Kyoto
Mystical Gion: explore the iconic geisha district
Traditions & Heritage • 3 hours
5.0
(180)
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
Hosted in Arabic, Cantonese, Catalan, French, German, Greek, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Portuguese, Spanish 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
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
Hong KEE,
Feb 2025
The guide being us to setsubun festival which is quite specially and understand tonight is the last day of winter and spring coming tmr!! And understand more about Japanese traditional religious and story
Show more
Bradley,
Jan 2025
Jose gave us a great tour of Kyoto. Thank you again
Show more
Kate,
Jan 2025
Nisa was a amazing guide, this tour was amazing and she had so much knowledge and information and the whole family enjoyed.
Show more
Low,
Dec 2024
It was well-paced, and she was very flexible with taking little breaks while bringing us around the area. Most importantly, she's very knowledgeable and was happy to educate us on other parts of Japanese culture, especially when we noticed things during the walk and asked her about them. Extremely friendly and would totally recommend her to anyone visiting Kyoto!
Show more
Linda,
Nov 2024
Vanessa provided us with an outstanding tour which gave us a great insight into the geisha district, its history and the culture. She pointed out so many details we would otherwise have missed and was super helpful in answering our questions. She also took us past some of the shrines and conveyed their significance. Very knowledgeable about the spiritual and cultural aspects of Kyoto. Couldn’t have wished for a better tour.
Show more
Linda,
Nov 2024
Vanessa provided us with an outstanding tour which gave us a great insight into the geisha district, its history and the culture. She pointed out so many details we would otherwise have missed and was super helpful in answering our questions. She also took us past some of the shrines and conveyed their significance. Very knowledgeable about the spiritual and cultural aspects of Kyoto. Couldn’t have wished for a better tour.
Show more