Explore Gion and
Experience Kyoto Traditions in English

A Report on the Tour

Enjoy the attractions of Gion, Kyoto's most traditional and elegant area, with a professional English guide. The tour route covers several of the best parts of Gion and will give participants the chance to see for themselves the graceful figures of geiko and maiko going to or coming from work along Gion's delicately lit streets and alleys. A knowledgeable guide will talk in English about the history, tradition, and the secret daily life of maiko and geiko. This is a special way for you to get an inside look at one of Kyoto's best kept secrets.

Every Friday in July, August, September
Reservations not required.
Time required: about 100 min.
Meeting point: in front of Kitaza (one street north of Shijo, east of Kawabata)
1,000 yen /person (cash only; insurance not covered)

Schedule
17:30: reception
18:00: depart from the Kitaza--Gion Shinbashi--Tatsumi-bashi Bridge--Hanamikoji
19:40 Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre

Special advantages!!

1. A special English photo book about Kyoto's Hanamachi (geiko and maiko district) will be presented to the first 500 participants.

2. Tour participants can also enjoy the superb traditional performing art show at Gion Corner at a 500 yen discount (2,800 yen--2,300 yen)

Getting to the Kitaza

1. Take Kyoto City Bus #4, #17, or #205 from JR Kyoto Station; get off at Shijo Kawaramachi and walk about 5 min. to the northeast, or one-minute walk from Keihan Shijo Stn.

Enquiries: Kyoto City Tourist Association: Tel: 752-0227 (9:00-17:00; weekend only)

Organized by Kyoto City Tourist Association
In cooperation with Ookini Zaidan