Must-see entertainment in Kyoto

  • Geisha and maiko performance

    Minamiza

    Southern Higashiyama

    This theatre in Gion is the oldest kabuki theatre in Japan. The major event of the year is the Kaomise festival in December, which features Japan’s finest…

  • Miyako Odori

    Southern Higashiyama

    This 45-minute dance is a wonderful geisha performance. It’s a real stunner and the colourful images are mesmerising. It’s held throughout April, usually…

  • Taku-Taku

    Downtown Kyoto

    One of Kyoto’s most atmospheric live-music venues, with a long history of hosting some great local and international acts. Check the Kyoto Visitor's Guide…

  • Kyō Odori

    Southern Higashiyama

    Put on by the Miyagawa-chō geisha district, this wonderful geisha dance is among the most picturesque performances of the Kyoto year. It’s held from the…

  • Gion Odori

    Southern Higashiyama

    This is a quaint and charming geisha dance put on by the geisha of the Gion Higashi geisha district. It’s held from 1 to 10 November at the Gion Kaikan…

  • Kyoto Cuisine & Maiko Evening

    Southern Higashiyama

    If you want to witness geisha perform and then actually speak with them, one of the best opportunities is at Gion Hatanaka, a Gion ryokan that offers a…

  • Maiko Dinner Show Yasakadori Enraku

    Southern Higashiyama

    Traditional restaurant Yasadori Enraku started hosting intimate maiko (apprentice geisha) performances in early 2017. Guests are seated on tatami-mat…

  • Kamogawa Odori

    Downtown Kyoto

    Geisha dances from 1 to 24 May at Ponto-chō Kaburen-jō Theatre in Ponto-chō.

  • Gion Corner

    Southern Higashiyama

    Gion Corner presents one-hour shows that include a bit of tea ceremony, koto (Japanese zither) music, ikebana (art of flower arranging), gagaku (court…

  • Maiko Theatre

    Southern Higashiyama

    This is a new spot hosting maiko shows for small groups in a modern building. It includes a bit of tea ceremony, two short dances, conversation time and…

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