Geiko and Maiko Performance
An Evening of Traditional Japanese Arts at Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto
Immerse yourself in the refined world of Kyoto's geiko and maiko with an exclusive performance on our historic Noh stage. Adorned in exquisite kimonos and accompanied by live shamisen music, these accomplished artists present traditional dance forms passed down through generations. Set within our property's bamboo pavilion—a rare architectural treasure—this intimate cultural encounter offers guests a privileged glimpse into Japan's living artistic heritage.
Available on select Saturday evenings, each performance provides an authentic window into the artistry and grace that define Kyoto's celebrated culture.
The Experience
Step into a world where centuries-old tradition meets contemporary luxury. Our Geiko and Maiko Performance transforms our historic Noh stage into an intimate theater where Kyoto's most refined performing arts come to life.
The evening begins as geiko—accomplished master artists—and maiko—apprentice dancers in their distinctive flowing sleeves—take the stage. Their graceful movements, perfected through years of rigorous training, unfold to the evocative sounds of the shamisen, a three-stringed instrument central to traditional Japanese music. Each gesture carries meaning; each turn of the head reflects decades of artistic lineage.
The performance takes place on our property's authentic Noh stage, originally built for the classical Japanese theater form that has been designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The stage's distinctive architecture—with its polished cypress floor and painted pine backdrop—provides an atmospheric setting that enhances the intimacy and cultural significance of the experience.
Cultural Context
Kyoto's geiko and maiko represent one of Japan's most iconic and misunderstood artistic traditions. Far from mere entertainers, these women are highly trained practitioners of classical Japanese arts, dedicating years to mastering traditional dance, music, tea ceremony, and the sophisticated art of conversation. Their world, centered in Kyoto's historic hanamachi (flower districts), has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Witnessing a geiko and maiko performance offers insight into the aesthetic principles that define Japanese culture: the pursuit of perfection through disciplined practice, the beauty of subtle gesture, and the deep connection between art forms that creates a harmonious whole. The distinctive appearance of maiko—from their elaborate hairstyles adorned with seasonal ornaments to their trailing obi sashes—reflects a visual language rich with symbolism and seasonal awareness.
Performance Details
2026 Schedule
- January 10 (Saturday), January 24 (Saturday)
- February 14 (Saturday), February 28 (Saturday)
- March 14 (Saturday), March 28 (Saturday)
- April 11 (Saturday), April 25 (Saturday)
- May 9 (Saturday), May 23 (Saturday)
- June 13 (Saturday), June 20 (Saturday)
- July 4 (Saturday), July 18 (Saturday)
- August 8 (Saturday), August 22 (Saturday)
- September 12 (Saturday), September 26 (Saturday)
- October 10 (Saturday), October 24 (Saturday)
- November 21 (Saturday), November 28 (Saturday)
- December 12 (Saturday), December 19 (Saturday)
Duration:
From 7:00 pm
Approximately 45 minutes
Venue:
Bamboo Pavilion or Lobby at Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto
Attendance
This exclusive performance is available to hotel guests staying on the evening of the performance or guests dining at Ryozen on the same day.
