through Kyoto’s historic Gion district, immersing yourself in the traditional architecture, tea houses, and old streets. Customize your itinerary and gain a unique perspective on Japanese culture and life.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Gion - Gion area in Kyoto is a very famous old and historic area, as it is well known for preserving the old architecture and beauty. You may be lucky to catch up a Geisha in Hanami street.

Highlights

Chionin temple gate, Maruyama park, Yasaka shrine , Haname Street and Shinbashi street.

Teahouse, Geisha and Maiko explanation and spotting areas, Minamiza Kabuki Theatre

  • Statue of Izumo no Okuni - Discover the cultural heritage of Kyoto with a visit to the Izumo no Okuni Statue, dedicated to the pioneering figure who founded Kabuki theater. Izumo no Okuni revolutionized Japanese performing arts in the early 17th century, and her statue stands as a tribute to her legacy.

Experience a fascinating explanation of Kabuki Drama, a traditional Japanese theater form known for its dramatic storytelling, elaborate costumes, and dynamic performances. Learn about its historical origins, unique performance style, and its significant impact on Japanese culture. This tour offers an insightful glimpse into the world of Kabuki and its influential founder.

  • Chion-in Temple - Visit the impressive Chionin Temple Gate, a grand entrance to one of Kyoto’s most revered Zen temples. Admire its massive wooden structure and intricate carvings, which reflect the temple’s rich heritage and spiritual importance.

  • Yasaka Shrine - Just a short walk away, explore Yasaka Shrine, a vibrant Shinto shrine renowned for its lively festivals and stunning lantern-lit pathways. This historic shrine is a focal point of Kyoto’s cultural and spiritual life, providing a rich and immersive experience into traditional Japanese heritage.

  • Maruyama Park - Discover the serene beauty of Maruyama Park, a lush green oasis in Kyoto perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing break. The park features picturesque ponds, seasonal cherry blossoms, and tranquil paths, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.

  • Hanamikoji Street - Wander down Hanamikoji Street, the charming heart of Kyoto’s historic geisha district. This picturesque street is lined with traditional teahouses and elegant wooden machiya houses, offering a glimpse into the city’s cultural past.

Enjoy a visit to a classic teahouse, where you can experience the authentic ambiance and appreciate the art of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.

Explore popular geisha and maiko spotting areas, where you might catch a glimpse of these graceful performers in their elaborate costumes. This tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Kyoto’s enchanting traditional culture and the world of geisha.

What's Included
  • Guiding and management fee
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

This is a 2-hour walking tour in the historic Gion area, renowned for its well-preserved old architecture. In Gion, you can explore traditional houses, tea houses, and ancient streets.

What makes this tour unique?

  1. In just 2 hours, you can immerse yourself in the historic and cultural essence of Kyoto’s Gion area on a private tour.
  2. This is a private walking tour that can be tailored to your preferences.
  3. Gain insights into Japanese culture and life from a foreign perspective.

The tour itinerary is designed to cover the top spots in Gion. While the itinerary is outlined below, it can still be customized in coordination with the guide.

  • 17:00: Meet at the pickup location (or in the Gion area).
  • 17:30: Visit the Izumo no Okuni statue and learn about Kabuki drama.
  • 18:00: Walk along Shinbashi Street, with explanations about Geisha and Maiko, and visit the Chionin Temple gate.
  • 18:30: Explore Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine.
  • 18:45: Stroll down Hanamikoji Street, see teahouses, and spot Geisha and Maiko.
  • 19:00: Visit Pontocho and conclude the tour.
Location
Gion
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
3.7
(3 Ratings)
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Maritzabf
Apr 4, 2023
Our guide was fun and well informed - It was a fun experience and we learned much about Gion. We went to different areas of town. We saw the temples and shrines as well as a cemetery. Walked the geisha district and the red district too. Saw the kabuki theater and learned about the first kabuki performer. I recommend this tour
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Joseph_m
Apr 10, 2023
Maiko Sighting - Seeing a genuine Maiko, which is not a guaranteed part of the tour, walking in the Gion district of Kyoto.
Review provided by Viator
Sue_g
Mar 30, 2023
Was not very happy with tour - I felt the tour guide was not really present not very informative and not very friendly was happy when tour was over
Review provided by Viator
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