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Undeterred by the onslaught of modernity and unlike other modern Japanese cities like Tokyo and others who have fallen victim to ultra-modernity, Kyoto still maintains the rich cultural heritage of Japan. This erstwhile capital city of Japan however did not shrug off modernity and Kyoto’s life is a perfect blend between these two seemingly opposite trends. Though the cultural relics are distributed throughout Kyoto, they are arguably most well preserved in the Gion corner, Kyoto. Since 1962, Gion corner in Kyoto has been the most frequented place for the tourists. The tourists go there mainly at night to experience something that can be experienced only at night. Sleepy during the day, the night sees this corner of Kyoto bustling with life. This part of the Kyoto city provides the tourists with 7 kinds of Japanese traditional arts and entertainment options, such as: Kyoto style Dance, Flower Arrangement, Tea Ceremony, Japanese Harp, Comic Play, Court Music and Puppet Play. All these art forms are renowned all over the world. Japanese art of flower arrangement, most popularly known as Ikebana is unique to Gion corner in Kyoto. Tea ceremony, on the other hand, is a very important part of the Japanese culture. In fact tea ceremony is no less an art form and Japanese seem to have mastered this form. Other forms are no less important. This otherwise quiet corner of this city, at night really journeys back to the bygone days. Tourists flock to Gion corner in Kyoto to experience the Geisha dance first hand. Geisha are female Japanese entertainers who are very skilled in music, dancing and communication. Foreigners often equate them with very expensive prostitutes, but they are not so. Actually, geisha are professional hostesses adept in the profession of entertainment. They live in traditional geisha houses known as hanamachi (flower towns). However, do not be surprised if you are not allowed to enter a geisha house. Generally foreigners need formal introduction by a Japanese person of high repute to be caressed by the geisha. Besides, it is exorbitantly expensive. You can experience all these important aspects of Japanese culture at Gion Kaburenjo Theater, located at Gion corner. The performance starts from 7 in the evening and continues till 10 at night. Only 2 performances however take place and generally the tickets are sold out well in advance. The entrance fee is approximately 2800 Yen and the ticket can be purchased by cash only.
Quick facts:
Address of Gion Corner: Yasaka Hall, Hanamikoji Street, Kyoto-605-0074, Japan.
Telephone: +81 (0) 75 561-1119
Fax: +81 (0) 75 561-3860
Nearest Station: Shijo/ Keihan line
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