Dressing like a geisha for a day is a fantasy shared by both Japanese and foreign ladies and MAICA, in the Miyagawa Geisha district, is one of the best places to do it.
MAICA is one several places in Kyoto where they’ll dress you up and make you up as a geiko (fully-fledged geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha) for a fee. MAICA has been in business for years and is comfortable with foreign guests and enough English is spoken to get the main points across.
They offer various packages, including some where they’ll take you around to several famous Gion sightseeing spots and have a professional photographer take a few commemorative shops. Be prepared to be stared at like never before in your life.
Alternatively, you can also book the maiko transformation in advance through GetYourGuide – there are several different companies offering the service to choose between.
See also our detailed review of dressing up in a kimono and having a professional photographer take photos on Kyoto’s streets – this walks you through the whole process so you know what to expect.
Tourists make-up like a Maiko: FCG / Shutterstock.com
Name in English:
Special dress up Geisha & Maiko Style Experience MAICA
Name in Japanese:
変身処 舞香
English address:
4-297 Miyagawasuji, Higashiyama-ku
Japanese address:
東山区宮川筋4丁目297
Opening hours:
9am-7pm
Fee: from Y6500 for “geisha conversion”
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
3min walk from Gion Shijo Station Exit 1, Keihan line
Telephone: 551-1661
Where Is This Place Located?
See these places on our Kyoto Google map:- Open the Kyoto map
- You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
- Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
- Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
- If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.
Near To Here:
Maiko Style Experience MAICA is located in Kyoto’s Southern Higashiyama district. See our complete list of things to do in Southern Higashiyama, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
Kyoto Walking Tour: Gion Evening Walk
Discover the world of the geisha in this atmospheric evening walk in Gion, the “Floating World” of Kyoto.(Two hours duration. Price: ¥35,000)
More Details About The Tour
Kyoto Vacation Checklist
- For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
- Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
- You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto, Kyoto to Osaka and Kyoto to Tokyo
- Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
- See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
- You can buy an eSim to activate in Japan or buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Tokyo's Narita or Haneda Airports or Kansai International Airport. You can also rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
- Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
- If you're making frequent train journeys during your visit, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
- World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world
- Do you want help planning your trip? Chris Rowthorn and his team of Japan experts at Japan Travel Consulting can help
