The 152nd 'Miyako Odori' Performance 'Kan'ei Gyoko Miyako Karei' Opens April 1st, Featuring 80 Geiko and Maiko of Gion Kobu
The 152nd 'Miyako Odori' will be held at Gion Kobu Kaburenjo in Kyoto from April 1st to 30th, 2026. Approximately 80 Geiko and Maiko will perform traditional dances in this iconic spring event.
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The Yasaka Nyokoba Gakuen and Gion Kobu Kabukai (Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto) will present the 152nd performance of 'Miyako Odori,' titled 'Kan'ei Gyoko Miyako Karei,' from April 1 to April 30, 2026, at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre. Prior to the opening, an 'Ozarae' (open rehearsal) was held at the theatre on March 31.
### 'Miyako Odori' Created by a Total of 80 Geiko and Maiko
'Miyako Odori' is a dance performance featuring approximately 80 Geiko and Maiko from Gion Kobu, Kyoto's largest 'hanamachi' (entertainment district). In the 2026 performance, 53 members will appear in each show. Founded in 1872 as an attraction for the 1st Kyoto Exhibition, the event marked its 150th anniversary in 2024. While Geiko and Maiko are usually only met in exclusive tea houses, anyone can enjoy 'Miyako Odori,' even those without prior connections.
### Final Rehearsal: 'Ozarae'
Performers begin training in shamisen, singing, and musical instruments like drums and flutes in January each year. Choreography is carefully considered, and dance practice begins in early March, followed by stage rehearsals in late March. The 'Ozarae' held on March 31, also known as 'Shurai,' is the final rehearsal before the actual performance, conducted with invited guests and associates in the audience. From Maiko making their debut to veteran Geiko, the troupe synchronized their performance of 'Kan'ei Gyoko Miyako Karei' through this final check before the grand opening today.
Prior to the event, Chairman Sugiura of Yasaka Nyokoba Gakuen and Master Yachiyo Inoue V, the 5th generation head of the Inoue School of Kyomai, shared their thoughts.
Chairman Sugiura: 'We are delighted that three Maiko who debuted in February will have their first stage performance. Also, seven "Shikomi-san" (trainees) scheduled to debut in May will be introduced at the tea ceremony. For the second scene, which traditionally features plum blossom shrines and temples in the year's lucky direction, we chose the Tsukigase Plum Grove. We hope you enjoy the freshness of the valley and the scent of the plum blossoms.'
Master Yachiyo Inoue: 'This year may be one where the focus is more on the younger generation than the veterans. While "Kan'ei Gyoko" may be unfamiliar to many, I hope Miyako Odori will spark interest in related locations such as Nijo Castle.'
### 'Miyako Odori' Created by a Total of 80 Geiko and Maiko
'Miyako Odori' is a dance performance featuring approximately 80 Geiko and Maiko from Gion Kobu, Kyoto's largest 'hanamachi' (entertainment district). In the 2026 performance, 53 members will appear in each show. Founded in 1872 as an attraction for the 1st Kyoto Exhibition, the event marked its 150th anniversary in 2024. While Geiko and Maiko are usually only met in exclusive tea houses, anyone can enjoy 'Miyako Odori,' even those without prior connections.
### Final Rehearsal: 'Ozarae'
Performers begin training in shamisen, singing, and musical instruments like drums and flutes in January each year. Choreography is carefully considered, and dance practice begins in early March, followed by stage rehearsals in late March. The 'Ozarae' held on March 31, also known as 'Shurai,' is the final rehearsal before the actual performance, conducted with invited guests and associates in the audience. From Maiko making their debut to veteran Geiko, the troupe synchronized their performance of 'Kan'ei Gyoko Miyako Karei' through this final check before the grand opening today.
Prior to the event, Chairman Sugiura of Yasaka Nyokoba Gakuen and Master Yachiyo Inoue V, the 5th generation head of the Inoue School of Kyomai, shared their thoughts.
Chairman Sugiura: 'We are delighted that three Maiko who debuted in February will have their first stage performance. Also, seven "Shikomi-san" (trainees) scheduled to debut in May will be introduced at the tea ceremony. For the second scene, which traditionally features plum blossom shrines and temples in the year's lucky direction, we chose the Tsukigase Plum Grove. We hope you enjoy the freshness of the valley and the scent of the plum blossoms.'
Master Yachiyo Inoue: 'This year may be one where the focus is more on the younger generation than the veterans. While "Kan'ei Gyoko" may be unfamiliar to many, I hope Miyako Odori will spark interest in related locations such as Nijo Castle.'