How to See Maiko and Geiko in Kyoto This Autumn (Gion Odori Nov 1–10)
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Gion Odori: Kyoto's autumn dance
Every year from November 1 to 10, the maiko and geiko of Gion Higashi perform Gion Odori at the Gion Kaikan Theater. It is the only main dance performance held by one of Kyoto's five geisha districts in autumn, so it draws visitors from Japan and abroad.
The other four districts hold smaller showcases and review sessions around the same time, and these are open to the public too. See Kyoto Travel's autumn dance guide for the latest details and tickets.
Other ways to see maiko and geiko
If your dates don't match, a booked performance is the respectful way to meet this culture:
Geisha and Gion history walking tour (Viator), with a guide who knows where you can and can't go
Gion etiquette: what not to do
Gion is a neighborhood where people live and work. Kyoto City asks visitors not to touch, chase or photograph geiko and maiko without permission, not to enter private property, and not to block streets in large groups.
Some narrow lanes in Gion are private roads. Residents have put up signs banning entry and photography there, warning of a fine of up to 10,000 yen. Hanamikoji Street itself is a public road.
Explore Kyoto hands-free with KOMATSU
KOMATSU is a luggage delivery and storage service inside Kyoto City. Hand your bags to us at Kyoto Station, spend the day sightseeing, and your luggage is at your hotel when you get there.
Send a request through the booking form or LINE. Requests are accepted from 6:00 to 23:00, seven days a week. Your booking is confirmed only when our staff reply.
Meet us at Kyoto Station, in front of Kyoto Theatre at the Central Exit (north side). Please don't go to the Hachijo Exit. Arriving by airport limousine bus? Meet us in front of Hoshino Coffee.
Head out sightseeing. Choose a delivery time up to 18:00 the same day.
Same-day delivery is 900 yen per bag, with no advance payment. We deliver within our area inside Kyoto City. If your hotel is further out, message us on LINE before you book.
Please carry valuables, cash, your passport, phone, chargers and medicine yourself. Deliveries have no compensation or insurance.
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