A maiko dance in a Kyoto temple

About this experience

A maiko is an apprentice geisha, recognised by her colourful kimono, white make-up and elaborate hair. This show brings one to Kōun-ji, a Zen temple from the 13th century near Nanzen-ji in eastern Kyoto, ordinarily closed to visitors. The group is capped at 12, an English-speaking guide interprets throughout, and the whole programme takes 90 minutes. It is not kabuki, but it sits well beside it in Kyoto, home of the Minamiza theatre and its December Kaomise.

On the programme, per the listing: an introduction to the temple, two maiko dances, a break with commentary from the guide, a zashiki parlour game played one on one with the maiko, questions and answers, photo time, and a look at the temple, its altar and garden as time allows. Included: the show ticket, entry to Kōun-ji and its garden, and photos with the maiko, which the guide can take on your phone.

Shoes come off inside the temple, so bring socks. Large luggage and bags are not allowed, per the listing, and videos are off limits even though photos are welcome.

• Two dances by a maiko in a 13th-century Zen temple
• A zashiki parlour game, one on one with the maiko
• Questions and answers with an English-speaking guide
• Photo time with the maiko
• A small group of 12 guests at most
• The temple hall and garden, usually closed to the public

How the day runs

1. 15 minutes beforeThe temple gate

   A sign marks the meeting point at the gate of Kōun-ji, and the guide waits from about 15 minutes before the start.

2. StartWelcome to Kōun-ji

   An introduction to the temple and to the world of the maiko.

3. First halfTwo dances

   The maiko performs two traditional dances, with a break and commentary from the guide in between.

4. Second halfGame and questions

   A zashiki parlour game with the maiko, then time to ask her anything through the guide.

5. To finishPhotos and the garden

   Photo time with the maiko, then the temple, its altar and the garden as time allows.

What's included

Who it suits

Tips before you book

• Pack socks: you take your shoes off before entering the temple.
• Do not touch the maiko, her kimono or her hair, even during photo time, per the listing.
• Posting your photos to personal social media is fine, per the listing.
• Heading to Kyoto in December? Minamiza's Kaomise runs 1 to 24 December 2026; our Minamiza Kaomise 2026 post has the dates and prices.

Read next:

• Kabuki history

Frequently asked questions

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