Discover the Secret Side of Gion
Take a peaceful walk through Gion and explore quiet streets full of beauty and history. Learn all about geisha culture and the traditions of Kyoto in a fun and easy way. You might even see a real geisha! With lots of pretty spots for photos and an easy route for kids and older guests, this tour is a relaxing way to enjoy the magic of Kyoto.
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Disney Store Kyoto
- Disney Store - Kyoto Shijo-Kawaramachi
Kamo River
A peaceful “duck river” that runs through Kyoto. With cherry blossoms on the riverside, and outdoor dining terrace in summer.
Minami-za Kabuki Theater
Oldest Kabuki theater in Japan. A UNESCO World Heritage site.
Shirakawa River & Bridge
A quiet, scenic area with a small river, stone bridge, and willow trees. It’s one of the most beautiful photo spots in Gion.
Hanami-Koji Geisha Street (Flower Street)
A famous old street lined with tea houses and traditional wooden buildings. You may spot a geisha walking to work here.
Yasui Konpiragu Shrine
Known for its unique power stone. People come here to pray for breaking bad ties and forming good relationships.
Yasaka Pagoda Tower
A tall five-story pagoda that’s a Kyoto icon.
Ninenzaka
A charming stone-paved street with shops and cafés. It feels like stepping into old Kyoto.
Yasaka Shrine
One of Kyoto’s most famous shrines, especially known for the Gion Festival. It’s lively and open day and night.
Pontocho Alley
A narrow alley beside the river, filled with traditional restaurants and bars. A great place for food and a possible geisha sighting.
Ending Point
End the tour in Pontocho Alley, a nightlife and restaurant alley!
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
• Guide Fee
• Drinking Water
• Food/Snacks
• Hotel Pick Up
• Duration: 3 hours
• Easy walking pace, suitable for all ages
• Guided in English/Chinese
• Focus on geisha history, culture, and hidden streets
• Chance to see real geisha or maiko (not guaranteed)
• Many great photo spots
• Runs in all weather – bring an umbrella if needed
• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• No live geisha performances or direct interaction
Hi, I’m Jasmine! I am a friendly, multilingual guide based in Kyoto.
My tours are perfect for families with children and easy-paced for elderly guests. I offer warm, personal experiences filled with fun stories, local delights, and hidden gems you won’t find in guidebooks. Let’s explore Kyoto together!
Andrea L.
“Kyoto city tours”
Jasmine was such a delightful and helpful guide. She had good knowledge of historic sites as well as Japanese culture. I would highly recommend her
Nir L.
“Wonderful tour with Jasmine”
️️️️️ We had a wonderful five-hour tour with Jasmine, and she was absolutely amazing! She guided us gracefully through Kyoto’s temples and shrines, introduced us to delicious Japanese treats at the local market, and led us through the charming streets and the breathtaking bamboo forest. Jasmine is deeply knowledgeable and gave us fascinating insights into both ancient traditions and modern life in Japan. Her passion and storytelling made the experience truly memorable. We enjoyed every minute of our time together and highly recommend this tour! Thank you, Jasmine! Hanna & Nir
Jasmine L.
Thank you SO SO MUCH for such a sweet review!! It was lovely to meet the both of you, and I had a great time showing you around Kyoto. I hope you visit again! Safe flight back, and thank you again for choosing me as your Kyoto guide.
Janice L.
“Get to know Kyoto from someone who’s passionate about Japan”
A great introduction to Kyoto — 6 hours well spent with Jasmine. She is very enthusiastic, accommodating, observant, and catered well to our needs and preferences. She tailormade a tour for us and shifted plans as our cravings and interests developed. She gave us recommendations for places to have dinner and where to buy what. Very easy going, clearly someone who loves Japan and appreciates its culture and heritage. A good way to appreciate Kyoto for more than its tori gates and Geisha.
Jasmine L.
Thank you so much for booking the tour and for leaving such a kind review, Janice! It was a pleasure to be your tour guide and I had a wonderful time showing you around Kyoto. I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed the tour! Safe travels and I’m wishing you a smooth flight back :)
$165/ per group