Things to do in Pontocho

Meet your guide in a central location and set out on your nighttime tour of Gion and Pontocho, the city's famous geisha entertainment districts. Step back in time as you stroll through narrow alleyways and along streets lined with old wooden teahouses built in the classic Japanese style. Wander down Pontocho Alley, a popular street lined with traditional Japanese eateries and elite clubs before crossing the river and stopping at the statue of Izumo-no-Okuni to learn about the woman who invented the art of kabuki. Then, continue your tour as you explore Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district. Discover the famous Yasaka Shrine and take a walk along Hanamikoji, keeping an eye out for geishas as they make their way to their appointments. Feel free to ask your guide any questions you may have as you walk and leave your tour with a deeper appreciation for the art of geisha as you discover more about their history and training.

Discover the magic of Kyoto’s nightlife on this small-group tour through Gion and Pontocho, guided by a local expert. Gain unique insights into Kyoto’s rich geisha culture while exploring hidden gems and savoring traditional dishes. Start at Yasaka Shrine, beautifully illuminated at night, as your guide shares fascinating stories about its history and cultural significance. Next, enjoy a cozy izakaya experience in Gion with delicious dishes like karaage, tempura, and sashimi, perfectly paired with Kyoto’s famous sake. Stroll through the scenic Gion Shirakawa area and visit a shrine frequented by geishas, immersing yourself in the traditions of Kyoto’s iconic district. End the night in Pontocho, where you’ll taste more local flavors at a hidden dining spot, which has a different vibes. With over 10 unique dishes, cultural stories, and a glimpse into local life, this tour offers an unforgettable evening in Kyoto!

Explore Gion by night in a small group, guided by a local expert fluent in your language and Japanese. From the historic Yasaka Shrine to the vibrant streets of Gion, experience Kyoto’s rich culture and authentic flavors at every stop. Discover the traditions of the Geishas, enjoy local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the true spirit of Kyoto. The Gion has secrets and history scattered across its narrow streets, but this is also a modern entertainment district—so it’s time for a deep dive into what goes on here. Your guide will keep it light and fun, and explain some of the more interesting cultural mores of these parts. Step into a restaurant and graze from a multitude of small plates at a sort of Japanese-style tapas experience. Enjoy a drink as well before continuing on.   Between restaurant stops, there will be an exploration of Kiyamachi, Ponto-cho, and some other commercial and nightlife streets. Your guide will show you both modern and historical Kyoto, painting a well-rounded picture that gives you a real sense of the place. This tour keeps the groups small and includes your food and drinks, so that you can have a carefree night like you’re simply hanging out with someone who knows the neighborhood. A delicious Kobe (or nearby sourced) Beef option is available on top of the usual food and drink. This option is for bookings at least 10 hours in advance.

Join a local to embark on a journey through the heart of Kyoto's renowned Gion district, a timeless sanctuary where the echoes of tradition resonate with every step, where ancient tradition meets modern charm. Wander through its alleys adorned with picturesque wooden Machiya houses, their silhouettes standing as guardians of the past. Gion is more than just the world-famous entertainment Geisha district of Kyoto. Located in the heart of downtown Kyoto there are a vast number of historically important locations that are easily overlooked which will be showcased & explained on the tour. Through the explanations, a deeper & more thorough understanding of the city & its rich, long history will be developed. In the 2 hours, 3 of the 5 hanamachi (Geisha district) of Kyoto will be visited ①Pontocho ②Gion-Kobu ③Gion-Higashi Walking through the hanamachi & national historical preserved neighbourhoods (Gion-Kobu [North]) You will learn about the history of the area & the hanamachi, the Maiko & Geiko (Geisha) life style, practices, activities & routines. Japanese history, culture & Kyoto History. Also located in Kyoto's famous Gion district, a visit to the formerly named Gion Shrine (currently Yasaka Shrine) from where the district name originates, if time allows an explanation of the ‘Gion Festival’ (1 of the 3 most famous & important festivals in all Japan). Both which have their origins in the Gion district more than 1100 years ago. Itinerary: PONTOCHO ALLEY PONTOCHO KABURENJO KAMOGAWA YAGI-SAN & KITA-SAN STATUES SANJO OHASHI (BRIDGE) YAMATO DORI GION KOBU (GION-SHINBASHI DORI) GION KOBU (GION SHIRAGAWA) TATSUMI JINJA TATSUMI HASHI (BRIDGE) GION HIGASHI YASAKA JINJA CAUTION!: HANAMIKOJI-DORI is not included in the Itinerary, please be aware A Maiko-San and/or Geiko-San (Geisha) sighting can NOT be guaranteed Walking Distance 3.3 Km route 2 Mile Route 9:45 & 12:30 tour can include a free visit to the 'Gion Gallery' if the clients wish to extend their tour time. During cherry blossoms season (Late March-ish –Early April-ish) the route will be slightly altered to showcase the beautiful cherry blossoms around Gion. Updated: 2025/03/04

