Today, we were invited by a trusted friend to the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater to watch a rare performance of the “Onshukai.” Kobu refers to the entertainment district that flourished as Chayamachi in front of Yasaka Shrine. “Onshu” means review, and this is an event where geisha and maiko from Gion Kobu show off the results of their training, and this year it is being held from October 2nd to 7th.

With an exceptionally beautiful theater and gardens, the Kaburenjo was built in 1872 during the Meiji period. Photography is prohibited during the performances, six of which were being held at this event. Ranging from group performances between geisha and maiko, to a featured seductive solo dance in which a woman with a grudge is portrayed disguising herself as a heron.

Afterwards, we enjoyed some excellent Kyoto cuisine at the nearby restaurant “Okada”.

Geisha Yuriha guided us around her tea house and we had the opportunity to experience firsthand this culture that has continued for over 200 years.

After the amazing experience at the tea house, we were taken to a local high class bar. There are so many bars in Japan, but the bars in Gion have the kind of dignified and luxurious atmosphere unmatched by anything we’ve experienced, even in Tokyo city. The bar tenders have an impeccable eye for detail and treat their customers to an unforgettable customer service experience.

It was a day spent experiencing the glamorous and profound history of the hanamachi district in Kyoto.