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While researching my Japan trip, a tea ceremony with a geisha was high on my list. I booked the Geisha (Maiko) Tea Ceremony & Show in Kyoto Gion Kiyomizu with MAIKOYA, and it was one of the most memorable things I did in Kyoto.
Getting there (and my late arrival)
I arrived late to my timeslot because I underestimated how long it takes to hike up and down the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. Leave plenty of buffer if you’re pairing the two in one day. My taxi driver managed to find the tiny alleyway, though I had to point out that we were heading in the wrong direction.
Tip: MAIKOYA has several locations, so double-check you’re going to the right one. Mine was in Gion, the area best known for geisha.
A note on photos in Gion
Gion is perfect for this experience, but because of overtourism, local authorities have restricted access to some alleyways and private residential areas. There is a strict fine of $160 for taking photos of geisha and maiko in the street. Respect the rules and save your photos for the experience itself.
What happens during the experience
- Q&A: The session starts with a short talk about geisha culture. I missed part of this because I was late, so don’t make my mistake.
- Maiko performance: A maiko (a geisha in training) performs. Seeing the dance, the make-up and the outfit in person is stunning.
- Tea ceremony: Once a year, geisha from the Kamishichiken area serve matcha to locals at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. To keep that tradition alive, MAIKOYA hosts a tea ceremony every afternoon, led by a geisha, in its historic teahouse, a registered cultural property. You can take part and chat with the geisha.
- Matcha and wagashi: A matcha set arrives and you whisk your own matcha, served with traditional wagashi sweets.
After the 50-minute experience
After the 50-minute experience, you’re welcome to wander around the premises. The place is tranquil and has plenty of photo opportunities, so it’s a lovely spot to take your time and capture the memory.
Book the MAIKOYA tea ceremony
For more information and to book, visit the MAIKOYA website.
Location: Kimono Tea Ceremony MAIKOYA Gion Kiyomizu
100 Rokurocho, Matsubara-dori Yamatooji Higashi iru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
京都市東山区松原通大和大路東入轆轤町100
