Neighbourhood guide

Gion

Teahouses and lanterns

Kyoto

The vibe

The district of geiko and maiko: wooden façades, teahouses and lantern-lit lanes along Hanamikōji and the Shirakawa canal. Discover Gion at dusk, voices lowered.

Good to know

Some private lanes are closed to visitors: follow the signs and do not photograph geiko without permission.

When to go

Early evening, and in July for the Gion Matsuri festival.

Getting there

Keihan train to Gion-Shijō, or Hankyū to Kyoto-Kawaramachi.

The story

How the neighbourhood came to be

Gion grew in the Edo period to serve pilgrims visiting Yasaka Shrine. It became one of Japan’s most famous hanamachi (geiko districts).

Did you know?

1The Gion Matsuri in July is one of Japan’s most famous festivals.
2In Kyoto, people say “geiko” rather than “geisha”.

Want to explore further?

See on the map Plan a day