Gion Tour & Maiko or Geisha Dinner — Guide June
August, 2024
This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Tour Itinerary
- 15:30 Hotel Meet
- Since a heatstroke alert was issued that day, we started the tour after talking about the history of the geisha district and maiko/geiko in the hotel lobby.
- 15:50 Gion Kita/Shirakawa Tatsumi Bridge – Furumonzen-dori – Sanjo Ohashi Bridge – Pontocho – 17:15 Hotel
- *Because it was hot, we temporarily paused the tour and had guests rest at the hotel. The tour resumed 30 minutes later. (The remaining 30 minutes were conducted after dinner)
- 17:45 Hotel – 18:00 Kaiseki @ Gion Hayakawa (one maiko in attendance) – 20:45 Gion Hanamikoji – Kaburenjo Theater – 21:15 Return to hotel
What Is a Private Kyoto Evening Walking Tour and Kaiseki Dinner Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
Because a heatstroke warning alert had been issued and it was extremely hot, and the tour started at 3:30, I first consulted with the guests about how much time they would like to spend on the walking tour before we began. As a result, we moved the remaining 30 minutes of the walking tour to after dinner when it would be cooler, and the guests rested a little in their room before dinner.
The guests were very pleased, saying that the dinner was a truly precious and special experience for them. They finished all nine courses of the kaiseki meal without leaving anything, and the owner of the restaurant was very happy as well. The maiko who joined us this time, Asuha, mentioned that she was not used to dining occasions with international guests, but she answered all the questions from the guests and the guide, and she also actively asked the guests questions herself.
The dinner lasted more than two and a half hours, but the guests seemed to thoroughly enjoy the wonderful time.
Click here for more details: Gion Tour & Maiko or Geisha Dinner with Licensed Guide
Hello, everyone.
I’m Junko Yoshida, the government licensed national guide.
I have a deep passion for traveling and enjoying plays and musicals.
Originally hailing from Kyoto, Japan, I worked as a hotel concierge in Kyoto after completing my college education. Following my retirement, I decided to continue working in the travel industry as a tour guide.
Kyoto holds a special place in my heart as it is where I grew up and where I have dedicated my career. With a history spanning over 1000 years, Kyoto has fostered a culture that Japan can take pride in.
Together, let us explore this beautiful city and create a holiday experience that is both special and unforgettable.