Kyoto

Mystical Gion: explore the iconic geisha district

Traditions & Heritage • 3 hours 5.0 (181)

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

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

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.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

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 Bridge

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

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.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

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What travelers think of this experience

Tom Apr 2025

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

Jianle Mar 2025

I took this tour with Cici who is the loveliest and friendliest guide. The itinerary is well paced. you get to see lots yet doesn’t feel rushed. what I enjoyed most were the stories shared, not just about history and origin of geisha, but Kyoto and Japan in general as Cici is very knowledgeable in Japanese culture and history. before we ended the tour, we were lucky to caught a glimpse of maiko and geisha heading to work! I cannot recommend this tour enough. Cici, if you’re reading this, thank you so much for your hospitality!

Aditya Arvindbhai Mar 2025

Had a great time with Michael. He knows so much about Kyoto, its history and the best places to be.

Theotime Mar 2025

Had a great time exploring Kyoto with Milo! He knows the city inside out and made the tour super fun and easygoing. The route was well-planned, with a perfect mix of history, culture, and hidden gems. Definitely recommend if you want a local’s insight into Kyoto!

Jun Mar 2025

Michael reached out ahead of time to introduce himself, exchanging his background. We got to know him beforehand. I was looking forward to meeting him. He did not disappoint us at all.

Charlie Mar 2025

This was an amazing experience. It is definitely a must if time and money permits. Milo was superb and very knowledgeable. The route he takes you on is very interesting and beautiful.

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