The Art of the Geisha: Private Dinner in Kyoto

Spend an incredible evening dining in Kyoto at an exclusive private restaurant accompanied by a geisha. The highly skilled performer typically entertains guests at invitation-only locations. You’ll also walk through the Gion district of Kyoto to learn how Kyoto has been a center for the geisha’s traditional art for centuries. This dinner and walking tour is a rare occasion for you to see and learn about the traditions of the geisha, and your small group is limited to eight people.

You’ll meet your guide and begin your evening with a walking tour through Kyoto’s buzzing Gion district. Stroll past restaurants and teahouses, many of which have been exclusive establishments for geisha entertainment for centuries.

If you’re lucky, you might catch sight of a geisha as she heads to her first appointment of the evening. Geisha translates to “art person,” and traditional singing, dancing, musical instruments and other arts, including ikebana (flower arrangement) and the tea ceremony, are her specialties.

After the walk, your small group will meet one of the exquisitely dressed entertainers at a private restaurant. This special occasion includes a traditional multi-course kaiseki meal. The fresh, seasonal meal is yet another tantalizing example of Kyoto's cultural riches.

The kaiseki starts with an aperitif, followed by a selection of beautifully arranged appetizers. You’ll sample a variety of delicious dishes for your main course and finish with a light dessert.

During the meal, the geisha will chat and pour drinks. Your guide translates your questions to the geisha, enabling you to have a conversation with her. Gain a better sense of her profession and Japan's ancient culture throughout your meal. After dinner, turn your attention to the geisha’s performance featuring traditional dances and songs.

Take photos throughout the evening to remember this rare experience of dining with a geisha in Kyoto's Gion district.

• Dinner
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
  
• Professional English speaking guide/interpreter

• Food and drinks, unless specified
• Alcoholic beverages
  
• Gratuities (optional)