Kyoto Gion: 2-Hour Geisha Culture & History Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
[Highlights]
・Chance to Spot a Geisha
・Visit a 1,000-Year-Old Shrine
・See Edo-Period Townhouses
・Get Local Tips & Recommendations
If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a real geisha.Gion is a district where Japan's traditional culture is still deeply preserved. With a local expert guide, you won’t just visit famous tourist spots but also explore hidden alleys.
First, we will visit Hanamikoji Street, known as the heart of the geisha district. Here, you will learn about the strict training of geisha, their graceful dances, and the craftsmanship behind their beautiful kimonos and hairstyles, giving you a glimpse into Gion’s traditional culture.
Next, we will walk through quiet backstreets with fewer tourists. These hidden paths lead to small shrines and historical spots.
You will also see wooden townhouses from the Edo period. Your guide will share the stories behind these buildings, allowing you to appreciate Kyoto’s old-town charm and rich history.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Local Guide
What To Expect
Hanamikoji Street
A street where you might have a chance to see a geisha. Your guide will share the history and hidden stories behind the world of geisha.
Sannenzaka Ninenzaka
If you don’t take a photo on this street, it might feel like you haven’t really been to Kyoto. They say if you fall here, you’ll die in two years — but your guide will explain the truth behind this eerie rumor. Plus, there are plenty of great shops along the way!
Options
Kyoto Gion: 2-Hour Geisha Culture & History Walking Tour
Reviews
195 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Good tour
Pam G,
Oct 5, 2025
- Viator
5.00Very good tour and lovely guide who was very friendly and knowledgeable of the area. Topped off by actually seeing a Geisha!
Great tour, so informative.
Laura H,
Oct 4, 2025
- Viator
5.00So informative and especially beautiful at sunset. Our guide gave us great insight into the gion neighbourhood and geisha culture. Also pointed our good restaurants and rooftop bars. Truly time well spent.
Excellent tour!!!!! Would...
James Y,
Sep 19, 2025
- Viator
5.00Excellent tour!!!!! Would absolutely do it again. Very knowledgeable guide, friendly, and fun to be around.
Walking History Tour
Hipolito P,
Sep 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00Amazing walking tour through the streets of Kyoto. As you are walking through the streets of Kyoto, our guide Naoya is giving the history and discussing the traditions and all the work that goes into being a Geisha . The history comes alive. The walking tour also takes you through various streets, shrine, temples and allows for some nice pictures. Great experience getting to see Kyoto from a different point of view.
This is a really fun,...
Josh B,
Aug 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00This is a really fun, casual walking tour for about 2 hours. You’ll learn a lot about geisha history and culture, plus see a couple temples and shrines along the way. Our guide Uta was wonderful, excellent English with a hint of a proper British accent. She was extremely engaging and made it a lot of fun. A small tip for those hoping to see a geisha on the tour…try to do the tour around 5-6p, you will have a better chance of seeing one on the street.
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Operated by Local Guide Stars