Written by Lily Crossley-Baxter
Researched by Aarohi Narain
The annual Kyo Odori is a spring performance by the geiko (the Kyoto word for geisha) and maiko (apprentice geiko) of Kyoto’s Miyagawachō district.
What happens?
The show includes an original dance (a new one each year), a shamisen performance, and the finale, the Miyagawa Ondo, when all the dancers appear together in beautiful spring kimono.
Pro tip: To learn more about geiko and maiko, as well as recommendations for additional events and experiences, check out our complete guide to seeing geisha in Kyoto.
Schedule 2026
The 75th Kyō Odori runs from April 4 to April 19, with performances daily except April 13. There are two shows each day: 1–2 p.m. and 4–5 p.m., each paired with a traditional tea ceremony before the performance.
Tickets 2026
Tickets are all reserved seating, priced at ¥7,000 for first-floor seats and ¥6,000 for second-floor seats, both including tea. Entry is limited to guests aged ten and over, and late entry is not permitted once the performance has begun.
Geisha performances in Kyoto
Every spring and fall, Kyoto’s hanamachi (geisha districts) put on public dance performances. In our opinion, this is the best way to see the city’s iconic performing artists for a (comparatively) reasonable price. And is much politer than trying to photograph them on the street paparazzi-style.
Other performances on the annual calendar include:
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.Add to Calendar
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Adults:
Advance sales: ¥5,500
- 433 m from Kiyomizu-Gojō Station Keihan Main Line (KH38)
- 463 m from Kawaramachi Station Hankyu Kyoto Main Line (HK86)
- 481 m from Gion-Shijō Station Keihan Main Line (KH39)
