Kyoto Temple Geisha or Maiko Dance, Zen Garden & Tea Experience

4.9 (134 reviews) Kyoto, Japan
Duration1h 30m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 20 travelers

Overview

Step into a rarely accessible temple in Kyoto and immerse yourself in the refined world of Maiko (Geisha) culture. This exclusive cultural experience invites you to watch elegant traditional dance performances, enjoy tea with sweets, and interact with a Maiko (Geisha) up close, including a commemorative photo. You will also take part in a hands-on Zen garden activity, learning to rake sand in a dry landscape garden that reflects Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness. An English-speaking guide provides cultural insights throughout. Choose between a 14:00 or 15:30 start time to suit your schedule, and enjoy a tranquil, intimate setting that offers a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s living traditions.

Options

15:30 Meet-up
14:00 Meet-up

What's included

  • Maiko (Geisha) dance performance viewing
  • Green tea with sweets
  • Picture taking
  • English-speaking guide
  • Dry landscape garden sand raking experience

What to expect

  1. Ikkain
    10m · Admission ticket included
    [Guide Introduction] The guide will introduce the temple and provide insights into maiko culture.
  2. Ikkain
    20m · Admission ticket included
    [Garden Experience] Step into a dry landscape garden symbolizing Zen and try raking the sand yourself. Enjoy a calm, memorable moment. In rainy or stormy weather, the experience may be shortened with indoor viewing.
  3. Ikkain
    20m · Admission ticket included
    [Maiko Culture Experience] Enjoy watching two elegant maiko dance performances while relaxing with tea and sweets in a serene temple setting. Please note that the tea served is not matcha.
  4. Ikkain
    20m · Admission ticket included
    [Maiko Interaction Time] Enjoy a relaxed moment with the maiko, where you can chat freely, ask questions, and capture a memorable photo together.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your English-speaking tour guide holding a JTB Sunrise Tours sign in front of the entrance gate of Ikkain Temple

End point

Meet your English-speaking tour guide holding a JTB Sunrise Tours sign in front of the entrance gate of Ikkain Temple

Additional information

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • During the maiko (geisha) culture experience, maiko (geisha) may be present instead depending on the day. Maiko (geisha) cannot be selected
  • An English-speaking guide will provide commentary
  • Children 0-5 years old cannot join the tour
  • During the visit, please take off your shoes. Please be sure to wear socks
  • Regarding Green tea with sweets, the menu cannot be changed

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.9 (134)
From
23,000.00 JPY per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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