Gion

Historic district Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, Japan

What to expect

Gion is a district in Kyoto, Japan, known for its traditional Japanese architecture and entertainment. It is home to many geisha houses, teahouses, and traditional restaurants, and is a popular destination for tourists. The district is famous for its preserved streets and traditional shops, and visitors can see geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha) walking through the streets. Gion is also home to many cultural events and festivals, including the Miyako Odori, a traditional dance performance. The area is filled with narrow streets and alleys, lined with traditional machiya houses, many of which have been converted into restaurants, shops, and teahouses. Visitors can walk along the Philosopher's Path, a scenic walking path lined with cherry blossom trees, and visit the nearby Kiyomizu-dera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Plan your family visit to the Gion with these blog insights 👇

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KYOTO with family, Kyoto with children

KYOTO with family, Kyoto with children
This family's experience:

Activities: We went to Gion to admire the geishas and the Japanese in kimonos. We were told that it's where we had the best chance of seeing these gracious young women. We also saw many young couples and friends dressed in traditional kimonos

Highlights: Seeing the geishas was spectacular! We loved the traditional atmosphere of the old town. We really enjoyed this tranquil and pleasant walk, giving us an idea of what the city used to look like ✨

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10 AMAZING Reasons To Visit Japan With Kids + Itinerary & Tips

10 AMAZING Reasons To Visit Japan With Kids + Itinerary & Tips
This family's experience:

Activities: We explored the historic Gion district, known as the geisha district, and enjoyed the evening atmosphere

Highlights: We loved exploring the Gion district and learning about its history as the geisha district. It was a great place to see traditional Japanese culture ✨

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Visiting Kyoto before our week of wandering with the JR Pass

Visiting Kyoto before our week of wandering with the JR Pass
This family's experience:

Activities: We walked through the hyper-touristic Gion district, known for Geishas and Maikos. We saw many restaurants and tea houses. Photos were prohibited, except on the main streets. We are planning to go back at night when the atmosphere is completely different

Highlights: We will visit Gion at night. The area is known for Geishas and the atmosphere will be different at night ✨