Traditional Performing Arts
- Itinerary -
Guided Tour - Yomei Bunko Museum
Move to Yasaka Shrine
"Mikomai" - Shrine Maiden Dance
Move to Ichiriki-tei
Experiencing the Kyomai Dance
1:00PM
4:00PM
6:00PM
120min
40min
15-30min
15min
120min
Guided Tour of Yomei Bunko Museum
Follow in the footsteps of the genius of Edo, Iehiro Konoe. Iehiro was a literary figure active in the mid-Edo period (Late 17th century). He was a scholar and a master calligrapher, who also enjoyed the tea ceremony, the art of incense and flower arrangement. He was also a curator who discovered the artistic value of waka poems and paintings handed down in the Chikamori family from generation to generation and sublimated them into works of art.
"Mikomai - Shrine Maiden Dance"
- The sacred dance performed by miko (shrine maidens)
Mikomai, the sacred dance performed by miko (shrine maidens), serves as a vibrant, rhythmic offering to the deities at Kyoto’s renowned Yasaka Shrine. Performed with bells or fans, Mikomai is more than just a performance; it is a ritualised bridge between the human and divine realms. Through the dancers’ graceful movements, the influence of the Konoe family’s refined courtly culture continues to resonate within the shrine grounds. Today, experiencing Mikomai at Yasaka Shrine offers a rare glimpse into a living history, where the artistic patronage of the past still dances in the present.
Dinner at Ichiriki-tei and Kyomai performance
Ichiriki-tei (or Ichiriki-chaya) is one of Kyoto’s most famous and exclusive "Ochaya" (traditional tea house), located in the historic Gion district. With over 300 years of history, it is known for hosting "Geiko" (Performer) and "Maiko" (Apprentices) who entertain elite guests with traditional music, dance, and refined conversation. Ichiriki-tei has long been a gathering place for powerful samurai, politicians, and cultural figures, and is especially famous for its connection to the story of the 47 Ronin—where the leader Ōishi Kuranosuke is said to have stayed while plotting the group's legendary act of revenge. The tea house is highly exclusive, requiring an introduction for entry, and is considered a symbol of Kyoto's refined and discreet hospitality culture. As the teahouse is located in Gion district,the Inoue School geiko and maiko belong in this teahouse. In this event, there will be performances by the current geiko and maiko under the Inoue school.