Please Note: *This is a photography session, not a full tour guide service. *Kimono rental is not included. *Photography at Kiyomizu-dera is not permitted. There are many great photographers with top-notch gear out there, but if you're looking for something unique, creative, and a relaxed shoot where you can truly be yourself, you've definitely come to the right place. Kyoto photography service combines local expertise, personalized experiences, and high-resolution results to create lasting memories of your visit. With in-depth knowledge of Kyoto's hidden and iconic spots, our photographers ensure stunning backdrops tailored to your style. We deliver high-resolution files, ensuring every memory is captured with exceptional clarity. We specialize in capturing authentic, candid moments—even guiding clients who may not know how to pose. Enjoy a quick turnaround with your high-quality photos delivered within 2-3 days, and retouched images to perfect your favorites. Whether you’re looking for Instagram-ready shots or a heartfelt connection through a photo journey in Kyoto, we’re here to create beautiful, high-resolution memories with you. - 1 Session you get around 300 pics or more (Depen on situation) - Get All Original Picture (jpeg format) (downloadable from an online album) - Edited/Retouch photos on the package Shooting spot follow on the Location : Pontocho Area (Old Kyoto Streets) Is a hanamachi district in Kyoto, known for its geisha and maiko and traditional tea houses - Pontocho Street - Shirakawa Lane - Gion Shinbashi Bridge - Kiritoshi St (hidden street) Nanzen-ji Area Is located in the northern Higashiyama area of Kyoto. - Nanzen-ji Temple - Keage incline Higashiyama Area (Gion) Is a large area that spans a number of UNESCO World Heritage temples and the most pristine of Kyoto's old townscapes - Yasaka-jinja Shrine - Maruyama Park - Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple - Hōkan-ji Temple (Yasaka no tō) Arashiyama Area Is a district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, - Bamboo forest - Nonomiya Shrine - Togetsukyo Bridge - Kimono Forest Solo, Couples, Families All welcome!

Embark on a customizable sightseeing tour of Kyoto/Nara/Osaka where you dictate the itinerary tailored to your interests, accompanied by a private driver. Delve into Kyoto's rich history and culture while being with your private driver and private vehicle. • Avoid busy public transport: Travel around Kyoto in a private vehicle • Great way to tick off multiple highlights in a day • Flexible and personalized tour: Choose from a list of places to visit • Potential stops include Gion, Kyoto Imperial Palace, and Kinkaku-ji Temple The subway system and local bus network can be very confusing for tourists visiting Kyoto, so save yourself the risk of getting lost and opt for this worry-free private tour instead. Door-to-door hotel transfers are included, and a driver takes you to a selection of key sights, such as Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, Bamboo Forest, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Monkey Park or Nishiki Market.

Ever wanted to spontaneously book a tour on the same day you take it? This short guided walking tour will have you experiencing the Gion night scene in just three hours! This is perfect if you only have a couple of hours to spare. Enjoy the enchanting nightlife of Gion, Kyoto's historic geisha district. As the sun sets, the streets come to life with beautifully illuminated lanterns, elegant restaurants, charming bars, and traditional teahouses. Wander around the traditional backstreets, visit offbeat temples and shrines, and may even get to catch a glimpse of a geiko or maiko (apprentice geiko) on their way to entertain guests (not guaranteed). Go on this guided walking tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide who will help you explore Hanamikoji Street (one of the best-preserved historic streets), Yasaka Shrine (also known as Gion Shrine), and more. Learn about the rich history, architecture, and customs of the area, and gain a deeper understanding of Japan's culture and traditions.

