Experience the culture of Gion, a hanamachi.
As night falls, the OMO Base transforms into a ozashiki-style space, featuring eye-catching large lantern decorations. Guests can enjoy the Gion night with all five senses, savoring wagashi (Japanese sweets) and matcha inspired by Maiko (apprentice geisha), and even experiencing ozashiki asobi (geisha parlor games) which are rarely accessible elsewhere.
Key Features of the "Gion, Kyoto Maiko Experience"
1. A space reminiscent of a hanamachi ozashiki
The OMO Base is decorated to evoke the glamour of a hanamach, using lanterns from Kojima Shoten, a long-established shop founded in the Edo period, and a floor completely covered in tatami mats, creating the ambiance of a night ozashiki (parlor). Authentic kanzashi (hairpins) and Kyomai sensu (Kyoto dance fans) used by Maiko (apprentice geisha) are also on display. By learning about the master craftsmanship and the daily lives of the Geimaiko behind the glamorous stage, their world feels much closer.
2. Savoring authentic Wagashi and Matcha
Guests can choose from a selection of wagashi (Japanese sweets) from Kagizen Yoshifusa, a shop with 300 years of history in Kyoto, including bite-sized sweets easy for a Maiko's ("small, charming mouth") and seasonal yokan (sweet bean jelly). The flavor is further enhanced by Matcha from Gion Tsujiri, freshly prepared by an OMO Ranger right in front of you.
3. Enjoying Ozashiki Asobi
After a relaxing cup of matcha, you can try out ozashiki asobi (geisha parlor games) such as Tosenkyo (fan-tossing) and Konpira Funefune. An OMO Ranger will introduce these games, which you rarely have the chance to experience, making them easy for anyone to enjoy. Please spend your evening exactly as you wish.
| Period | August 25, 2025 – Year-round |
|---|---|
| Time | 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Appropriate age | No age restriction |
| Contents | Matcha, Wagashi |
| Prices | Free |
| Meeting spot | 1F OMO Base |
| Hosted in | Japanese , English |
OMO5 Kyoto Gion
Experience Gion beyond the elegant tea salons, stylish eateries, centuries-old shops, and all the lively nightlife on its atmospheric streets. Steps away from Yasaka Shrine, rise early and enjoy the neighborhood as residents do. With a kitchenette in every room it’s easy to make Gion your home away from home for a while.
"Local Rhythm Night" is a special evening event where you can experience the local culture without leaving the hotel. Now happening at OMO hotels across Japan. Learn more here.