Kyoto: Meet the Geisha Maiko with Gion Walking Tour

Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
311 reviews
Activity provider:
Japan Wonder Travel
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Kyoto: Meet the Geisha Maiko with Gion Walking Tour
Top rated
4.8 out of 5 stars
4.8
311 reviews

Meet a Maiko, a geisha in Kyoto, and enjoy a walking tour in Gion, the geisha district. See an authentic Japanese tradition unfold before your eyes that has existed for hundreds of years.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 3 - 5 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English
Small group available

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

5
5 out of 5 stars
A
Acacia Ridge – Australia

Youn, our guide was very pleasant and helpful and shared his knowledge with us. The Geisha and Maiko did a lovely performance and answered all our questions with a lovely young man translating. We both enjoyed the tour and the tea house

5
5 out of 5 stars
S
Shannon – United States

Mika was very sweet. Enjoyed the ceremony and after ceremony questions the most.

Select participants and date

Itinerary

  • 2 starting location options:

    出雲阿国像, wargo Kyoto Kimno Rental-Gionshijo Store

  • Gion-Shirakawa spotlight

    Guided tour (30 minutes)

  • Tatsumi-jinja Shrine

    Guided tour (5 minutes)

  • Hanamikoji Street

    Guided tour (10 minutes)

  • Gion Corner

    Guided tour

  • Kenninji Temple

    Photo stop, Guided tour, Sightseeing (15 minutes)

  • Miyagawasuji

    Photo stop, Visit (1.5 hours)

  • Finish at:

    Miyagawasuji

Main stop
Other stop

For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.

Highlights

  • Enjoy an authentic live performance by a Maiko and a former Geiko
  • Conversation with a maiko and a teahouse owner for firsthand insights
  • Capture memorable photos with with Maiko
  • Explore the charming streets of Gion
  • Discover the real world of geisha with fascinating stories from a local guide

Full description

Discover an exclusive side of Kyoto that few—even locals—ever experience.

This tour offers rare access to a private Ochaya (tea house) or residence, where you'll meet a maiko (apprentice geisha) and a former Geiko. In this intimate setting, enjoy a graceful live performance followed by something even more special: a personal conversation.

They will share candid stories about their lives, training, and the traditions of Kyoto’s hidden geisha world—an experience far beyond what most visitors ever see.

Before the encounter, take a guided walk through Gion to explore the very streets where maiko and Geiko live and practice. This short stroll provides rich context to enhance your appreciation of the culture you’re about to step into.

Not just a performance—this is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural exchange with living tradition.

Includes

  • Local guide
  • Gion walking tour
  • Live performance by a maiko and a former geiko
  • Photo session with a maiko

Not suitable for

  • Children under 10 years
  • People with mobility impairments
  • Wheelchair users

Meeting point

Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Important information

What to bring

  • Socks

Know before you go

  • *For the Kimono Rental Option, After Changing into Kimono, please go to the Izumo-no-Okuni statue by yourself. It's about 3min walk from the kimono rental store.
  • You MUST wear socks at the performance venue
  • Photography & video recording are allowed only during the performance and the photo session. If you wish to upload any photos of Maiko on the internet, please obtain direct permission from the Maiko beforehand.
  • You cannot upload any video on the internet.
  • The tour will take place rain or shine.
  • No wet clothes & socks are allowed at the venue on rainy days (Please use an umbrella during the walk).
  • Refundable for cancellations due to organizers' reasons; no refunds for incidental hotel or bullet train costs.
  • The tour may be a bit longer than expected depending on the day.
  • The Maiko performance will held on at exclusive private house's 2nd floor, we can only access there with stairs.
Save up to 40%

From $118 $71 per person

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5
4.8 out of 5 stars

based on 311 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.7/5
  • Value for money
    4.6/5

Customer photos

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5
5 out of 5 stars
A
Acacia Ridge – AustraliaMay 17, 2025 – Verified booking
Youn, our guide was very pleasant and helpful and shared his knowledge with us. The Geisha and Maiko did a lovely performance and answered all our questions with a lovely young man translating. We both enjoyed the tour and the tea house
5
5 out of 5 stars
S
Shannon – United StatesMay 12, 2025 – Verified booking
Mika was very sweet. Enjoyed the ceremony and after ceremony questions the most.
5
5 out of 5 stars
A
Anna – PolandMay 3, 2025 – Verified booking
Tour was excellent! Tom was a great guide with great english skills and knowledge. Q&A with Maiko and Geiko was very interesting!

Product ID: 529454

Activity provider:
Japan Wonder Travel

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