Maiko Geiko

Explore the wonderfully atmospheric Gion district at night Gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s culture and traditions from a friendly and knowledgeable guide Wander around traditional backstreets, visit offbeat temples and shrines, and even get to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko (apprentice geiko) Book at any time – last-minute bookings are accepted! Enjoy the intimacy of a small group tour (no more than 9 people)

If you have only one day in Kyoto and want to see all the top 10 must-see spots of Kyoto, this tour is the best for you. A professional local guide shows you the best, comfortable and convenient way to the spots. And you can enjoy walking along with the beautiful sceneries, paths, and back alleys only the local people know. We use taxis 3-4 times to save you time and energy. This tour is a mixture of public transport and taxis. Thanks to taxis and a friendly local professional guide, you can visit the 10 most famous attractions such as the Fushimi Inari shrine (thousands of Torii gate), Golden Pavilion, Kiyomizu temple (with huge balcony), bamboo forest, Geisha district, and so on. If you check the spots you can visit on this tour, you can notice that all must-see points in Kyoto are included!! Please enjoy the top ten spots with the beautiful stories of your guide.

Discover Kyoto’s captivating geisha district, Gion, with a professional guide who knows every corner of this historic area. Wander through picturesque alleys, admire timeless architecture and discover hidden gems. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Kyoto's historic geisha district. In the first half of this group cultural tour, walking through the charming streets of Gion. Gain insight into Kyoto's rich cultural heritage and traditional charm. Learn about the lifestyle of Maiko (an apprentice Geisha) and Geisha (Geiko in Kyoto) and uncover the fascinating history of this renowned geisha district from a knowledgeable local guide. In the second half of the tour, visit a special private house where you will be warmly welcomed by a Maiko and a venue's owner (a former geiko). Enjoy their fascinating live performance, engage in conversation and take pictures with the maiko. Experience the true essence of geisha culture and create unforgettable memories with this tour.

One of the most popular walking tours in Japan. As the pioneer of such walking tours, it has long been loved by people since 2007, and more than 100,000 guests have joined since then. Gion is Kyoto’s most traditional district where the culture of Kagai, the world of Maiko-san and Geiko-san is still alive. Though many tourists come to Gion, it can be difficult to grasp the magnitude and beauty of Gion completely. Your guide will explain the history of Kagai, the lives of Maiko-san and Geiko-san and even take you to the backstreets of Gion. Walk with a well-experienced knowledgeable, licensed English-speaking guide and discover the depths of the Old Capital, Kyoto.

An invitation to the graceful world of geiko and maiko in Gion woven over three centuries The Gion Kobu quarter of Kyoto’s Kagai district embodies a centuries-old history. Although times have changed, ancient traditions continue to be passed down with great care. The Gion Kagai Art Museum, established in historic Gion-machi, is the only facility in the world where visitors can discover the sophisticated culture of geiko and maiko. Experience the pride of Kyoto’s Kagai culture and the spirit of our predecessors. -Performance time is approximately 15 minutes (2 songs). -Kyomai dance performances are usually performed by 1 maiko or geiko. On some days, the 3rd and 4th sessions may be performed by 2. -If you cannot find available ticket here, Please visit our website. In the Kagai districts of Kyoto, women who perform traditional dance in ozashiki banquet rooms and on stage and entertain guests are referred to as geiko (and not geisha). Women training to become geiko are called maiko.

Get introduced to a real Maiko or Geiko (Geisha) of Kyoto for a rare chance to learn, indulge the senses, and be charmed. Watch her dance, interact, ask questions, and take commemorative photos. – Highlights – ・ Great view of Maiko's Traditional Dances ・ Brief introduction on Maiko ・ Question and Answer Time ・ Commemorative Photo Session with your own camera or smartphone camera

Enjoy a live performance of a traditional dance accompanied by authentic shamisen and singing by maiko or geiko and a former geiko who is also a teahouse owner, and a matcha green tea experience while learning the proper etiquette. As the tour is limited to 10 people, customers can enjoy a leisurely conversation with the maiko or geiko and the owner of the teahouse. Feel free to take a commemorative photo with the maiko or geiko. [Only February 2025 Tours] You will also enter to the Gion Kagai Art Museum, where visitors can gain a deeper insight into the culture of kagai, traditional entertainment districts featuring the culture of geiko and maiko. This walking tour is accompanied by a English speaking guide.

