Gion Geisha District: Kyoto's Cultural Gem

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kyoto’s Maiko and Geiko on this cultural walking tour of Gion. Meet these fascinating artists in person and learn about the rich history of the renowned Geisha district.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • 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…
What's Included
  • Photo session with a maiko
  • Local guide
  • Gion walking tour
  • Live performance by Maiko and a former Geiko
Additional Information

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…

Location
Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.9
(299 Ratings)
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Roz_c
May 25, 2025
The three hour experience... - The three hour experience was wonderful. Our tour guide around the geisha district was very knowledgeable and friendly. We saw a geisha in the streets before we watched a beautiful geisha performance.
Review provided by Viator
Sightsee41911118468
May 25, 2025
Recomendado - We learnt a lot of interesting facts. Our tour guide Takuma Goda was enthusiastic, he express himself pretty well with a well known of all information, and he was very funny. The tour covered our expectations.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Warren
May 22, 2025
WONDERFUL Walking Tour! - Mika was our tour guide and did a FANTASTIC job. She was kind, courteous, informative and kept our walking tour moving forward. We got very lucky to see an actual “Geiko” or Geisha. We were able to explore and learn about the Meiko and Geiko lifestyle and learn from a Tea House Owner/Meiko house mother. A Meiko did a performance that was lovely! There was no “tea” served. The performance however was in a tea house. This was very enjoyable and I highly recommend it!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Glenna722772
May 20, 2025
Incredibly beautiful maiko performance - This tour with Takuma was one of the highlights for me during my visit to Kyoto. He is so friendly, knows so much about the history and culture of Kyoto, and is so happy to share that knowledge. I learned so much about geisha culture. I never saw a maiko performance before and it was incredibly beautiful! We watched the maiko perform a tradtional dance and then she answered our questions afteward. It was a fascinating glimpse into an ancient tradition. Takuma is so friendly and kind and he enjoys teaching others about Kyoto. Great experience!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Emmata4790wn
May 19, 2025
Best Geisha tour in Kyoto - The Maiko/Geisha Walking Tour was perfect for learning more about the Gion area and the history, traditions and the life of a Geisha. Our friendly guide Takuma explained everything very well and took us to the best spots. He also had some good recommendations for us around the area. We even had the luck of spotting a Geisha on the street! After the tour we were enjoying a splendid Maiko dancing show. And thereafter we had the chance to interview the young Maiko and her boarding house mother. It was an amazing experience!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jml21380
May 19, 2025
Very interesting activities - Very well organized and very interesting activity. We learned a lot about the lives and training of geisha apprentices. We were also able to speak directly with one of them who was easily accessible. The only downside: the somewhat lengthy introduction (monologue...) of the head of the centre.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Andrew_s
May 18, 2025
An amazing experience!... - An amazing experience! Everyone from the tour company was kind and helpful. This was a very unique opportunity and made our trip to Japan extra special.
Review provided by Viator
Franzp813
May 17, 2025
Amazing Geisha Tour. - If you're looking for an exceptional Meika tour experience, look no further than Takuma! From beginning to end, the tour was absolutely delightful and exceeded all expectations. I can't recommend it enough!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Karenmilne1
May 17, 2025
Geisha/ Maiko - the importance of their history. - A great experience with a well informed guide named Takuma. Takuma had a wealth of knowledge that he shared with our small group. It was great to get an opportunity to walk down small alleys and to hear about the history of these boarding houses and tea houses. A must do experience that gives a visitor an opportunity to speak with Maiko and to watch a traditional performance.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
967tatjanap
May 16, 2025
Thank you for a very special cultural experience! - Wonderful tour with an absolutely amazing performance. It was truly special to experience the history and traditions. Our guide, Ayako, was truly special, very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and fun looking after visitors in a very caring manner.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $119
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).