Gion Corner: A Cultural Sampler
Experience Kyoto's traditional performing arts, including dance, tea ceremony, and puppet theater, in a one-hour show at Gion Corner.
Located in the heart of Kyoto's Gion district, Gion Corner is a theater that provides visitors with an opportunity to experience a variety of traditional Japanese performing arts in a single, one-hour show. This cultural venue is situated in Yasaka Hall, next to the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre. Gion Corner was created to offer accessible artistic performances, supported by the Oonoki Zaidan association to promote Gion as a center for traditional arts. The performances include Kyomai dance performed by maiko (apprentice geisha), chanoyu (tea ceremony), ikebana (flower arranging), koto music, gagaku (court music), kyogen (comic plays), and bunraku (puppet theater). Depending on the season, a noh play may also be performed. Each art is presented in an easy-to-digest format, balancing pacing and authenticity, making it ideal for first-time viewers. Gion Corner is particularly popular with foreign tourists due to its efficient overview of Japanese performing arts. In addition to the performances, there is also a Maiko Gallery, which displays videos of dances, hair decorations worn by maiko, and other related items.
Local tips
- Purchase tickets in advance through the Gion Corner website or at the Kyoto Tourist Information Center to ensure availability.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance to secure your spot, as shows can be popular.
- Check the performance schedule for seasonal variations, such as bunraku puppet plays or noh plays.
- Visit the Maiko Gallery to see videos of dances and maiko hair ornaments.
- Consider a premium seat for a more comfortable viewing experience with detailed information and translations.
A brief summary to Gion Corner
- 570-2 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Kyoto, Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0074, JP
- +8175-561-1119
Getting There
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Walking
Gion Corner is located in the Gion district, a short walk from several key points. From Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Line), exit and walk east towards Yasaka Shrine. Gion Corner is located near the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater, next to Yasaka Hall. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are associated with this final approach.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus, take Kyoto City Bus lines 100 or 206 to the Gion bus stop. From there, walk towards Shijo Street and then east towards Yasaka Shrine. Gion Corner is near the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater. A single bus fare within Kyoto City is ¥230 [https://www2.city.kyoto.lg.jp/kotsu/webguide/en/ticket/regular_fare.html]. The walk from the bus stop is approximately 3-5 minutes.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Kyoto. From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Gion Corner will cost approximately ¥1,200 - ¥1,500, depending on traffic. Ask the driver to take you to Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater; Gion Corner is located in the adjacent Yasaka Hall. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Travel Experiences Inspired by This Location
Attractions Nearby to Gion Corner
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Gion Kōbu Kaburenjō
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Yasaka club
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Gion Karyo
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Yasui Kompiragū Shrine
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Kenninji Ryosokuin
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Nishi-Hanamikoji Street
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Japan Kanji Museum & Library
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Hanamikoji Street
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Kennin-ji
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Kenninji Temple
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Saryo Tsujiri Tea House, Gion Main Shop
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Kahitsukan – Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art
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Gion
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Yasaka Jinja Nishiromon Gate (Western Tower Gate)
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South Tower Gate
Landmarks nearby to Gion Corner
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Kahitsukan, Kyoto Modern Art Museum
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Warai Clock Tower
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SIGHTS KYOTO -サイツキョウト-
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MOst beautiful
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Yasaka Kōshin-dō Temple
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Hōkan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda)
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Hokan-ji Temple / Yasaka Pagode
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Statue of Izumo-no-Okuni
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Gion-Shirakawa spotlight
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Tatsumi Bridge
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Shirakawa Lane
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Tatsumi-jinja Shrine (Tatsumi Dai-myojin)
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Maruyama Park
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Shrine
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Kōdai-ji Temple