10 Best Things to Do in Gion: Kyoto's Geisha District and Top Attractions

The Gion district in Kyoto is Japan's most famous geisha neighborhood. Here, you'll discover charming traditional buildings with lantern-lit courtyards and elegant townhouse-style restaurants that seem straight out of a fairy tale. Today, Gion is home to an estimated 70 geisha and 30 maiko (apprentice geisha), who work at 60 teahouses across the area. 

Ever wanted to meet a real maiko or geisha? At Maikoya Kyoto, you can take part in a traditional tea ceremony and share this unique experience with a geisha.

Contents

• Top 10 Things to See and Do in and Around Gion, Kyoto
• The Rich History of Gion: Kyoto's Iconic Geisha District
• Annual Festivals and Matsuri in Gion, Kyoto
• How to get to Gion, Kyoto
• Gion Geisha Photo Ban
• Gion FAQ

Top 10 Things to See and Do in and Around Gion, Kyoto

1. Experience a Kimono Tea Ceremony in Kyoto

Just a 15-minute stroll from Gion’s enchanting streets, Maikoya invites you to experience one of Kyoto’s best-rated tea ceremonies. Here, you’ll not only savor the art of traditional tea preparation but also have the chance to step into a beautifully crafted kimono for free, immersing yourself fully in the elegance of Japanese culture. After wandering through Gion’s historic alleys, relax in this serene setting and let the calming rituals of the tea ceremony transport you to another time, making for a truly unforgettable Kyoto experience.

2. Visit the Samurai Ninja Museum Kyoto

While in Gion, history enthusiasts and families alike can explore Japan’s rich samurai past at the nearby Samurai Ninja Museum Kyoto. Though not located within Gion itself, this top-rated museum offers an immersive experience into the world of samurai and ninjas. Visitors of all ages can enjoy interactive exhibits, guided tours, and even hands-on activities like ninja training. It’s a great addition to your Kyoto visit, bringing a bit of adventure and history to complement the traditional charm of Gion.

3. Stroll Along Hanamikoji Street

Hanamikoji Street is the heart of Gion, where visitors often stroll. This charming lane, lined with traditional wooden houses and teahouses, serves as Gion's central landmark. Unlike other Kyoto streets, it’s free of overhead electric lines, preserving its historic character as a designated preservation site. In the evenings, the warm glow of lanterns illuminates the path, and visitors may spot geisha and maiko in colorful kimono heading to their appointments, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s timeless beauty and cultural heritage.

4. Visit Kenninji Temple

If you continue walking towards the end of Hanamikoji Street or simply follow the crowds, you’ll encounter a grand black gate leading to Kenninji Temple. Stepping through, you'll immediately be enveloped in a sense of tranquility. Established in 1202 by the monk Eisai, who introduced tea culture to Japan from China, Kenninji is the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto. While there, be sure to admire the famous "Wind and Thunder Gods" painting by Tawaraya Sotatsu, as well as the stunning twin dragon painting on the ceiling of the hatto. Note that the temple closes at 5 pm, and there is an entrance fee of 500 JPY.

5. Explore the Historic Pontocho Alley

A walk through the historic Pontocho Alley offers a unique glimpse into Kyoto's traditional nightlife. This narrow, atmospheric lane runs parallel to the Kamogawa River and is lined with charming wooden buildings, many of which house intimate restaurants and bars. Pontocho comes alive in the evenings, with lanterns casting a warm glow along the cobblestone streets, creating a nostalgic ambiance. The alley has long been a center of Kyoto's entertainment culture, and today it still retains its old-world charm, offering visitors a chance to experience a different side of Gion’s vibrant atmosphere.

6. Explore Yasui Konpiragu Shrine & The Love Stone

Yasui Konpiragu Shrine, originally established over 800 years ago for Emperor Sutoku, the shrine was relocated to Gion about 400 years ago. It enshrines both Emperor Sutoku and the deity of ships and sailors. In the center of the shrine, you'll find a large stone covered with small pieces of white paper. Shaped like an "ema" (the wooden plaques found at Shinto shrines), this stone is part of a local legend: if you write your wishes on a wooden ema and crawl under the stone, it is said to break bad relationships and pave the way for new, positive ones.

7. Visit the iconic Yasaka-no To Pagoda

Just a short walk from Yasui Konpiragu Shrine stands one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks: the Yasaka-no-To Pagoda, also known as Hokanji Temple. If a time-travel movie were to be filmed in Kyoto, this would surely be the perfect location. Standing tall since the 1500s, this five-story pagoda transports you straight back to the Edo period. It’s no surprise that many travelers feature a picture of Yasaka-no-To Pagoda on the cover of their Kyoto trip albums.

8. Relax at the Gion Shirakawa Canal and Shirakawa Dori

After exploring the Shirakawa area, take a moment to admire the nearby Gion Tatsumi Bridge. This small, historic wooden bridge offers a peaceful pause amidst the beauty of the canal and its picturesque surroundings. Often overlooked by tourists, the bridge provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate Kyoto’s natural and architectural harmony. With its classic design and tranquil setting, the Gion Tatsumi Bridge is a quiet escape that captures the timeless essence of Gion.

