Written by Aarohi
Kanazawa geisha are regarded as some of the finest in Japan. Find out why at the annual Kanazawa Odori.
What happens?
Kanazawa is home to three geisha districts: Higashi (east), Nishi (west), and Kazuemachi. Today, there are only around 40 performers in total.
Kanazawa Odori is the annual autumn spectacular where geisha from all three districts perform together in a grand setting.
Pro tip: For something slightly less formal, consider the Kanazawa Geigi no Mai, a one-hour showcase featuring classical dance, music, and geisha games (sometimes played with the audience). Tickets cost ¥1,500 per person (¥1,200 for groups of 15+). Backstage tours available after select performances cost an additional ¥500. Find more information here (in Japanese).
Schedule 2026
This year’s Kanazawa Odori will be held on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026.
Tickets 2026
Tickets went on sale July 16, and can be purchased online here.
Tickets range in price from ¥7,700 to ¥9,900.
How to get there
From Tokyo, first take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station (about 2 hours 30 minutes). The venue, the Ishikawa Ongakudō Hōgaku Hall, is a 3-minute walk from the station.
Want more? The Kanazawa Odori is one of five events in our guide to geisha performances beyond Kyoto.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
