Spring is the best time to visit Kyoto. It is a season when the weather is pleasant and there are plenty of activities to participate in. This is the time for events and festivals. Kyoto is renowned for its eclectic culture; it is one of the rare cities that boast of a vibrant cultural scenario bustling with activity. The festivals and events of the city reinstate the traditional and cultural values of the region and at the same time maintain the integrity of the city. One of the major and popular events of the city of Kyoto is the Kyoto Spring Geiko Dances. This event is held in the month of April.
During the month of April, Kyoto's geiko quarters stage grand and enthralling song and dance performances. The geiko dancers wear gorgeous costumes characterized by rich embellishments. The sets of the geiko dances are opulent and lavish and the overall dance performance with the spectacular costumes and the sets mesmerize the audience. This particular dance form is indicative of the traditional style, grace and elegance that is associated with the city of Kyoto. In the some of the geiko quarters you can avail tickets that will enable you to have a bowl of ceremonial tea, which is served before the dance performance. Some of the geiko dances that you can see during this period are Miyako Odori, Kyo Odori, Kitano Odori and Kamogawa Odori. Miyako Odori is performed by the geiko of the Gion district and you can see this form of geiko dance at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater. Kyo Odori is the geiko dance of Miyagawa-cho and these dance shows are held at the Miyagawa-cho Kaburenjo Theater. Kitano Odori is performed by the geiko of Kamishichiken, which is staged at the Kamishichiken Kaburenjo Theater. Kamogawa Odori is another form of geiko dance that is performed by the geiko of Pontocho at the Pontocho Kaburenjo Theater. A visit to these theaters and your experience of these dance performances will enlighten you about the rich cultural heritage of the region. Infact this is one of the novel ways of exploring the culture and tradition of Kyoto.
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