Location: Gion
Top Things to do in Gion
Countries
What to do and see in Gion, Kinki: The Best Concerts & Shows
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. Miyagawacho Kaburenjo
2. Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 158 reviews
The Gion Koubu Kaburenjo (where Miyako Odori is performed) are temporary closed due to the initiation of long-term building maintenance (earthquake protection measures).
Reviewed By floridakeys2009
I believe the Gion Koby theatre is closed at the moment and for now the show took place in the Yasaka Hall. There are two shows one at 18.00 and one at 19.00. There are no reservations but the ticketing office open half an hour before and best to get there early as there are a limited number of seats. You can take photos but no flash. Al of the commentary is repeated in English. The show features a number of Japanese culture sets. Starting with a tea ceremony..... (Chado) this is followed by the music of the Koto ( a thirteen stringed instrument from about 1300 years ago) with a demonstration of Kano. A flower arrangement. Next up a Gagaku, which is an ancient court music ‘elegant’ is the description but I actually quite fierce with a masked dragon type individual and three musicians. This was followed by kyogen, an ancient comic play and despite it being played out in Japanese was actually quite funny. Then two dances from Maiko (trainee geisha) Kyomai (Kyoto style dance) our Maiko was Mame and Tama. Beautiful, the intricate movements and positions a pleasure to watch. The show ends with a puppet play, Bunraku, this is mesmerising and quite specials. The puppet is managed or played by three puppeteers in all, the main man unmasked the rest cloaked in black cloth so to blend in, the movement of the puppet is something to observe, very enthralling, it certainly draws you in. A great hour and definitely go to event in Kyoto.
3. Minamiza : The Kabuki Theater of Kyoto
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 154 reviews
The founding of the Minamiza Theatre goes all the way back to the beginning of the Edo Period (1596-1615). It is said that Izumo no Okuni performed 'kabuki odori' ('kabuki dances') in Kyoto in 1603 which attracted great attention, and during the same period, the dry bed of the Kamo River developed as a 'Theatre town' filled with the bustle and excitement of the people. The Minamiza Theatre started around this time, and has stood at this place for over 400 years always remaining at the center of entertainment, including kabuki. The Minamiza Theatre was designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property in 1996 and was even registered as a Structure of Historical Design in Kyoto shortly after. It will stage a wide range of productions throughout the year, from 'traditional Japanese performing arts' to 'the newest live entertainments'.
Reviewed By pugsly14 - Canberra, Australia
We saw a performance in this grand theatre and it was amazing. The building itself is beautiful, especially the interior. The show itself was fantastic - an outstanding performance by talented artists. The singing and music was magical, not to mention the choreography and costumes. In some theatre performances I find myself looking at my watch to see how long the show has been going, but I never did during this show. From start to finish I was mesmerised.
4. Yoshimoto Gion Kagetsu
5. Maiko Show
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
Kyoto real traditional "GEISHA" performance.
Reviewed By GrahamH387 - Antipolo City, Philippines
Its hard not to stare with open mouth, the girl was absolutely stunningly pretty and immaculately presented in her Kimono, and not a hair on her head out of place. The dance routines, 3 of them, were amazing to observe, the slight but subtle head movements and positioning. We got the opportunity to ask her questions via a translator which seemed to make the whole episode a little more personal. These girls give up a lot we take for granted in our every day lifestyles to pursue a life of tradition.
6. Gion Corner
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 521 reviews
Dancing geishas, puppet shows and musical performances are just some of the regular events to be seen at this popular theater in Kyoto's entertainment district.
Reviewed By Davesamtt
This was an enjoyable taste of seven Japanese art forms seamlessly interwoven together in under an hour that at times it seems like one event with several sub-plots. The event highlights the tea ceremony, floral arrangements, geisha dancers, comical theatre, puppetry, koto musical instrument and court music. The variety keeps your interest and always infused light humor. Ticketing at the venue was well organized, despite the many people and long queues, it moved fast. Seating was intimate so you felt close to the performance. The costumes even down to the puppets were dazzlingly gorgeous. Of course it’s no replacement for the fullscale events but having been to a full tea ceremony before, we were able to better follow and appreciate the shortened version at Gion Corner. You may not have time to experience all the art forms during your vacation - so much to do in Japan - so for what this is aiming to do, I think they did a great job. Performance times are usually 6 and 7pm but not all days in the year. Show lasts just under an hour. Go early to get good seats and guarantee your tickets as there was no option I am aware of to pre-book. After the show, you can wander around the narrow alley ways in the environs. The antiquated buildings carry you back centuries and you feel you are walking through the walking on the set of the movie Memoirs of a Geisha. There a lots of restaurants in these alleyways but be prepared to spend mucho dinero! All in all, Gion Corner was an enjoyable night out!
7. Club Iris
Kyoto Club iris is a nightclub located in the Gion, which guarantees to let you spend a wonderful time. The charm of our club lies in the hostesses that have been chosen carefully and the relaxing space in the club. Whether you come by yourself to relax or come as a group that wants to liven up the atmosphere, if you are in Gion, just leave it to iris.
8. Maiko Hananoseki
TAGS
