Kyoto Gion Walking Tour Discovering the Secret World of Geisha

Kyoto , Japan

Kyoto Gion Walking Tour Discovering the Secret World of Geisha

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About this experience

Explore the enchanting streets of Kyoto’s Gion district on this walking tour, delving into the fascinating world of geisha. Learn about their history, culture, and refined lifestyle as you stroll past traditional machiya houses and exclusive teahouses where Geisha entertain. Discover the rich history of Gion, a district that has preserved Kyoto’s elegant traditions for centuries. You may even see a Geisha or Maiko heading to an evening appointment, enhancing your experience.

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Kyoto Gion Walking Tour Discovering the Secret World of Geisha

What's included

Professional, friendly English-speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 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.

Stop 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.

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.

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.

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.

Stop 6

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.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

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Important information

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.

Wheel chair not accessible

Meeting point

Please meet in front of McDonald's.
Our guide will be holding a sign.
Please be sure to arrive early.
Our guide cannot make the other guest wait for late comers.

About Kyoto

Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.

Top Attractions

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.

Religious 2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike) Free

Kiyomizu-dera

A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.

Religious 1-2 hours ¥400

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)

Gion

Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).

Cultural 1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event) Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kaiseki Ryori

A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.

Dinner Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.

Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)

A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.

Matcha Desserts

Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Obanzai

Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the mountains Cycling through the countryside Rafting on the Hozu River Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic walks in gardens and parks Temple and shrine visits Traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.

15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn) 59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (UTC+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto

By train

Kyoto Station

By bus

Kyoto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gion Higashiyama Arashiyama Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)

Day trips

Nara

40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day

Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.

Uji

20 km from Kyoto • Half day

Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).

Kurama and Kibune

25 km from Kyoto • Full day

Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.

Festivals

Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th) Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd Aoi Matsuri • May 15th

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.