Kyoto's Spring Tradition: 152nd 'Miyako Odori' by Gion Kobu Geiko and Maiko Opens April 1st
The 152nd 'Miyako Odori' performance, featuring approximately 80 geiko and maiko from Gion Kobu, Kyoto's largest geisha district, opens today at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo theater.
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- 📰 Published: April 2, 2026 at 01:00
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Yasaka Nyokoba Gakuen and the Gion Kobu Kabukai (Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto) are presenting the 152nd performance of 'Miyako Odori,' titled 'Kanei Gyoko Miyako no Karei' (The Splendor of the Imperial Visit in the Kanei Era), from April 1st to April 30th, 2026. Prior to the opening, a full rehearsal (Daizarae) was held on March 31st.
### Refining the Art: 80 Geiko and Maiko Prepare for the Grand Opening
'Miyako Odori' is a renowned dance performance by approximately 80 geiko and maiko from Gion Kobu (with 53 performers per show). Founded in 1872 as an attraction for the 1st Kyoto Exhibition, it celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2024. While geiko and maiko are typically only seen in exclusive tea houses, 'Miyako Odori' is open to everyone, regardless of prior connections.
Performers begin intensive training for shamisen, singing, and percussion in January, followed by dance rehearsals starting in March. The 'Daizarae' held on March 31st served as the final touch under the guidance of the school's headmaster. This year's performance involves a wide range of talent, from veteran geiko to three new maiko making their stage debut.
Chairman Sugiura stated: 'This year, we are pleased to welcome three new maiko who debuted in February. At the tea ceremony, seven apprentices (shikomi) scheduled for debut in May will also make an appearance. We hope visitors enjoy the fresh atmosphere and the fragrance of plum blossoms portrayed in the second scene.'
Iemoto Yachiyo Inoue added: 'This year focuses more on the younger generation. We hope this performance inspires interest in historical sites like Nijo Castle, which is central to this year's theme.'
### Theme: Celebrating 400 Years of the Kanei Imperial Visit
The year 2026 marks the 400th anniversary of 'Kanei Gyoko,' a five-day grand entertainment event where the Tokugawa Shogunate welcomed Emperor Go-Mizunoo to Nijo Castle. This year's performance reflects on the brilliance of that era.
The program consists of eight scenes, including 'Tsukigase Plum Grove,' 'Go-Mizunoo Emperor Entertainment Picture Scroll,' and a spectacular finale at 'Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Blizzard.' The costumes feature newly made Kyo-Yuzen kimonos and Nishijin-ori belts with 'Tabane Noshi' auspicious patterns, symbolizing celebratory gifts.
### Event Overview
- **Event Name:** Miyako Odori
- **Period:** April 1 (Wed) – April 30 (Thu), 2026
- **Showtimes:** 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 (3 times daily)
- **Venue:** Gion Kobu Kaburenjo (570-2 Gion-machi Minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto)
- **Tickets:**
- First-class with tea ceremony: 7,000 JPY
- First-class: 6,000 JPY
- Second-class: 4,000 JPY
- Student (Second-class): 2,000 JPY
- **Official Website:** https://miyako-odori.jp/miyako/
### Refining the Art: 80 Geiko and Maiko Prepare for the Grand Opening
'Miyako Odori' is a renowned dance performance by approximately 80 geiko and maiko from Gion Kobu (with 53 performers per show). Founded in 1872 as an attraction for the 1st Kyoto Exhibition, it celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2024. While geiko and maiko are typically only seen in exclusive tea houses, 'Miyako Odori' is open to everyone, regardless of prior connections.
Performers begin intensive training for shamisen, singing, and percussion in January, followed by dance rehearsals starting in March. The 'Daizarae' held on March 31st served as the final touch under the guidance of the school's headmaster. This year's performance involves a wide range of talent, from veteran geiko to three new maiko making their stage debut.
Chairman Sugiura stated: 'This year, we are pleased to welcome three new maiko who debuted in February. At the tea ceremony, seven apprentices (shikomi) scheduled for debut in May will also make an appearance. We hope visitors enjoy the fresh atmosphere and the fragrance of plum blossoms portrayed in the second scene.'
Iemoto Yachiyo Inoue added: 'This year focuses more on the younger generation. We hope this performance inspires interest in historical sites like Nijo Castle, which is central to this year's theme.'
### Theme: Celebrating 400 Years of the Kanei Imperial Visit
The year 2026 marks the 400th anniversary of 'Kanei Gyoko,' a five-day grand entertainment event where the Tokugawa Shogunate welcomed Emperor Go-Mizunoo to Nijo Castle. This year's performance reflects on the brilliance of that era.
The program consists of eight scenes, including 'Tsukigase Plum Grove,' 'Go-Mizunoo Emperor Entertainment Picture Scroll,' and a spectacular finale at 'Nijo Castle Cherry Blossom Blizzard.' The costumes feature newly made Kyo-Yuzen kimonos and Nishijin-ori belts with 'Tabane Noshi' auspicious patterns, symbolizing celebratory gifts.
### Event Overview
- **Event Name:** Miyako Odori
- **Period:** April 1 (Wed) – April 30 (Thu), 2026
- **Showtimes:** 12:30, 14:30, 16:30 (3 times daily)
- **Venue:** Gion Kobu Kaburenjo (570-2 Gion-machi Minamigawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto)
- **Tickets:**
- First-class with tea ceremony: 7,000 JPY
- First-class: 6,000 JPY
- Second-class: 4,000 JPY
- Student (Second-class): 2,000 JPY
- **Official Website:** https://miyako-odori.jp/miyako/
FAQ
Can anyone watch 'Miyako Odori'?
Yes, anyone can purchase a ticket and enjoy the performance, even if they have no connection to the exclusive tea houses.
What is the theme for this year?
The theme is 'Kanei Gyoko Miyako no Karei,' celebrating the 400th anniversary of the Imperial visit to Nijo Castle.
How can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available for purchase on the official website: https://miyako-odori.jp/miyako/