Gion Guided Walking Tour with Kaiseki Dinner

Gion’s reputation as a culinary district and an entertainment hub stretch back to the Edo period. Over centuries it evolved into a neighborhood of bustling Japanese teahouses where Kimono-clad dancers–Geisha performed for the Imperial rulers.

Step Back in Time at Yasaka Shrine and Shirakawa Area

Begin your journey by visiting Yasaka Shrine, a remarkable example of Heian-era architecture with a giant granite torii measuring 9.5m. The shrine's roof adorned with cypress shingles, houses many treasures, including a pair of intricately carved wooden lion dogs crafted by the celebrated sculptor Unkei.

As you walk down the little alleyways of Gion, you’ll see wood-latticed shop fronts and bamboo verandas by the roadside. And it is likely that you’ll even catch a glimpse of a Geisha strolling down the lantern-lit walkways in their wooden geta sandals. While you work up an appetite exploring the stunning Shirakawa area, your guide will share tales of the culture and imperial history of Kyoto, tossing you back in time amid the classic Japanese architecture.

Dig into a 10-course Meal

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime dinner with a Japanese multi-course Kaiseki meal served in magnificent traditional utensils. The gorgeously-plated dishes showcase seasonal produce and consist of a variety of appetizers, sashimi, grilled and simmered dishes, and rice-based courses. Follow proper dinner etiquette in Japan, say "itadakimasu" before and "gochiso-sama deshita" after the meal, use the oshibori towel for hand-wiping, and place chopsticks in the hashioki when not in use.

Itinerary

Meet up at Kyoto Kanji Museum–Yasaka Shrine–Shirakawa Neighborhood–10-course Kaiseki Dinner