• Gion Shirakawa - As you stroll through this picturesque area of Gion, a guide will share insights about the geishas of Kyoto and their way of life.

• Tatsumi Daimyojin Shrine - Tatsumi Daimyojin is a Shinto shrine in Kyoto, dedicated to a deity of protection, good fortune, and safety, particularly for travelers and warriors. Established during the Heian period (794-1185), it is situated in the Tatsumi area. Historically, it has connections to the imperial family and samurai. The shrine showcases classic Shinto architecture and is celebrated for its scenic beauty, especially during cherry blossom season.

• Tatsumi Bridge - Tatsumi Bridge is a quaint traditional bridge nestled in a corner of Gion, evoking a cinematic scene. The vicinity of Tatsumi Bridge is adorned with charming wooden machiya houses, traditional tea houses, and the serene Shirakawa Canal. The area is especially stunning during cherry blossom season and in the evenings when lanterns light up the historic streets, creating a magical ambiance.

• Hanamikoji Street - Hanamikoji Street is a prominent street in Gion. This delightful street is lined with traditional wooden machiya houses, tea houses, shops, and restaurants, radiating an aura of timeless elegance. Hanamikoji is particularly famous for its well-preserved architecture and its ties to Kyoto’s geisha culture, where you might see geiko (Kyoto’s geisha) and maiko walking gracefully.

• Gion Corner - Gion Corner is a distinctive cultural venue that presents a variety of traditional art performances, showcasing Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. The venue offers a thorough introduction to the traditional arts, often performed by skilled artists. This venue is a favorite among both Japanese and international visitors, providing a convenient and accessible way to appreciate the richness of Kyoto’s artistic traditions.

• Kennin-ji Temple - The oldest Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, located adjacent to the geisha district of Gion. The tour will not include entering the temple buildings but will involve walking through the temple grounds like locals to experience Zen.

• Miyagawasuji - Delight in a professional performance at a traditional tea house. The tour guide will provide translations, allowing for a deeper understanding of the culture and history, and enabling conversations with Maiko and the teahouse owner to hear their authentic perspectives.

• Gion walking tour (70-80 minutes)
• Live performance by Maiko and former Geiko (1-2 dances)
• Photo session with a maiko
• Conversation with a maiko and venue owner
• Q&A session
• Local guide

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the secretive world of Kyoto’s geisha culture with this exceptional tour. Start with a guided stroll through the enchanting streets of Gion, home to maiko and Geiko who live, train, and perform there. Your knowledgeable local guide will reveal the rich history and traditions of this enigmatic world, enhancing your understanding before the main event. In the second part, enjoy exclusive access to a private Ochaya (teahouse) — a venue so exclusive that even most Japanese people are rarely permitted entry. Here, you will be warmly greeted by a maiko and a former Geiko. Delight in an elegant live performance, capture memorable photos, and engage in personal conversations. The true highlight is listening to their genuine stories and cultural insights — offering a rare, authentic connection with Japan’s living traditions.

• No children under 10 years old
• You MUST wear socks at the venue of the performance.
• Photography and video recording are allowed only during the performance and the photo session. If you wish to upload any photos on social media, please obtain direct permission from the Maiko beforehand.
• As this is a walking tour, we recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
• The tour will take place rain or shine.
• No wet cloth and socks are allowed at the venue on rainy days (Please use an umbrella during the walk).
• Services not listed (for example: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from the meeting spot, Extra food and drink, Other personal expenses) are not included in the tour.
• Refundable for cancellations due to organizers’ reasons; no refunds for incidental hotel or bullet train costs.
• The tour may be a bit longer than expected depending on the day
• The Maiko performance will held on at exclusive private house’s 2nd floor, we can only access there with stairs.

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