Start at the vast 400-year-old Nishiki Market, nicknamed 'Kyoto's Kitchen,' where over 130 food shops and stalls will beckon your taste buds. Stroll through the Market and learn about its history and taste the various dishes unique to Kyoto including: Tofu Skin, traditional local home cooking, Hamo (Japanese Pike Conger Eel) Tempura, WAGYU steak skewers, "Yatsuhashi" (rice crape or rice cracker) and etc. Then, rest your appetite by visiting a nearby shrine dedicated to the God of Education and walking through local shopping streets where various shops from long-established shops to the latest shops line up. Stop by Takoyakushido Eifukuji Temple, a small Buddhist temple located at the corner of the shopping street. This is something Kyoto that you can feel temples close to you in everyday life. Finally, you will arrive at Kyoto-based Takashimaya Department Store offering a wide range of shopping options. You will explore the basement food floor, unique to Japanese department stores, filled with a wide variety including delicious pastries, gourmet snacks, ready-to-eat meals, and traditional Japanese delicacies. Your guide will also tell you hidden photo spots for Nintendo fans. After your Nishiki Market Food Tour, you have the option to join a traditional Japanese tea ceremony experience. This 90-minute session begins with professional kimono dressing, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Japanese culture. Once dressed, you’ll take part in an authentic tea ceremony guided by a seasoned tea master, where you'll learn the meaning behind each movement and gesture. To complete the experience, you’ll have time to take commemorative photos in a beautifully traditional setting. If you would like to have this experience, please select the option with the tea ceremony.

Start out the tour by enjoying the fresh, morning air while walking through Gion. A local tour guide will show you around the calm and quaint morning of Kyoto.  Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere which is a big contrast to the vibrant energy at night. After a healthy little walk, you will visit a shrine that is loved by locals. Once arrived at the market savor a one of a kind Japanese breakfast along with tasting 4 to 5 exquisite dishes selected by your local guide. Nishiki Market has over 400 years of history and has been loved by locals as the "Kitchen of Kyoto" for a long time. The name implies that Nishiki Market is rich with the famous gourmet cuisine of Kyoto. Your local and knowledgeable guide will provide you with valuable information that you cannot get from an ordinary sightseeing tour. During the tour, you are welcome to ask any questions about the history and culture of Kyoto. Your local guide is happy to answer all of them.

A one-day tour of Kyoto offers a perfect glimpse into the city’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s a suggested itinerary that combines some of Kyoto’s most iconic sites: Morning: 1. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) Start your day early with a visit to Kinkaku-ji, Kyoto's iconic Golden Pavilion. This Zen Buddhist temple is famous for its stunning golden exterior and beautiful surrounding gardens, reflecting in the pond. 2. Ryoan-ji Temple The Ryoan-ji Temple, famous for its Zen rock garden. The simplicity and serene atmosphere here make it one of Kyoto’s most revered places for meditation and contemplation. Midday: 3. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Head to the Arashiyama district to experience the magical Bamboo Grove. Walking through towering bamboo stalks offers an otherworldly experience, with sunlight filtering through the leaves. Nearby, you can also visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens. Afternoon: 5. Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine This shrine, famous for its thousands of red tori gates, offers a unique and mesmerizing walk up the mountain. 6. Gion District and Yasaka Shrine End your afternoon with a visit to the historic Gion District, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and geisha culture. Take a leisurely stroll through the atmospheric streets and visit Yasaka Shrine, a prominent Shinto shrine located in the heart of Gion. Evening: 7. Kiyomizu-dera Temple Kiyomizu-dera, a famous Buddhist temple offering stunning views of Kyoto. The temple’s balcony overlooks the city, and you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding trees.