The Gion district of Kyoto is well known for its members only bars, clubs and teahouses. But what isn’t commonly known about this exclusive area is that it is also home to some of the most luxurious, private geisha entertainment clubs in all of Japan. This is where the wealthy business men and women come to relax, socialize and entertain friends and clients of their own. And if you are lucky enough to be invited inside of one of these hidden treasures, it can be an experience of a lifetime.
Located just a nine minute walk from Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station, the Kiomai Theater is one of the most popular geisha and maiko dance venues in all of Kyoto. The theater offers reserved seat tickets in advance or at the ticket window on the day of the performance, and both credit cards and electronic forms of payment are accepted.
A reservation is highly recommended as the theater tends to sell out quickly, especially during the peak seasons of late April and early May. To reserve, please visit the website here.
While most of the shows offered at Kiomai Theater are in Japanese, there is an English language show called “Kyoto Gion Club” that is performed on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and on national holidays from December through the second week of March. This show is a great way for foreign visitors to see some of the traditional performing arts that Kyoto is famous for, without having to speak Japanese!
The performance begins with a short history lesson on the geisha and maiko and then moves on to dance. The performers use a wide range of dance styles and traditional instruments to entertain guests. The dances are accompanied by beautiful music, and it is a fantastic experience that is not to be missed.
In addition to the theatrical dance performances, there are several other events and festivals that take place at the Kiomai Theater throughout the year. In particular, during the spring, there is a festival that celebrates the blooming of the Yoshino cherry trees. This festival includes parades of floats, dancing, music and food. The Kiomai Theater is also a venue for special kabuki and nijushi no taiko performances.
Recently, the owners of Kyoto 京都 祇園 Club have been trying to discourage tourists from taking photos of geisha and maiko by putting up signs urging people to ask permission before snapping pictures. Mimiko Takayasu, the head of the local association, explains that this measure is being taken to preserve Gion’s unique atmosphere. However, the rule is not being strictly enforced and visitors are still welcome to photograph public streets such as Hanamikoji Street.
Saturday, August 12, 2023