Kyoto Tour with Lunch and Geisha Performance
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join a tour by MagicalTrip, proud winner of the Tripadvisor Best of the Best Award. Each experience is led by a MagicalTrip Certified Guide, professionally trained and carefully selected to ensure quality and authenticity.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Kyoto's Geisha culture during this unique lunch experience. Savor an exquisite kaiseki meal while enjoying a live performance by a Geisha (Maiko or Geiko). Engage in traditional games, ask questions through an interpreter, and capture memorable photos with the Geisha. This intimate two-hour tour offers a delightful blend of authentic cuisine and cultural insights, making it perfect for those interested in Japan's rich traditions.
- Enjoy a full-course Kyoto Kaiseki lunch in a traditional setting
- Experience live Geisha performances, including dance and conversation
- Participate in classic Geisha games and take memorable photos
- Small group size ensures personalized attention and interaction
Available options
Kyoto Tour with Lunch and Geisha Performance
What's included
Geisha (Maiko or Geiko) performance
A Certified guide by MagicalTrip
Photos with Geisha (Maiko or Geiko)
Kyoto Kaiseki Cuisine Lunch
Detailed itinerary
1
12:30 Meet up in front of the Izumo no okuni Statue
2
Stop 2
12:45 Arrive at restaurant
Meet your friendly local guide at the designated meeting point and begin a relaxing walk through Kyoto’s charming streets. As you explore Miyagawacho, a real neighborhood where Geisha(Maiko or Geiko) live and work, your guide will explain traditional Kyoto townhouses and share fascinating stories about the history, culture, and daily life of Geisha(Maiko or Geiko).
3
Stop 3
13:00 Japanese Cuisine course lunch
13:00 Geisha(Maiko or Geiko) arrive at restaurant/Geisha Performance
Step inside a traditional Kyoto restaurant and settle in for a beautifully Kyoto's kaiseki full course meal. While enjoying seasonal Kyoto cuisine, your guide will introduce the dishes and dining customs. Soon after, a Geisha(Maiko or Geiko) gracefully enters the room, and you’ll enjoy her elegant dance performance up close as you dine.
4
13:45 Playing games / chatting with Geisha(Maiko or Geiko)
13:55 Photo time with Geisha(Maiko or Geiko)
After the performance, enjoy relaxed conversation with the Geisha(Maiko or Geiko) through an interpreter guide, making it easy to ask questions and connect. You’ll also try traditional Geisha(Maiko or Geiko) games together and have time to take photos.
5
14:10 Geisha(Maiko or Geiko) leave
14:30 The tour will conclude in front of the restaurant after lunch
Finally, see the Geisha(Maiko or Geiko) off and continue enjoying your Kyoto lunch at a leisurely pace.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
12:30 Meet up in front of the Izumo no okuni Statue
Please avoid directly touching the Geisha's(Maiko or Geiko) Kimono or Obi, as they are delicate and highly valuable.
Drinks are not included in the tour price, so feel free to order your favorites separately during the experience.
Out of respect for other guests and to ensure the best tour for everyone, we must start the tour on time.
You will not be able to join the tour, get refund or rescheduled if you are late for the tour.
We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, and allergy-related requests if notified at least 48 hours in advance. Please note that we may not be able to accommodate requests made after this time.
Meeting point
Gion Shijo Station, right outside of Exit 5, in front of Izumo no Okuni Statue
A guide will be holding a orange signboard saying "Magical Trip Tour"
About Kyoto
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.
Top Attractions
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.
Religious
2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike)
Free
Kiyomizu-dera
A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.
Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)
Gion
Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).
Cultural
1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event)
Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kaiseki Ryori
A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.
Dinner
Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.
Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)
A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.
Matcha Desserts
Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Obanzai
Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Cycling through the countryside
Rafting on the Hozu River
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Scenic walks in gardens and parks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional tea ceremonies
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.
15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn)
59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited/Rare
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto
By train
Kyoto Station
By bus
Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gion
Higashiyama
Arashiyama
Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)
Day trips
Nara
40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day
Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.
Uji
20 km from Kyoto • Half day
Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).
Kurama and Kibune
25 km from Kyoto • Full day
Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Festivals
Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th)
Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd
Aoi Matsuri • May 15th
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
- Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
- Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.
$253
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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