What You Will Do
Take a tour of Kyoto's famous Gion district and learn all about the mysterious geisha traditions of the area. Your local guide will tell you about the traditions from an insider perspective about Geisha culture. At the same time you'll explore Gion's beautiful streets, temples, shrines, and shops, for a comprehensive overview of historic Kyoto. The mysterious world of Geisha can seem exclusive and challenging to discover, but on my experience
・In the first half we will walk in Gion and discuss the living traditions, their lifestyle and history.
・In the second half we will meet an apprentice geisha, Maiko. First we will talk with and ask her questions. Also we will watch her dancing, having one of these, a cup of tea or lunch or dinner together.
*Picture and filming of Geisha is fine but not allowed to post it in public.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
I'll be at the Exit 4 of Gion Shijo station aboveground right in front of Izumo-no-Okuni statue and right next to Shijo bridge. You will find me with a signboard "WALKING TOUR".
1
Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni
15 minutes
Let's learn what Kabuki is and the feminine beginning of the theater. You maybe know the current Kabuki is performed just by men but you wouldn’t know the beginning was just by women.
2
Minamiza : The Kabuki Theater of Kyoto
10 minutes
Look at the actual architecture of the oldest Kabuki theater and hear the story of the impressive corroboration of VR and Kabuki.
3
Gion Shirakawa
15 minutes
The largest Geisha district called "Gion". Gion Shirakawa is the most beautiful part of Gion, old fashioned streets, buildings and traditional theaters on the beautiful riverside. Let’s learn what the mysterious female entertainer "Geisha" is.
4
Tatsumi-jinja Shrine (Tatsumi Dai-myojin)
15 minutes
At this Shinto shrine let's learn what Japanese native religion "Shinto" is. It is said in Japan there are 8 million gods.
5
Hanamikoji Street
10 minutes
The main street of Gion. If you are lucky you would be able to see geisha walking around.
6
Kennin-ji Temple
15 minutes
Zen Buddhist temple was built in 1202. Let's talk about what Zen Buddhism is.
7
Kyoto Ebisu Shrine
15 minutes
Mr. Ebisu, the god of wealth in Shinto resides in the shrine that was built in 1202 and has been worshipped by local business owners.
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