Maiko and geisha dressed in traditional Japanese clothing and hairpins are a part of the Kyoto atmosphere. But what is the geisha district where they work like? It is believed that the district originated as mizuchaya, teahouses that offered tea and dumplings in front of temples and shrines in Kyoto, home to many such temples and shrines as Yasaka Shrine and Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. Eventually, there was a battle for customers, and women began to perform songs, dances, and other arts. These teahouses continued to exist to this day, and by coming together they thrived and formed the geisha districts. Today, Kyoto is home to five geisha districts known as gokagai.
Gion Kobu
Gion East
Gion, a symbol of Kyoto, is located on the east side of the Kamo River, north and south of Shijo Street. It is said to have originated from the Omizu-chaya teahouse in front of Yasaka Shrine, and many teahouses line the area to this day. As young people in Kyoto say, "I'd like to have a drink on the east side of the Kamo River (= Gion) someday!", Gion is one of Japan's leading entertainment districts, lined with high-class restaurants and bars in addition to teahouses.
Miyagawacho
Miyagawacho, known for the "Kyoto Dance," is located south of present-day Shijogawara. Developed with the completion of the Kamo River's stonework, it is a red-light district lined with teahouses dedicated to geisha, along with the geisha of Shijogawara, where performing arts were originally thriving.
Kamishichiken
A geisha district thriving near Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. It originated from Shichiken-chaya, a water teahouse in front of the shrine. During the Kitano Grand Tea Ceremony held by Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1587, he took a break at Shichiken-chaya, and was so pleased with the service that it is said to have grown into the geisha district that thrives to this day.
Pontocho
This entertainment district flourished along the Takase River, which carried water transportation between Kyoto and Fushimi. It is believed to have developed from teahouses catering to boatmen and passengers traveling up and down the Takase River. The unique name "Pontocho" is said to be derived from the Portuguese word for "point" (ponto). The riverside dining areas lining the Kamo River are one of Kyoto's most iconic sights.
Many teahouses in the entertainment districts of the red-light district do not allow first-time visitors to enjoy the ozashiki asobi, so the only way to enjoy it is to be introduced by someone.
So why not enjoy a stroll through the charming streets? Fortunately, the four geisha districts, with the exception of Kamishichiken, are large enough to be explored on foot, and Kamishichiken is located right across from Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, a famous tourist destination. In addition to teahouses, these areas are also home to many stylish bars and souvenir shops. Be sure to experience the history and present of Kyoto.