Traditions & Heritage • 4 hours 5.0 (6)

Traditional Kyoto: Kimono Experience in Gion

Experience Japanese culture and food while exploring the Geisha district Gion in a traditional kimono.

Visit on the 15th, 21st and 25th of the month to catch one of the flea markets and grab amazing bargain kimono, ceramics, handicrafts etc.

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Pick from many different colors and designs at Hairmake & Kimono Rental First Kiyomizu Shop.
  • Take pictures in front of Hokan-ji, one of Kyoto's oldest and most famous places.
  • Relax and enjoy the peaceful feeling at an ancient temple called Kōdai-ji Temple.
  • Try the special Hoku-Hoku Dango Combo at eX cafe Gion Yasaka. It comes with matcha!

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

4 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Per person
Hosted experience lasting up to 4 hours.
Private and tailored to your group only
Immersive walking experience between stops
Entry to the attractions (Kōdai-ji & Hokan-ji Temples)
1 food tasting & 1 drink
Kimono rental & Hairstyling
Hotel meet-up (available on request for central locations)

What’s not included

Additional food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions other than what has been listed
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

Hairmake & Kimono Rental First Kiyomizu Shop, 100 Tatsumichō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0855, Japan

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What 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 most

What you’ll do

Are you in the mood for a fun journey through Kyoto dressed to impress in a magical kimono? Then, this is the place to be. I love spending time in Kyoto—the city is absolutely magnificent, and there's so much to do. And what's better than doing it while making a fashion statement? So choose a color, get a local host to show you the ropes, and prepare for a fantastic adventure.

Picture this: you're in Kyoto, and your day kicks off at Hairmake & Kimono Rental First Kiyomizu Shop – where the magic of Japan's traditional fashion begins. I'm telling you, you'll feel like a kid in a candy store surrounded by racks of stunning kimonos. Choosing one feels like picking out a superhero costume – except your superpower is looking fabulous! The kimono is quite important to Japan's culture (I'll let your host tell you why), so remember to behave respectfully while dressed up in one.

Dressed to the nines, strut your stuff to Hokan-ji, also known as Yasaka Pagoda, an iconic landmark in Kyoto's historic Higashiyama district. It's like stepping into a time capsule, with the pagoda towering above you like a silent guardian of ancient secrets. Fun fact, it was initially built by Prince Shotoku and has been rebuilt multiple times due to fires (I won't spoil all its secrets - that's for your host to do). Legend also has it; its unique shape wards off evil spirits. Talk about stylish AND protective!

*Please note that if this experience is booked during the week you will rather go to Kiyo-mizu Dera Temple as Hokan-ji is closed from Monday to Friday.

From there, meander over to Kōdai-ji Temple, where tranquility wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Kōdai-ji is a serene and enchanting temple known for its stunning Zen gardens and fascinating history. Founded in 1606 by Nene, the widow of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, this temple is a tribute to her late husband. The gardens are straight out of a zen master's dreams – every stone placed just so, every leaf whispering centuries-old stories. One of the best things about Kōdai-ji is its mesmerizing bamboo grove, which provides a tranquil escape and a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts (have your Instagram and camera ready). Try your hand at finding inner peace amidst the meticulously groomed gravel paths – spoiler alert: it's harder than it looks!

But wait, the day's not over yet. Make a beeline for eX cafe Gion Yasaka, a hipster haven nestled in the heart of the historic Gion district. It's the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern flair. This stylish café is famous for its zen-like ambiance and beautifully presented sweets. Settle in with a matcha latte and one of their Zen Garden Sweets, soaking up the vibe as geishas glide by outside. Or, if you want a more interactive experience, try their Rolling Kyo-Temari experience, where you can create your own sweet treats inspired by Kyo-Temari balls. It's both fun and delicious!

So, whether you're into fashion escapades, spiritual journeys, or just chilling with a good cup of tea, this Kyoto adventure has it all. So dive in and create your own story amidst the cherry blossoms and ancient temples – because in Kyoto, the past and present dance together like nowhere else. I can't wait to hear more about your adventure!

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
Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1203482663

