Geisha Streets & "Real Kyoto" Magical Night (w/Kyoto Snack)
Overview
Available languages
3 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Two Times Available: 12:00noon DAY or 5:20pm NIGHT Tour
Let's explore the Gion District geisha streets and take a deep dive into the "real Kyoto" in this magical, night walking tour. The expert guide will share with you all the hidden details of the closed world of geishas and mysterious Shinto shrines.
This is a walking tour going through several geisha districts, shrines, and beautifully preserved historic districts of Kyoto's Higashiyama area. The tour is about 3hr 30m.
The guide is an expert, speaking very clear & easy to understand, native English. The guide is extremely knowledgeable and will be able to answer all your questions in detail.
The guide will select a refreshing Kyoto snack during the break. (a small snack, not a full meal...will make every effort to cater to dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan as well)
You will get deep insight into the Japanese way-of thinking, culture, and traditions that can't be experienced on other tours.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For strollers, there are some steps and unpaved rocky paths which have to be manoeuvred during the tour
The 3.5 hour walking tour is not suitable for anyone having walking issues
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Expert guide speaking clear, native English
Walking tour
a refreshing Kyoto snack during our short break
Personal Expenses
Gratuities/Tips: never an obligation, but always appreciated (if you had a good time))
What To Expect
Minamiza Theater
We will make a stop by the Kabuki theater while guide will explain interesting details of this traditional Japanese entertainment.
Hanamikoji Street
We will explore the Gion District geisha streets (Hanamikoji) and alleys while the expert guide will explain the geisha arts & traditions in detail. We will pass by geisha living quarters and working geisha houses where the wealthy are entertained.
Options
Geisha Streets & "Real Kyoto" Magical Night (w/Kyoto Snack)
Reviews
107 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great experience
Cynthia T,
Jun 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00Richard was great! He knew an abundance of geisha history and fashion and we saw multiple geishas during the tour. We also saw many streets we never would have found otherwise. He also knew a great deal about shrines and gave us a lot of context not covered on our previous tours. Would recommend!
Excellent time in Kyoto Gion
John D,
Jun 18, 2025
- Viator
5.00My guide was Richard. He did an absolutely fantastic job. He’s extremely knowledgeable about the entirety of the Kyoto area and was able to supply interesting details on the current state of geisha and the history and origins of geisha. We also had several very interesting conversations about the Shinto shrines and practices. I was the only person on the tour, so there was a significant opportunity for a lot of questions which Richard answered in good detail. The conversation never lagged and he showed me all the interesting sites that I could ask for. When I return to Kyoto in 2026 I will reach out again to Richard for another tour with my family.
Fantastic Walking Tour of the Gion District!
Annette P,
Jun 17, 2025
- Viator
5.00Richard went above and beyond to make this a truly magical and insightful night. His thorough explanations, engaging storytelling, and genuine enthusiasm made this tour a highlight of our Japan trip and instilled a need to return to Kyoto! Richard's insights into geisha and Kyoto history were incredibly thorough and respectful, providing a nuanced understanding far beyond what we could have gleaned on our own. My teenage son especially appreciated conversing with Richard about the Japanese language. He navigated us expertly through the enchanting streets and sites; so we were actually able to "dodge crowds" at several special spots as he knows the crowdflow, routes, and timings. My personal favorite was our stop at the Yasui Konpira-gu Shrine. If you're looking for an authentic, enlightening, and deeply engaging exploration of the Gion district, we wholeheartedly recommend booking this tour, especially if you have the good fortune to have Richard as your guide! Thank you for an unforgettable evening!
Great tour
Shane W,
Jun 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00Wonderful tour with our guide, Richard! He was super knowledgeable, very personable, and provided an overall excellent experience. Highly recommended!
Fascinating tour
JP D,
Jun 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Incredible experience with a great tour guide. Must do for anyone visiting Kyoto. We discussed everything from Geishas to religion to Japanese history. The entire family learned so much.
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