As famous for its ‘geisha’ and ‘maiko’ (geisha in training) as it is for its temples and shrines, Kyoto is the ideal location to enjoy the company and entertainment of Japan’s legendary performers. The geisha traditions first emerged during the Heian Period (794-1185) before developing into an artform that would be familiar to us today during Japan’s celebrated Edo Period (1603-1868). Though the role was once exclusively performed by men, it was during the Edo Period that women took on the role as geisha, renowned for their elegance, beauty, cultured conversation and ability to endless entertain their guests through a range of arts.

Kyoto is one of the few places in Japan where you will still see professional geisha and maiko in public today, on their way between appointments – mostly regularly seen in the Gion district. Hiring the services of a geisha is one of Kyoto’s most memorable experiences, and one that can be arranged through the highly-rated Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya Kyoto. Experiences typically run 1.5 hours for a private audience with professional geisha with English-speaking staff on-hand to facilitate conversation. For more information including booking options, click on the button below. Please note, Snow Monkey Resorts has no connection with this experience and cannot comment on its content or suitability.