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1203482663

Eiko_Yamauchi_Kyoto_BR-1149801357

Eiko_Yamauchi_Kyoto_BR-1149801357

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_CU-105912

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_CU-105912

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_BR-1212135599

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_BR-1212135599

Hanako_Kitajima_Kyoto_BR-1212474221

Hanako_Kitajima_Kyoto_BR-1212474221

Hanako_Kitajima_Kyoto_BR-1219979769

Hanako_Kitajima_Kyoto_BR-1219979769

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_CU-106477

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_CU-106477

Kenya_Iwane_Kyoto_EVP647394

Kenya_Iwane_Kyoto_EVP647394

Kenya_Iwane_Kyoto_BR-1222047437

Kenya_Iwane_Kyoto_BR-1222047437

Ryokui_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1204814673

Ryokui_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1204814673

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_BR-1199392341

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_BR-1199392341

Hanako_Kitajima_Kyoto_CNZ573505

Hanako_Kitajima_Kyoto_CNZ573505

Emi_Horita_Kyoto_GYG48ZK2BVM5

Emi_Horita_Kyoto_GYG48ZK2BVM5

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1220490899

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1220490899

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1215785079

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1215785079

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_BR-1169344217

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_BR-1169344217

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1203482663

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1203482663

Kiyoto_Noda_Kyoto_BR-1218458695

Kiyoto_Noda_Kyoto_BR-1218458695

Alexis_Sandes_Kyoto_BR-1217401377

Alexis_Sandes_Kyoto_BR-1217401377

Jose_David_Vargas_Kyoto_CU-102290

Jose_David_Vargas_Kyoto_CU-102290

Jose_David_Vargas_Kyoto_BR-1208869677

Jose_David_Vargas_Kyoto_BR-1208869677

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_YAP237444

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_YAP237444

Jose_David_Kyoto_BR-1214451623

Jose_David_Kyoto_BR-1214451623

Toshio_Uenishi_Kyoto_RFP833558

Toshio_Uenishi_Kyoto_RFP833558

Jose_David_Kyoto_BR-1214108785

Jose_David_Kyoto_BR-1214108785

Alvin_Noviansyah_Kyoto_KNY389579

Alvin_Noviansyah_Kyoto_KNY389579

Michael_Chodrow_Kyoto_BR-1215027007

Michael_Chodrow_Kyoto_BR-1215027007

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1215657985

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1215657985

Rhea_Sarah_Kyoto_BR-1202882661

Rhea_Sarah_Kyoto_BR-1202882661

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1213533187

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1213533187

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1214150401

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1214150401

Tess_Liu_Kyoto_BR-1226201893

Tess_Liu_Kyoto_BR-1226201893

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_BR-1207290083

Tom_Vo_Kyoto_BR-1207290083

Kokoro_Ogasawa_Kyoto_BR-1234498219

Kokoro_Ogasawa_Kyoto_BR-1234498219

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1219619623

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1219619623

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_CU-108407

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_CU-108407

Hanako_Kitajama_Kyoto_BR-1228661413

Hanako_Kitajama_Kyoto_BR-1228661413

Cecilia_Elias_Kyoto_BR-1233364693

Cecilia_Elias_Kyoto_BR-1233364693

Cecilia_Elias_Kyoto_QTH123190

Cecilia_Elias_Kyoto_QTH123190

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1223077989

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1223077989

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_CU-107840

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_CU-107840

Kyoto_Noda_Kyoto_BR-1231082227

Kyoto_Noda_Kyoto_BR-1231082227

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1228451089

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1228451089

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_GYGLMVQZ7V7R

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_GYGLMVQZ7V7R

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1230176743

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1230176743

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1231013077

Annisa_Arsyad_Kyoto_BR-1231013077

Eiko_Yamauchi_Kyoto_BR-1196118487

Eiko_Yamauchi_Kyoto_BR-1196118487

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1218947573

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1218947573

Jose_David_Vargas_Kyoto_BR-1228671511

Jose_David_Vargas_Kyoto_BR-1228671511

Taiga_Utsumi_Kyoto_BR-1192254231

Taiga_Utsumi_Kyoto_BR-1192254231

Alvin_Noviansyah_Kyoto_BR-1227976247

Alvin_Noviansyah_Kyoto_BR-1227976247

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1214179807

Ryuki_Inoue_Kyoto_BR-1214179807

Kokoro_Ogasawara_Kyoto_YTW134751

Kokoro_Ogasawara_Kyoto_YTW134751

Alexis_Sandes_Kyoto_BR-1226624629

Alexis_Sandes_Kyoto_BR-1226624629

Hanako_Kitajima_Kyoto_BR-1204603517

Hanako_Kitajima_Kyoto_BR-1204603517

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

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
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

What travelers think of this experience

Ali Apr 2025

Very informative and ready to be flexible and meet expectations. Wonderful person with passion to serve and deliver a good service.

Show more
Jozie Apr 2025

Mia was amazing! She was very easy to talk to and easily personalized our tour. She was very knowledgeable on the history of Kyoto. We did not have to ask for pictures because she offered multiple times to take some of us and recommended multiple places for us to go to after the tour. Thank you Mia!

Show more
Tom Apr 2025

Very polite and considerate as we toured Gion sighted the life of the Geisha.

Show more
Robin Apr 2025

We loved where she took us and the information she shared with us. She not only guided us to all of the places on our wishlist, she also gave us pertinent information on each location, answered all of our questions (even looking up the answers she didn’t know off hand). Most importantly she added a personal touch, making it seem as if a close friend was guiding us through an experience of a lifetime. A must recommended 20/10 for sure!

Show more
Ann-Kathrin Apr 2025

Ada is so knowledgeable and Showed us all the Hidden gems of Kyoto. Can definitely recommend her as a guide! Thank You so much!

Show more
Leah Apr 2025

Our tour was on a beautiful sunny day, and Milo helped us see parts of the city we would not have found on our own. He was very knowledgeable and passionate about Kyoto history and culture.

Show more
SEE ALL REVIEWS