Echoes of Tradition: A Guided Journey Through the Geiko Districts

Kanazawa is renowned for its beautifully preserved Geiko districts, particularly Higashi and Kazue-machi, where tradition comes alive through narrow streets, historic architecture, and teahouses. In these districts, Geiko entertains guests with performances of traditional music, dance, and conversation, offering a glimpse into a rich cultural heritage. I’m Amanda Anribali from Indonesia. During my two years in Kanazawa, I visited the Higashi Chaya District several times. However, it was not until I joined the “Geiko Districts Walking Tour” that I truly began to appreciate the depth of this cultural treasure.

Echoes of Tradition: A Guided Journey Through the Geiko Districts

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Kanazawa is renowned for its beautifully preserved Geiko districts, particularly Higashi and Kazue-machi, where tradition comes alive through narrow streets, historic architecture, and teahouses. In these districts, Geiko entertains guests with performances of traditional music, dance, and conversation, offering a glimpse into a rich cultural heritage. I’m Amanda Anribali from Indonesia. During my two years in Kanazawa, I visited the Higashi Chaya District several times. However, it was not until I joined the “Geiko Districts Walking Tour” that I truly began to appreciate the depth of this cultural treasure.

Walking with a local guide, sharing teahouse architectural details and anecdotes

Ms. Hiromi, my guide, started our tour at Kanazawa Asanogawa Enyukai Hall, where detailed models of the traditional townscape set the stage for what we were about to explore. 
As we walked through the bustling streets of the Higashi Chaya District, Ms. Hiromi’s insights came through earphones, making it easy to follow along, despite the crowds. Her explanations revealed that each door, window, and even stone in the district is unique and serves a purpose, 
leading me to see the area as much more than just a photo spot. It was also fascinating to hear stories about Japan and Kanazawa’s unique aspects while exploringbackstreets that I might have missed on my own.
 
 

An interactive way to fully immerse yourself in the city’s history

We then moved on to Kazue-machi, a tranquil and lesser-known district that felt like stepping back in time. Unlike the more crowded Higashi Chaya District, Kazue-machi offers its own charm through its serene ambiance. With Ms. Hiromi’s extensive knowledge and warm personality, the tour felt like a leisurely stroll with a friend. Her insightful answers to all my questions greatly enriched my understanding of the area. 
So, while you are in Kanazawa, why not make your visit to these historic districts even more special? Join the “Geiko Districts Walking Tour” and see these enchanting areas through the eyes of a local expert. Trust me, you will leave with lasting memories and a deeper connection to Kanazawa’s cultural heritage.
 

 
 

PROFILE
Amanda Anribali is a second-year Applied Bioscience student from Indonesia who has been living in Japan for two years. For her, exploring new things is always an amazing journey, especially when it comes to different cultures.

PROFILE

Amanda Anribali is a second-year Applied Bioscience student from Indonesia who has been living in Japan for two years. For her, exploring new things is always an amazing journey, especially when it comes to different cultures.

ART OF GEISHA

In Kanazawa and Kyoto, GEISHA are referred to as GEIKO.

In autumn 2024, ART of GEISHA offers a variety of cultural events four days a week, from 1st October to 16th November. Join these events to make the most of your trip to Kanazawa by learning about and experiencing the traditions rooted in the city.

https://www.artofgeisha.com

1

 
MEET the GEIKO
in Kanazawa

Enjoy a dreamlike early evening of dancing and taiko drumming performances by Geiko, along with fun interactions through traditional party games and a Q&A session. This event takes place at Kanazawa Asanogawa Enyukai Hall, located near the Asanogawa Bridge.

Time: 16:30 - 17:20 / Duration: 50 minutes
Venue: Kanazawa Asanogawa Enyukai Hall
Capacity: 32 people (all seats are pre-assigned)
Prices: JPY 12,000 / 11,000 / 10,000 per person

2

 
GEIKO and OCHAYA TOUR

 
A rare opportunity to tour a real, active ochaya (teahouse) that hosts ozashiki Geiko parties at night. Guided by two Geiko, you’ll learn how the ochaya operates, explore the Geiko’s kimonos and belongings, enjoy performances, and even take part in a taiko drumming experience.

Time: 13:30 - 15:00 / Duration: 90 minutes
Venue: Ochaya Mi-ne「美音」 (Nishi Chaya District)
Capacity: 12 guests
Price: JPY 14,000 per person

3

 
GEIKO Districts Walking Tour

 
A geisha teahouse tour led by two geishas in the Nishi Chaya District. Explore the inside of teahouse Mi-Ne, learn about the geisha culture, and appreciate their hospitality, including dances, taiko drums, and fun games.

Dates: March  20, 27 | April  3, 4, 17
Time: 13:30 - 15:00
Duration: 90 minutes
Venue: Teahouse Mi-Ne (Nishi Chaya District)
Capacity: 12 people 
Price: JPY 14,000 per person

4

 
Tea Ceremony and TOCHA
Traditional Matcha Tasting Game

Watch a graceful tea ceremony in a tea master’s private tearoom and play a traditional matcha tasting game called “tocha” with three varieties of matcha. Discover an interesting way to appreciate the aromas and tastes of the Japanese tea.

Time: 13:30 - 15:00 / Duration: 90 minutes
Venue: Tea Base Hakutaku (Near Nishi Chaya District)
Capacity: 7 guests
Price: JPY 9,900 per person