Step into the elegant “floating world” of Kyoto’s geisha, the graceful entertainers that have long enchanted patrons in Gion and other historic districts of the city. With an expert guide along for the walk, guests will learn about one of Japan’s most fascinating traditions. As a bonus, the walking route passes out of Gion and through other charming night time scenery.
Tonight’s tour will begin at 17:30. Meet an expert guide and venture out into the early evening, when lanterns are lit and the streets take on an air of refined elegance.
Tour the narrow lanes of Kyoto’s two largest geisha districts, where the guide will explain what geisha are – and aren’t – as well as the general history of these fascinating female entertainers. See avenues of wooden teahouses where geisha meet their clients, then turn off onto the sidestreets to see the training schools and homes of these elegant ladies. With luck, a few geisha and maiko (the young geisha-in-training) in full dress will pass by on their way to meet clients during tonight’s tour.
Leave the floating world of the geisha to enjoy some night time scenery in the delightfully picturesque Higashiyama area. Make a twilight detour through the external grounds of a large Buddhist temple, encounter a shrine where worshippers perform a strange ritual, and admire the illuminated Yasaka Pagoda, a 15th century architectural masterpiece
Even for visitors who previously explored this area in the daytime, a brief return in the evening offers a new lantern-lit landscape that is sure to enchant.
Finally, make a brief visit to North Gion for one last glimpse of the elegant realm of the geisha. This is where the lovely Tatsumibashi Bridge is located, a must-see spot above the serene Shirakawa River. See the former homes and schools of young geishas-in-training while the guide tells the story of a famous maiko whose true tale was far more intriguing than the fiction of the film Memoirs of a Geisha.
Finish the walk back at Gion-Shijo Station. From here, the guide can point guests to additional sightseeing and offer suggestions for dinner locations.
Notes:
- Tour not available on Sundays, Mondays, Obon Holiday, and New Years.
- Reservations accepted from 2 guests for shared tours. For single travellers, please enquire.
- Sightings of geisha and maiko are not guaranteed.
- This is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are suggested.
- The route may be adapted or shortened for guests with mobility issues.
- Tour may be cancelled in case of extreme weather.
- Please contact your Travel Consultant for availability. Please note that all of the services and tours have yet to be booked and that they are proposed for your reference only. We will start making reservations after we receive your confirmation.
- Please inform your Travel Consultant of any special dietary requirements and physical conditions that you may have. We strongly recommend the purchase of a travel insurance that also covers emergency medical evacuation.
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