Kyoto
Mystical Gion: explore the iconic geisha district
Traditions & Heritage • 3 hours
5.0
(191)
Mystical Gion: explore the iconic geisha district
Explore Kyoto's most mesmerizing district, see stunning temples, traditional shops, and maybe even the odd geisha hurrying to her next appointment
What makes this experience special
Key highlights
- As dusk falls, experience the best of Gion’s nightlife scene with a local insider to guide you
- Explore the areas that make the district famous, like Gion Corner and Hanamikoji-dori street
- See the side of Gion reserved for locals – like sunset viewing Kamo River, just before the lanterns are lit
- Let your local host answer any questions you have about the elusive lives of geishas
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
Private and personalized experience
3 hours with a Host
Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options)
What’s not included
Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)
Meeting point
The host will be waiting in front of Starbucks Coffee - Kyoto Sanjo-ohashi BridgeCancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat to bring
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
- Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.
How your day could unfold
A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you mostWhat you’ll do
When Kyoto is sleeping, Gion is only just waking up. Begin your evening eating Obanzai or Mishin Soba in a tiny izakaya bar as the sun sets over the Kamo River. As the last light disappears from the sky, Gion’s lanterns cast a glow on intricate wood-built architecture, and the city takes on an ethereal appeal, made even more dreamlike by beautiful geishas floating by.
At Gion Corner, catch a quick show featuring seven of Kyoto’s performing arts, from comedy to dance, or grab a drink at a bar with other salarymen at a popular local haunt. Wind down as you share small plates shared with your host at an intimate izakaya, and take a dreamy stroll down tranquil Shinbashi-dori Street, home to Tatsumi Jinja shrine and centuries-old teahouses.
1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
Surrounded by centuries of tradition
Night Lights & Lantern Legends
Charmed in Gion
Hidden shrines and heartfelt connections
Golden Hour at Kiyomizu-dera
Ice Cream Break in Old Kyoto
Morning Light & Timeless Streets
Pagoda Strolls & Smiles All Around
Fushimi Inari, the Insider Way
Family Roots at Yasaka Shrine
A Table Full of Stories
New Friends in Old Streets
Tempura & Togetherness
The Fox Shrine Crew
Sannenzaka Strolls & Big Grins
Wagyu, Wasabi & Wonderful Company
Kyoto’s Rooftops & Reflections
Walking through the iconic Fushimi Inari gates
Big smiles and even bigger stories
Soft Steps & Serene Views
From ancient torii gates to new friendships
A wintery evening stroll and some of the best street snacks in the city
Wandering through a forest of giants
A day filled with culture and laughter
Wandering Kyoto’s shopping arcades
Golden hour, cherry blossoms, and two friends soaking up Kyoto’s quiet charm
A Cozy Culinary Moment tucked into a quiet Kyoto alley
The perfect view to end a perfect Kyoto day.
Family adventures down Kyoto’s most charming slope
Pagoda Postcard Vibes
Lunch with a local – and two new ramen lovers officially converted
Nothing bonds like good food and great company in Kyoto
Walking through these thousand torii gates
A Ryokan-Style Feast
Tucked away in Kyoto’s Arashiyama bamboo grove
Playful Spirits at Fushimi Inari
Matcha Dreams Come True
Cocktails with a view
A walk through time
Rural charm and cultural calm
A peaceful pause with Kannon
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Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.
recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
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What travelers think of this experience
David
Apr 2025
Our guide Hiro was great and showed us amazing locations off the beaten path, with less crowds. Amazing experience!
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David
Apr 2025
Hiro was great!
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Natalie
Apr 2025
Hiro was polite, patient, and knowledgeable of the area. Easy going and good sense of humor! He showed us a most beautiful cherry blossom tree in full bloom, perfect timing for our reservation!
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Zehua
Apr 2025
I recently had the pleasure of exploring Kyoto's Gion district with Mr. Oda Masaya, a highly knowledgeable and fluent English-speaking guide. Our private walking tour was an unforgettable experience, offering a unique glimpse into the world of geishas and traditional Japanese culture. With his extensive knowledge, Mr. Oda took us to hidden gems and popular spots, providing a well-rounded understanding of Gion's history and significance. If you're looking for a memorable and enriching experience in Kyoto's Gion district, I highly recommend the Kyoto Gion Memoirs of a Geisha Private Walking Tour with Mr. Oda Masaya. His expertise and passion for the subject make him an exceptional guide, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.
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Rebecca
Apr 2025
One of our favorite activities! Oulan was extremely knowledgeable, and we enjoyed exploring the Gion district with him. He was eager to answer all of our questions, and is an excellent photographer to boot. Highly recommend spending your time with Oulan!
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Bob
Apr 2025
From the moment our tour started, we knew we were in for a very special day today. Alex 's knowledge of local customs and history made the tour very enjoyable. Seeing the city and hearing directly from a local made us all feel like we were learning so much more about the City and helped us better understand the culture.
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