[Katsufumi] The gorgeous Hanayagi-dance of Maiko in Kamishichiken starts with an elegant pose

[Kitano Tenmangu] The shrine grounds are stunning in every season

[Katsufumi] Change into the authentic maiko clothes and commemorate with a photo

[Soushi tsuzure-en] The patterns appear little by little as they are carefully woven

[Tondaya] The elegant tea ceremony is a sight to behold, and so are the utensils

[Kitano Tenmangu] Discover the symbol of the shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane

[Kitano Tenmangu] Meet in front of the First Torii Gate, from where the Hanamachi culture was born

[Kitano Tenmangu] As you pass under the gate, a day of elegance and culture begins

[Kitano Tenmangu] Purify your body and soul with the beautiful flower water

[Kitano Tenmangu] A knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the secrets of Sankomon

[Kitano Tenmangu] Greet the local deity and pray for good luck for the day ahead

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] Sneak into the weaving studio tucked away in the back alley of Kamishichiken

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] Traditional craftsmen and tsuzure-ori artisans welcome you personally

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] The many tools displayed on the shelves show that this is a genuine workshop

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] The craftsman introduces the art of tsuzure-ori with a video he made himself

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] Start with color matching, combine two colors to create more delicate tones

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] Beautiful painting-like works decorate the store

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] The sawtooth fingernails are a sign of the craftsman's spirit

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] Cute accessories made by hand

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] Only here you can choose from about 300 colors of silk thread

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] Select your favorite color

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] Try the most difficult weaving technique under the guidance of a true craftsman

[Soushi Tsuzure-en] Your one-of-a-kind work of art to commemorate your trip

[Traditional restaurant] Visit a long-established restaurant that serves tea houses in Kamishichiken

[Traditional restaurant] Enjoy the authentic taste of meals served at tea houses

[Traditional restaurant] Casually enojoy the authentic taste enjoyed at maiko dinner parties

[Traditional restaurant] Seasonal dishes are as stunning as they are exquisite

[Traditional restaurant] Enjoy both the meal and the fascinating stories by your guide

[Traditional restaurant] Experience the cuisine that keeps supporting the Hanamachi culture even today

[Traditional restaurant] The elegant inner garden seen from the private room adds a special touch

[Traditional restaurant] Delicious meals and stimulating conversation make you excited for what’s next

[Katsufumi] Meet a real maiko at Katsufumi, run by a former geiko

[Katsufumi] The more you look at the "Darari no obi", the more beautiful it is

[Katsufumi] The black montsuki can only be seen on special occasions

[Katsufumi] The proprietress is very kind and happy to answer your questions

[Katsufumi] Only on this tour are you able to touch the precious costume accessories

[Katsufumi] You can choose your favorite hairpin from a selection that changes monthly

[Katsufumi] All costumes are authentic costumes used by maiko

[Katsufumi] If you learn how to use a fan with a maiko costume, you will feel like a real maiko

[Katsufumi] The costume, the wig, a real maiko - excitement galore (*Maiko makeup is not performed.)

[Tondaya] See the insides of a machiya built over 120 Years Ago

[Tondaya] Take a tour of the machiya, with detailed explanations about its history

[Tondaya] Say hello to the guardian deity of Tondaya in the "treasury”

[Tondaya] The luxuriously decorated table tells the story of the long and prosperous history of Tondaya

[Tondaya] When entering Rakuju, everyone must kneel down regardless of their status, symbolizing equality and peace

[Tondaya] Concentrating only on making matcha is a blissful time of rest and relaxation

[Tondaya] You will also learn the etiquette of serving and drinking matcha

[Tondaya] Enjoy delicious sweets and matcha green tea

[Tondaya] Say goodbye to your guide in front of the historic townhouse