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Highlights
- Experience a rare 90-minute maiko show inside Kounji Temple, a historic Zen temple ordinarily closed to the public.
- Limited to just 12 participants, this intimate experience is ideal for travelers seeking personal interaction with a maiko.
- Watch two traditional maiko dances, with an English-speaking guide explaining their cultural significance and traditions.
- Enjoy a traditional Japanese parlor game, Q&A, photos, and a temple and garden tour as time allows.
Your Experience
Step into Kounji Temple for an intimate 90-minute maiko show, where traditional dances, Japanese culture, games, and personal interaction come together inside a temple ordinarily closed to the public.
Getting started
Meet your English-speaking guide at the designated meeting point and enter Kounji Temple, a 13th-century Zen Buddhist temple and Japanese garden near Nanzenji Temple. After an introduction to the temple and the maiko, the experience begins with a traditional song and dance.
What to expect
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A maiko, a young apprentice geisha, performs traditional Japanese dances in an intimate setting. Her colorful kimono, elaborate hairstyle, and distinctive white makeup are part of the traditional maiko appearance.
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During the maiko’s break, your guide explains the meaning and significance of the song and dance. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions about Japanese culture, history, and traditions.
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Take part in a traditional Japanese zashiki game with the maiko. This interactive session gives you time to experience a more personal side of Japanese entertainment and culture.
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Your English-speaking guide helps facilitate communication, so you can ask the maiko questions directly.
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Spend time taking photos with the maiko, capturing a memorable moment from your Kyoto geisha experience.
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The maiko performs a second traditional dance before you explore Kounji Temple, including its butsudan (Buddhist altar) and Japanese garden, as time allows.
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Kounji Temple is ordinarily closed to the public, making this small-group maiko show a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture in an exclusive setting limited to 12 participants.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Entry to Kounji Zen Buddhist Temple
- 90-minute maiko show experience
- Traditional Japanese parlor game
- English-speaking guide
- Q&A session
- Photo time
- Temple and garden tour (if time allows)
- Transportation to the meeting point
This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.
Ticket Delivery
- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the experience starts.