10. Explore the Miyagawacho Geisha Neighborhood

Geisha walking in Miyagawacho. Miyagawacho is only 5-minute walk from Gion © Kyoto Geisha Show & Experience Gion Maikoya

Head away from the crowds, and within a few minutes, you'll find yourself in the Miyagawacho Geisha neighborhood. Though just 500 meters from the main street in Gion, this area is considered a separate geisha district due to its historic significance. If you’re a fan of geisha, don’t miss this quieter spot. Miyagawacho offers a more peaceful atmosphere than Hanamikoji Street, and you’re more likely to spot geisha walking by, as it’s home to several geisha lodging houses (okiya) and traditional teahouses (ochaya).

Interested in meeting a real maiko or geisha? Join a tea ceremony at Maikoya Kyoto and enjoy the unique opportunity to experience it alongside a geisha!

The Rich History of Gion: Kyoto's Iconic Geisha District

In 1772, the Tokugawa shogunate allowed Gion to develop its own unique business style. In 1871, Yasaka Shrine, formerly known as Gion Shrine, was given the prestigious title of kanpei-taisha, the highest rank for government-supported shrines. This led to more teahouses being built near the shrine, where many geisha served tea to visitors. In 1881, Gion was split into two districts: Gion Kobu and Gion Otsubu. By the Meiji period, there were over 700 teahouses and more than 3,000 geiko and maiko in the area.

During World War II, many geisha left the profession. In 1945, Yasaka Shrine lost its status as a kanpei-taisha with the end of State Shintoism. In 1949, Gion Otsubu was renamed Higashi Shinchi, and in 1955, it changed again to Gion Higashi. In 1974, Kyoto City designated Gion as a special protection area, and since then, all buildings and street plans have been strictly controlled. In 2001, power lines were moved underground, and cobblestones were installed to preserve the area’s historic charm.

Annual Festivals and Matsuri in Gion, Kyoto

Famous Annual Dance Festivals (April and November)

Gion is a culturally rich district in Kyoto, known for its historic annual celebrations and traditional dances. Both Gion Kobu and Gion Higashi host significant dance performances each year. Gion Kobu is home to the renowned Miyako Odori, or “Dances of the Old Capital,” held every April. This celebrated event has been a tradition in Gion since 1872 and draws visitors from around the world.

Gion Higashi also hosts its own annual dance, the Gion Odori, each November. While newer—dating back to 1953—this performance remains an important and captivating event, offering a more intimate but equally enchanting experience of Kyoto’s cultural heritage.

Gion Matsuri Festival (July)

Also known as the Gion Festival (祇園祭) or the Yasaka Shrine Festival, the Gion Matsuri is one of Japan’s most famous traditional celebrations. Over the years, the festival has grown so large that it spans the entire month of July, filling the streets with music, vibrant colors, food, and an exciting festive atmosphere.

While the festival takes place throughout the month, there are a few standout events. The grand float procession, Yamaboko Junko, takes place on July 17. Leading up to this, there are lively street parties, including Yoiyama (July 16), Yoiyoiyama (July 15), and Yoiyoiyoiyama (July 14), which offer just as much excitement as the main event.

How to get to Gion, Kyoto

Gion is easily accessible from Kyoto Station by bus (bus number 100 or 206). The ride takes about 20 minutes and costs 230 yen. Simply get off at the Gion bus stop. Alternatively, you can take the train to Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line or Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line, both of which are close to the district.

Gion Geisha Photo Ban

Since November 25, 2019, photography has been prohibited on several side streets of Hanamikoji Street in Gion. This measure was introduced in response to growing concerns over disrespectful behavior by tourists, which includes:

• Blocking paths to take photos
• Chasing or harassing geisha
• Touching their kimono, hair, or accessories
• Attempting to take selfies with them
• Photographing geisha while they are with guests
• Littering in the streets of Gion
• Eating, drinking, or smoking while walking
• Sitting on the streets

Important to Remember

Geisha are professionals and individuals who deserve respect and privacy. They are not tourist attractions but artists often on their way to work. Intrusive behavior can disrupt their schedules, jeopardize their safety on Gion's narrow streets, and invade the privacy of their clients. Always admire the beauty of Gion and its geisha from a respectful distance.

Gion FAQ

• What are the top things to do in Gion?
  Top activities in Gion include experiencing a traditional kimono tea ceremony at Maikoya, visiting the immersive Samurai Ninja Museum Kyoto, strolling down the scenic Hanamikoji Street, visiting the historic Kenninji Temple, and exploring the charming Pontocho Alley. 

• Where can I spot a geisha in Gion?
  Geisha and maiko can often be spotted in the historic Hanamikoji Street, where they walk to their appointments at teahouses. Additionally, the Miyagawacho Geisha neighborhood, just a short walk from Gion, is a quieter spot where you might encounter geisha, especially in the evening.

• What festivals take place in Gion?
  Gion hosts several notable festivals, including the Gion Matsuri (Gion Festival) in July, one of Japan’s largest and oldest celebrations, the Gion Kobu Dance in April, and the Gion Odori in November. These festivals celebrate Gion’s cultural heritage with traditional dances, parades, and vibrant street events.

• How do I get to Gion?
  Gion is easily accessible by bus or train from Kyoto Station. You can take bus 100 or 206 directly to the Gion stop or use the Keihan Line to reach Gion-Shijo Station. The area is also close to other popular attractions, making it convenient for visitors to explore.

• What is the Gion Geisha Photo Ban?
  Since November 25, 2019, a photo ban has been enforced in several areas of Gion, particularly around Hanamikoji Street, to protect the privacy of the geisha and maiko. Tourists are asked to refrain from photographing geisha, especially while they are working, and to respect their privacy by keeping a respectful distance.