Kyoto: Gion and Geisha District Walking Tour

Overview

Available languages

English

2 hours

Mobile ticket

Step back in time on our Gion Walking Tour, where Kyoto’s rich traditions come to life. Wander through stone-paved alleys and charming streets lined with preserved wooden teahouses. Learn about the world of geisha (called geiko in Kyoto) and maiko as we explore hidden corners and historical landmarks. With stories of samurai, tea culture, and centuries-old rituals, this tour offers an unforgettable journey into Kyoto’s most elegant district.

1. Calm and easy-paced walking.

2. Stroll through narrow alleys lined with old wooden townhouses and hidden tea shops.

3. Chance to see geiko and maiko.

4. Learn about Kyoto's rich history and culture.

Additional Info

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

English Speaking Guide

Entry/Admission to Gion and Hanamikoji Street

Tips (optional)

What To Expect

Yasaka Shrine

Discover the vibrant heart of Kyoto at Yasaka Shrine, a centuries-old Shinto sanctuary nestled between Gion and Higashiyama. Famous for its striking vermilion gate and lantern-lit paths, this spiritual site blends tradition, beauty, and local life. It’s also the birthplace of the legendary Gion Matsuri festival. A must-see spot to soak in Kyoto’s cultural and spiritual charm.

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Maruyama Park

Step into serenity at Maruyama Park, Kyoto’s oldest public park, known for its seasonal beauty and iconic weeping cherry trees. A tranquil oasis nestled near Yasaka Shrine, it’s the perfect spot to soak in Kyoto’s natural charm, whether during cherry blossom season or while strolling under the shade of centuries-old trees.

10 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

Kyoto: Gion and Geisha District Walking Tour

Reviews

4.96

131 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

126

Lovely Tour In Gion
Coastal15869590632,
Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Tim was a fantastic tour guide! Great at giving knowledge and history, along with being very friendly and easy to talk with/ask questions!
Amazing tour of Gion
marckA5335WV,
Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Tim was awesome very good tour! He was very attentive and answered all of my questions I learned a lot that I would not have otherwise!
Thanks Amy!
apollinebaudoux,
Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Surprisingly, it was just the 2 of us with Amy for the tour this afternoon. This made the experience such a privilege tour. We were able to ask plenty of questions and receive a lot of information. Amy made sure that we learned the essence of the different shrines and temples that we visited. She went above and beyond to explain to us the symbols, the history and the anecdotes. Our lucky couple also had the opportunity to get some pictures taken by our guide. Thanks to her enthusiasm, we were able to visit a lot of different places in 2 hours.
Great walking tour
Judith E,
Nov 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Great tour and great guide. Shin was very knowledgeable. Good introduction to Gion and all there is to see there
Best way to see historical Kyoto!
sylviab865,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Lovely evening tour with Majo and Camilla - we got to experience all the sites - and without the crowds! We toured local shrines and temples, in addition to the geisha district. Both Majo and Camilla were professional and gave good historical and cultural tips throughout. Highly recommend as a way to see tutorial and historical sites in the local area! We got the best photos along the way!
Really warm and friendly tour guide Majo. Thank you for the information and great tour.
Esther L,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Our tour guide Majo was really lovely. She was warm and friendly. Lots of great information about the history of Japan, its relationship to various and Shinto and Buddhist temples. Also I really appreciated her reverence for the Geisha culture and heritage. She was clear that we needed to remain respectful of the Geishas and tea houses
Immersive experience
115asiyan,
Nov 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Majo was an excellent guide, giving us an immersive experience of the places, the history, and culture. The time we went for the tour was great too since it was sunset. Loved it!
Great tour!
Hannah P,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We had a fantastic tour. Amy was a great guide. We learnt and saw so much that we would never have done by ourselves.
You get a great feeling for the city and also have time for photos
kinjuli,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Tim and Hiro were great. We all saw and were able to ask all the questions that have gathered in the meantime. They could answer everything and we had a great time! Gladly again
Gion at Night is Special
Daniel C,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Really nice night walking tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable. Something special to experience this part of Gion at night.