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.

Where you'll go

In the heart of Kyoto, you’ll find Japan’s most famous geisha district, Gion. Located between 1300-year-old Yasaka Shrine on the east, and local hotspot Kamo River on the west, Gion is a snapshot of modern and ancient Japan, harmoniously intertwined. At dusk, paper lanterns illuminate cobbled streets, and quiet areas become crowded. Your host will lead you down Hanamikoji-dori, the bustling main street passing through the center of Gion, lined with bars, izakaya, temples, and shrines. Try to snatch a glimpse of a mesmerizing geisha at Gion Corner, a traditional Japenese theater, then walk 10 minutes across the river to atmospheric Ponto-chō, home to tranquil teahouses, upmarket restaurants and where you could spot more geisha floating by.

- 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
- You could see seven of Japan’s most famous traditional arts at Gion Corner, from comedy to dance to flower arranging
- Let your local host answer any questions you have about the elusive lives of geishas
- This experience will be personalized to you!
- 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)
- Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)
- What’s not included
- Food and drinks
- Tickets to any attractions
- Transportation costs
- Gratuities (optional)
Your hotel/apartment or any other central location
Cancel 7 days before the experience for a full refund

COVID-19 Flexible Policy: you can cancel for free up to a day before the experience and receive a full refund.

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