Looking for an evening entertainment in Kyoto? Experience an unforgettable evening in Kyoto with our hassle-free evening bus tour. Enjoy a mesmerizing maiko performance while savoring an authentic Kyoto-style Kaiseki dinner. After pickup at Kyoto Station, the bus will transport you to the renowned Shozan Resort Kyoto. Here, you'll be treated to a captivating maiko dinner show. A maiko is an apprentice geiko (distinct from a geisha) in Kyoto, skilled in performing traditional songs, dances, and playing Japanese instruments to entertain guests. After the show, take a leisurely stroll through the Japanese garden and admire the traditional architecture. The tour also includes a brief stop at Higashiyama-sancho Park, famous for its enchanting night views of Kyoto. The tour concludes with drop-offs at Kyoto Station or select hotels: Kyoto Tokyu Hotel, RIHGA Royal Hotel Kyoto, and Hotel Keihan Kyoto Grande. Join us for an evening of cultural immersion and scenic beauty.

Geisha traditions are traced to the spiritual center of Kyoto, where they were specified as geiko and maiko. Such a lovely tradition can hardly ever be enjoyed privately. From centuries ago, geiko and maiko parties have been given privately only for limited members of society. This tour makes it possible for visitors to truly experience the essence of geiko and maiko in an authentic manner. During the event, English-speaking guides will escort you around the geiko and maiko district, to be followed by a dinner or party arrangement lasting two hours. Since geiko or maiko are privately arranged only for your group, you will have the chance to fully exchange conversations with them and hear their stories which would normally not be told to the public.

Kyoto is famed for its shrines and temples, which are full of countless unique stories that will astonish you, making you fall in love with and connect yourself to their ancient history. I am deeply fascinated by the living traditions called Geisha or Geiko hidden behind the sliding doors of Gion. The mysterious world of Geisha can seem exclusive and challenging to discover, so on my experience we will take tea break, talking with Maiko, Geisha apprentice and I will reveal the entertainers who adhere to this traditional lifestyle, their history, rituals, and nuances of the art-form. ･At the beginning part we will discuss the living traditions, their lifestyle and history. ･We would announce like "Ladies and gentle men…" and she, Maiko will show up. First we will watch her dancing. ･Then we will talk with and ask her questions, having a cup of tea.

Embark on a nighttime walking tour through the mystical streets of Gion, Kyoto, and experience the tranquil beauty of its ancient temples and shrines. As the city’s narrow alleyways grow quiet under the evening sky, feel transported to a different world, where history and spirituality blend seamlessly with the peaceful atmosphere. Begin in the serene backstreets of Gion, where you’ll explore beautifully illuminated temples and visit hidden shrines nestled deep within the area. In the zen gardens of a historic temple, the soft sounds of nature will fill the air, creating a profound sense of peace. Along the way, learn about the traditions of Kyoto’s famous geiko and maiko (geisha and apprentice geisha), gaining insight into the delicate art form that continues to define the city’s cultural landscape. It may be difficult for someone in a wheelchair to participate.

