Background

Gion Corner: A Showcase of Kyoto's Traditional Arts

Experience Kyoto's traditional performing arts in one hour at Gion Corner, featuring maiko dances, tea ceremonies, and more!

4.2

Located in the heart of Kyoto's Gion district, Gion Corner offers a condensed introduction to seven traditional Japanese performing arts, including tea ceremonies, Kyomai dance performed by apprentice geishas (maiko), and Bunraku puppet theater. It's a popular spot for tourists seeking an efficient and engaging cultural experience.

A brief summary to Gion Corner

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure good seats, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Check the performance schedule in advance to see which arts will be featured.
  • Explore the surrounding Gion district after the show to experience the atmosphere of old Kyoto.
  • Tickets can be purchased online or at the theater box office.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kyoto Station, take Kyoto City Bus 100 or 206 to the Gion bus stop. The ride takes approximately 20 minutes and costs ¥230. From the Gion bus stop, Gion Corner is a short walk away. Alternatively, take the JR Nara Line from Kyoto Station to Tofukuji Station, then transfer to the Keihan Line and get off at Gion-Shijo Station. The combined fare is around ¥290. From Gion-Shijo Station, it is about a 5-minute walk to Gion Corner.

  • Taxi

    From Kyoto Station, a taxi to Gion Corner takes approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare is approximately ¥1,200 - ¥2,500. Taxis are readily available at the taxi ramp in front of Kyoto Station's north exit.

  • Walking

    From HOTEL TAVINOS Kyoto, Gion Corner is a 20-minute walk along the Kamogawa River. From Kyoto Station, the walk to Gion Corner is approximately 3.2km and takes around 40 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Gion Corner

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Gion Corner

Gion Corner is a cultural venue in Kyoto's Gion district where visitors can experience a variety of traditional Japanese performing arts in one show. Aimed primarily at tourists, the hour-long performance provides an overview of seven distinct arts: Kyomai dance, Chanoyu (tea ceremony), Ikebana (flower arrangement), Koto music, Gagaku (court music), Kyogen comedy, and, depending on the season, either Bunraku puppet theater or Noh play. The Kyomai dance is performed by maiko, apprentice geishas, in beautiful kimonos, telling stories through graceful and synchronized movements. The tea ceremony demonstrates the art of preparing and serving tea to guests. Ikebana showcases the Japanese art of flower arranging, emphasizing simplicity and space. Koto music features a traditional 13-stringed instrument. Bugaku dance is one of the world's oldest musical forms. Kyogen is a classical comic drama. Bunraku puppet theater involves a collaboration of puppeteers, storytellers, and shamisen players. Located in Yasaka Hall, next to the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre, Gion Corner provides an accessible introduction to Japanese culture. In the lobby, the Maiko Gallery displays photos of annual events in Kyoto's geisha districts and maiko ornaments. Gion Corner is wheelchair accessible and has accessible toilets.

Popular Experiences near Gion Corner

Popular Hotels near Gion Corner

Select Currency