The Gion neighborhood is a wide area with Yasaka Shrine in the east, Kennin-ji Temple in the south, Kamogawa River in the west, and Shinbashi-Dori Street in the north. The entertainment district is lined with luxury Japanese restaurants, local cafes, and Japan’s oldest theater- “Minamiza”, which is famous for “Kaomise” (an event people can meet Kabuki face-to-face). You will also see Geisha and Maiko casually strolling along the streets in the Gion area. Every April, the “Miyako Odori” performance by the Geisha and Maiko is held.
While you are there, be sure to stop by the Gion Corner in Yasaka Hall. Appreciate Japan’s seven traditional arts (reservation required)ーKyomai dance, flower arrangement, tea ceremony, Koto, Gagaku, Kyogen, and Bunrakuーall in one place. The performances are popular not only among Japanese but also among foreign tourists. There is also a maiko gallery showcasing accessories such as floral hairpins maiko uses.
