Kyoto Private boat cruise with traditional music& Geisha culture
Guided by a former maiko, this private boat cruise offers a rare glimpse into kyoto's elegant Geisha culture. Float along the scenic Katsura River and Oi River in Arashiyama, enjoy a live shamisen performance, and experience traditional Japanese party games in an intimate, authentic setting. A uniquely immersive cultural journey that blends nature, music, and heritage.
Please note: This boat experience uses a traditional Japanese navigation method, steering with a single bamboo pole as done over 1,200 years ago.
Because of this, the cruise may be canceled even on sunny days if the river conditions are not safe, or if the wind is too strong, as the pole may break and safety cannot be guaranteed.
As this is an outdoor activity deeply connected to nature, we kindly ask for your understanding in case of last-minute cancellations by the boat operator.
In such cases, you will receive a full refund.
NOTE2: If any participants are under the age of 12, please inform us in advance.
Options
Review Campaing Price
Review Campaing Plan (Limited): Discounted rate for guests who agree to leave a review. Limited to first 15 bookings. Minimum booking: 2 people.
What's included in Kyoto Private boat cruise with traditional music& Geisha culture
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Meet your guide at the Arashiyama Tsusen South Boarding Area near Togetsukyo Bridge. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the start time. The guide will assist you in boarding the private yakatabune ( traditional boat) boat.
Oi River
Cruise upstream while your guide shares stories about Geisha and Maiko culture, the history of Arashiyama , and the yakatabune tradition- all in English.
Oi River
Enjoy a live shamisen performance in a quiet, scenic area on the river.
Inclusions
- Private traditional boat rental. NOTE: If any participants are under the age of 12, please inform us advance.
- (Traditional Japanese party games) interactive typically played during Geisha entertainment, guided by a former maiko.
- (Photo opportunity) Time for guests to take scenic photos on the river with traditional props.
- (Cultural storytelling) insights into Kyoto's Geisha and maiko traditions shared by your English- speaking guide.
- (Shamisen live performance) Live performance of a traditional japanese three-stringed instrument onboard.
- Meals, Snacks, and drinks are not included in the tour price. Guests may bring their own bevereges. Note: The boat cruise may be cancelled on short notice due to weather or river conditions.
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Please meet at the Arashiyama Tsusen South Boarding Area (Yakatabune, Rental Boat). The dock is located along the Katsura River, near Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama. Look for the rental boat area with signage for "yakatabune". Please arrive 10minutes before the tour start time.
