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A traditional Japanese street with wooden buildings, a pagoda, and cherry blossoms. 1
A group of women in traditional Japanese kimonos walking down a street. 2
Two individuals in traditional Japanese attire walking on a wet street with wooden buildings. 3
A nighttime coastal walkway with illuminated buildings and people walking. 4
A narrow street at night with illuminated shop signs and traditional wooden buildings. 5
By Japan Guide Star

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
Free cancellation available
Price is AU$27 per adult
See tickets

Features

  • Free cancellation available
  • 2h
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation

Overview

  • [Highlights]
    ・Chance to Spot a Geisha
    ・Visit a 1,000-Year-Old Shrine
    ・See Edo-Period Townhouses
    ・Explore quiet lanes and hidden gems
    ・Get Local Tips & Recommendations

    We begin at Gion Shirakawa, a scenic riverside lined with willow trees, traditional tea houses, and stone-paved paths. After soaking in its beauty, we visit historical shrines and hidden spots, walking through quiet backstreets with few tourists.

    Along the way, Edo-period wooden townhouses reveal the charm of old Kyoto.

    The tour ends on Hanamikoji Street, the heart of the geisha district, where you may catch a glimpse of a geisha on her way to an evening engagement. 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.

Activity location

  • Pontocho
    • Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • McDonald's - Shijo-ohashi Bridge
    • 105-1 Hashimotochō
    • 600-8011, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

Check availability

Kyoto: Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Culture Tour

  • Activity duration is 2 hours2h
    2h
  • English
Language options: English
Price details
AU$27.24 x 1 AdultAU$27.24
Total
Price is AU$27.24

What's included, what's not

  • Inclusions
    Local Guide

Know before you book

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Public transport options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travellers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for travellers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travellers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Activity itinerary

Pontocho

  • 15m
Discover Pontocho, Kyoto’s famous historic alley filled with traditional charm and local atmosphere.

Shijo Bridge (Pass by)

A local chill-out spot by the Kamogawa River

Gion Shirakawa

  • 20m
See beautifully preserved Edo-period townhouses along a picturesque historic street

Yasaka Shrine

  • 20m
Discover Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto’s iconic 1,000-year-old shrine at the heart of the historic Gion district.

Ninenzaka

  • 15m
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 rumour. Plus, there are plenty of great shops along the way!

Hokan-ji Temple

  • 20m
See Hōkan-ji, Kyoto’s iconic five-story pagoda, a symbol of the city’s timeless beauty.

Yasui-Konpiragu

  • 15m
Visit Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, famous for cutting bad ties and welcoming good relationships and new beginnings.

Hanamikoji Street

  • 15m
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.

Location

Activity location

  • LOB_ACTIVITIESLOB_ACTIVITIES
    Pontocho
    • Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • PEOPLEPEOPLE
    McDonald's - Shijo-ohashi Bridge
    • 105-1 Hashimotochō
    • 600-8011, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan

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