Myths vs reality
Is there a red light district in Kyoto?
Short answer: not like Tokyo's Kabukicho. And Gion — the name most visitors search for — is not a red light district at all.
Gion is a geisha district, not a red light district
Gion is Kyoto's most famous hanamachi, or geisha district. Geiko (Kyoto's word for geisha) and maiko (apprentices) are traditional performers: dance, music and conversation at teahouses and banquets. It has nothing to do with fuzoku.
Please don't follow them, block their way, or photograph them. Locals have put up signs asking visitors not to take photos on Gion's private lanes.
What about Shimabara?
Shimabara, west of Kyoto Station, was Kyoto's official pleasure quarter in the Edo period. Licensed red light districts like it came to an end after Japan's Anti-Prostitution Act of the 1950s. Today Shimabara is a quiet historic area; you can still see its old gate and a few preserved buildings.
So where is Kyoto's adult nightlife today?
Kyoto's nightlife centers on Kiyamachi and Kawaramachi, around Shijo-dori: bars, izakaya, clubs and a number of adult shops, all within walking distance of Gion-Shijo and Kyoto-Kawaramachi stations. My Kyoto pick, Mitsuran Honkan, is right here.
Much of Kyoto's fuzoku also works as delivery health, where the cast member comes to your hotel — if your hotel allows visitors. How the types differ.
FAQ
Is Gion a red light district?
No. Gion is a geisha district. Geiko and maiko are traditional performers, not sex workers.
Where is adult nightlife in Kyoto?
Around Kiyamachi and Kawaramachi, near Shijo-dori. Delivery health can also come to hotels that allow visitors.
Next: the full Kyoto fuzoku guide.