This is a 2 hours walking tour in the historic area of Gion that is well known for preserving the old architecture. In Gion, you can see the traditional houses, tea houses and old streets of Gion. What makes this tour unique? 1- Within 2 hours, you can experience the historic and cultural essense beauty of of Kyoto historic area of Gion in a private tour. 2- This tour is a walking private tour and can be customized based on your request. 3- Understanding the culture and life in Japan from a foreign prospective. Tour itinerary is planned to cover the top spots of Gion. Itinerary is shown here, however, you can still customize it in arrangement with the guide. 17:00 Meeting at the pickup place (or in Gion area). 17:30 Izumo no Okuni statue and Kaboki drama explanation 18:00 Shinbashi street, Geisha and Maiko explanation, Chionin temple gate 18:30 Maruyama Park and Yasaka shrine 18:45 Hanamikoji Street, Teahouse, Geisha and Maiko spotting areas 19:00 Pontocho and tour finish

Pedaling along the backstreets, you can uncover the little-known treasures of Kyoto on 3 hours electric assisted bike tour with an authorized English speaking guide. Kyoto is full with historical and culture. In such a city, ancient traditional daily practices are remained in the backstreets, where usually not put in guide book.  Getting around by bike is very comfortable, you can enjoy with no traffic jam even in a busy tourist season. Put your kickstand up, and let’s cycle on quiet backstreets and find the real Kyoto with a guide who provides historical and cultural insight about Kyoto. No show will be regarded as cancellation, and it will be impossible to refund the fee or alteration of the booking.

I'll be happy to introduce Kyoto’s hidden culture and Kagai (‘Flower Town’Entertainment District) where Maiko and Geiko lives, while paying the greatest respect to the traditional culture of the district’s strict. We have saying "Ichigen-san Okotowari" which means even though Japanese people are not allowed to get in Ochaya for the first sight. Someone familiar with the place and has trust from them needs to introduce you. This is the reason why I take time for dinner with you and explain the details and culture before getting in Ochaya. I believe that would help you enjoy the time with Maiko and Geiko more, and of corse, the perfect dine experience will also be such a wonderful time! The perfect restaurants are prepared, however, I can also accompany the restaurant you would like to dine in. Please let me know anything! It's a private tour for YOU!

Experience the enchanting Gion nightlife on a concise guided walking tour of Kyoto, unfolding its beauty in just three hours. Witness the mesmerizing scene as the sun sets, illuminating the streets with lanterns. Explore traditional backstreets, elegant restaurants, and historic teahouses. Delve into offbeat temples and shrines, with a chance to glimpse geiko or maiko. Traverse Hanamikoji Street and visit Yasaka Shrine with a knowledgeable guide, absorbing captivating narratives about the area's rich history and culture. This curated experience blends exploration, cultural insights, and the allure of Gion's nocturnal charm.

Discover Kyoto's geisha culture with our immersive dinner tour. Enjoy a sumptuous meal while being entertained by a skilled geisha or maiko, who will perform traditional dances, play musical instruments, and engage in elegant conversation. Our knowledgeable guide will provide fascinating insights into the life and customs of geisha, explaining their historical significance and the intricate artistry involved in their training and performances. You'll also learn about the beautiful city of Kyoto, its history, and cultural heritage. Designed to be both educational and enjoyable, this tour offers a rare opportunity to experience a significant aspect of Japanese culture in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Please note that depending on the availability of Geiko and Maiko, we may not be able to arrange this experience. Additionally, for group tours, it may be difficult to proceed if there are fewer than three participants. In such cases, we will notify you at least one week in advance.

If you have only a half day and want to optimize your experience in Kyoto, this tour is the best for you. 7 must-see spots in east and south of Kyoto, including one hidden gem!! A professional local guide shows you the most comfortable and convenient way to the spots. You can enjoy walking along with the beautiful sceneries, paths, and back alleys that only the local people know. Please enjoy the top 7 spots with the beautiful stories of your guide. *This tour uses both taxis and public transportation to save your time and energy. *We also welcome Japanese who are studying English and want to visit top 7 must-see points in Kyoto.

Because it's a private tour, you can ask the local Japanese everything you want to know, everything you want to ask! While it is fun enough to simply stroll around Kyoto on your own, having a tour guide will make everything you see more interesting. If you want to try to eat some but doesn't know the name, ask your own guide:)! If you want to know more info about Kyoto, where to eat, what to do, ask your guide!:) If you have a place you would like to visit, please contact us in advance and we can make arrangements.