Experience Authentic Kyoto Gion Geisha/Maiko Cultural Tour
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Enjoy a live performance of a traditional dance accompanied by authentic shamisen and singing by maiko or geiko and a former geiko who is also a teahouse owner, and a matcha green tea experience while learning the proper etiquette. As the tour is limited to 10 people, you can enjoy a leisurely conversation with the maiko or geiko and the owner of the teahouse. Feel free to take a commemorative photo with the maiko or geiko. This walking tour is accompanied by a English speaking guide. [Update as of March 2025] The Gion Kagai Art Museum is no longer part of the tour itinerary.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The Gion Kagai Art Museum is NOT included in the tours from March 2025.
During the teahouse experience, customers will be accompanied by either a maiko or geiko along with a tea master depending on the day. Maiko and geiko cannot be selected.
Children 0-5 years old cannot join the tour.
Please be sure to wear socks. If your feet, clothes, or bag are wet such as on rainy days, please wipe the water off with a towel, etc. before entering the teahouse. Please kindly cooperate in keeping tatami spaces clean.
Parental permission in writing is necessary for all tour participants under the age of eighteen. Any participant under the age of fifteen or not yet enrolled in middle school must be joined by a parent or guardian on the tour.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
English Speaking Guide
Teahouse experience fee (maiko or geiko traditional dance viewing, tea ceremony, picture taking)
Fees other than those listed in Includes
[From March 2025] Entry to the Gion Kagai Art Museum
What To Expect
Hanamikoji Street
From the Gion Kagai Art Museum to Teahouse, your English-speaking guide will lead you through the charming streets of Gion, including the iconic Hanamikoji Street, offering fascinating insights into Gion's history and culture.
Gion
At Teahouse, watch a traditional dance performance by maiko or geiko, enjoy a matcha green tea experience, and take a commemorative photo with the maiko or geiko amidst the atmosphere of a tatami room meticulously designed with the architect's attention to detail.
Options
3:15 PM Departure
Itinerary: Stroll Gion Streets → Teahouse Experience
Please note: No entry to Gion Kagai Art Museum
11:50AM Departure
11:50AM Meet-up: Gion Kagai Art Museum → Stroll → Teahouse Experience
2:45PM Departure
2:45PM Meet-up: Meet at Gion Kagai Art Museum → Teahouse Experience → Stroll → Gion Kagai Art Museum
September 5:15 PM Departure
Itinerary: Stroll Gion Streets → Teahouse Experience
Please note: No entry to Gion Kagai Art Museum
2:30 PM Departure
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Itinerary: Gion Kagai Art Museum → Stroll Gion Streets → Teahouse Experience
1:15 PM Departure
Itinerary: Stroll Gion Streets → Teahouse Experience
Please note: No entry to Gion Kagai Art Museum
September 7:15 PM Departure
Itinerary: Stroll Gion Streets → Teahouse Experience
Please note: No entry to Gion Kagai Art Museum
Reviews
44 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Ancient tradition meets modern tourist
Shannon B,
Sep 26, 2025
- Viator
5.00We learned so much about the modern geisha. Tomonika (hope I spelled that right) was an excellent tour guide and a good interpreter. The tea ceremony and dances were on my bucket list and never dreamed that I would be able to do it in such a small private party. Thank you for the opportunity!
Authentic
Edward D,
Sep 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00The tour was top notch. We went to a Tea house. We were given all the does and don’ts of proper behavior. We experienced a tea ceremony, enjoyed dancing from a Maiko, and instrument playing by the owner, a former Geiko. Our tour guide was the perfect Japanese local guide. This is the tour to do if you want something that is authentic.
Our guide Tokodo? was...
Julie C,
Sep 3, 2025
- Viator
5.00Our guide Tokodo? was very friendly and informative. The Maiko tea ceremony and dancing was fabulous. Fantastic experience!!
The Guide makes all the difference
Michael B,
Aug 27, 2025
- Viator
5.00The guide (Yoshi) was fantastic! We met on time and she shared so much about growing up in Kyoto and the experience she had with the tradition of the Geisha. Her personal experiences made this extra special. The Maiko who served our tea and danced for us was so kind and we were lucky as she was one of the few who was fluent in English. She was also the same one that was on the posters in the area. Just an amazing and educational experience, I would highly recommend it.
Recommended…I loved it!
Carlos P,
Aug 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00My experience with the geisha was truly unforgettable - a memory for life! The elegance, poise, and charm of these skilled performers left me in awe. From the intricate traditional dances to the engaging conversation and warm hospitality, every moment was a delight. If you're looking for a unique and enchanting experience, I highly recommend it. It was a glimpse into a world of beauty and refinement that I will always treasure.
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