Autumn Dance Performances by Maiko and Geiko in 2025

Gion Odori is a traditional Japanese dance performance held annually from November 1 to 10 at Gion Kaikan.

It features original scripts that incorporate songs and dances performed by the geiko (regional name for geisha) and maiko of Gion Higashi. Among the Five Kagai (classical entertainment quarters) of Kyoto, it is the only main dance performance held in autumn, attracting many visitors from both Japan and abroad.

This year’s performance is titled:

“Suehirogari Ōgi no Sōshi” (The Tale of the Ever-Opening Fan)

The theme centers around the folding fan, an essential element of Japanese dance, showcasing its elaborate versatility through various scenes.

Gion Odori official webpage (Japanese only) 

Event dates: November 1st (Sat) – November 10th (Mon), 2025
Time slots: 1) 1:30 PM  – 2:30 PM / 2) 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM each day (doors open 40 minutes before)
Venue: Gion Kaikan Theater
Admission fee: Regular admission ticket – 6,000 yen
Special admission ticket with tea ceremony – 7,000 yen

Where to purchase tickets:

・On the official website
On sale now through October 26th (Tue).
*After payment, a voucher number will be sent instead of a physical ticket.

・Gion Kaikan Theater (at the ticket counter)
Sold from October 27th (Wed) 11:00 AM to November 10th (Mon), 4:00 PM.

Although Gion Odori is the only comprehensive geiko and maiko dance performance held in autumn, there are a number of other similar events held during this time. Gion Kobu and Kamishichiken Kagai hold “training review sessions” where they showcase the results of their daily training and receive evaluation from their teachers, seniors, and patrons. Those sessions have become an annual event open to the general public in recent years.

Additionally, the Miyagawa-cho Kagai will hold a special autumn performance this year to celebrate the grand re-opening of its theater.