Location: Kyoto
Top Things to do in Kyoto
Countries
Top 10 Concerts & Shows in Kyoto, Kinki
The shrines and temples of Kyoto offer a rare link between modern life in the city and its very ancient past. The Shimogamo Shrine dates to the 6th century and seems suspended in time, its serenity and spiritual power still palpable. Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, then see the life-sized Thousand Armed Kannon statues of Sanjūsangen-dō. Enjoy traditional geisha performances, then savor a tranquil meal at a restaurant overlooking the Kamo River.
Restaurants in Kyoto
1. Kawamura Noh Theater
2. Samurai Kenbu Theater
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 787 reviews
Kenbu, literally means 'sword dance' is one of Japanese traditional performing arts that shows the spirits and the culture of the Samurai. Samurai kenbu show and other lesson programs are available. All programs are held in English. Come and feel the traditions of the Samurai!!
Reviewed By Beenster - Yardley, United States
One of the highlights of our visit to Kyoto, learned more history than at the Nijo castle then had a chance to do some samurai training and ninja training, we added the tea ceremony to get a flavor of that as well. Fun and educational activity that provides some insight into Japanese history
3. The Last and Only Samurai Show
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
The Last and Only Samurai Show is consists of two parts, one is a brief lecture on Bushi-do, the way with Samurai,and actual real sword demonstration within 40 minutes. Samurai Joe Okada,54 years of tour guiding and over 2500 samurai shows since 1977. The Show can be booked at any day providing the availability. A minimum of 5 guests is needed for booking.
4. KYOTO Butoh-kan
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 110 reviews
Butoh is an avant-garde dance that was born in Japan in the 1950s. Expressing a Japanese physicality and spirituality, the unique style of Butoh was a fresh challenge to the dance aesthetics of the time, undermining them from the ground up. Since then, Butoh has had a lasting impact on the world of dance. Even now, Butoh enjoys especially high recognition abroad, but within Japan, information relating to Butoh is hard to come by, and the fact is that there are few venues where one can experience Butoh. Art Complex has revived an ancient Japanese storehouse-an intimate space limited to eight seats-which will be devoted to long-run Butoh performances, so that Kyoto becomes "the place" to see Butoh dance. Furthermore, we are creating a Butoh Web Portal that will serve as an international resource for information about Butoh.
Reviewed By aaronc191
I almost didn't blink the entire time. So intimate, so intense, so vivid, I've never seen anything like it. Really worth it if you enjoy the arts - especially for cutting edge and provocative tastes. What you don't realize is that this is a show for not more than 10 people - at all times we are just a few feet away from the actors and you are so close you can even see their sweat and hear their breath. It adds a whole new intense dimension to an already intense experience. Loved it.
5. Bar Out Loop Way
6. Ran Theatre Kyoto
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 322 reviews
The concept of RAN is to have a fun filled night with traditional music and local sake and beer. Here you can see all the famous traditional musicians under one roof. We invited musicians from all over Japan to come to Kyoto, the centre of Japanese traditional culture to entertain you with this exciting performance. There is a mix of classic songs and songs adapted from pop culture. We invite you to enjoy a few drinks from our selection of local sake and beer while you enjoy the show. We also ask you to join in on the fun by clapping along, waving your arms side to side and maybe even joining the band!
Reviewed By G3995HVsaral - Melbourne, Australia
Ran Theatre Kyoto's Friday night show is the highlight of my Kyoto trip thus far! Where else can you enjoy an intimate evening immersed in traditional Japanese music with 6 very talented musicians... who are so engaging and harmonised that it just took my breath away! The energy is dynamite from the start- the show is well balanced with upbeat songs, interspersed with slower, moving melodies, and also modern fusions that gave the music a rock edge at times. I loved how animated and engaging the musicians were, the way that they synchronised was just entrancing! Audience participation was a lot of fun and put a smile on everyone's faces- I loved learning how to play the Japanese drums- it is a memory i will cherish! The venue is intimate and you can enjoy a drink or two- we were right up front so had a fantastic view. It is so unique to have this opportunity to enjoy live music in the heart of Kyoto. I've seen a lot of performances/ theatre in the past and this show was just phenomenal. We booked tickets online for a discounted rate and enjoyed 80 minutes of incredible entertainment. We even had the chance to take photos with all the musicians which was another highlight:)!! We are a couple on our honeymoon and this show was just a brilliant way to absorb some precious culture, relax after several busy days of sightseeing and to enjoy some serious music talent:). We also learned about the musical instruments and learned about traditional folk songs. Excellent value and a top experience- please do yourself a favor and go to Ran Theatre Kyoto!
7. Enchanted time with Maiko
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 66 reviews
At this event, you can interact with Maiko directly at the exceptional price on every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday from 6 pm to 8 pm. This tour includes dinner, English guide, watching traditional dancing, and playing the unique game with Maiko.
Reviewed By benliau93
Enchanted time with Maiko was a one-of-a-kind experience! We were enthralled by the dance performances and enjoyed learning more about the culture of Kyoto as well as how life as a Maiko and Geiko is like! The other staff, facilitators and translators were excellent as well, making sure we understood everything that was going on that night! I would definitely recommend this to people who are willing and interested to explore the lesser known parts of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage and want to get to know the people behind this beautiful city. This is certainly an experience that made my trip to Kyoto stand out among any holiday I've been on!
8. Miyagawacho Koan
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 166 reviews
9. Koan Hanare
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 149 reviews
Reviewed By Ko0625
I enjoyed having a chat with Maiko-san, learning about Japanese very traditional culture, and having special dinner! Joining Koan Hanare must be really amazing time when you visit Kyoto. You can play a traditional party game with Maiko-san as well. It's a really wonderful experience.
