Maiko makeover
Become a maiko yourself with a wonderful makeover including white make-up, a black wig and a beautiful kimono.
The maiko or geisha look is truly iconic; sumptuous ornate kimono, white make-up and elaborate hair ornaments are instantly recognisable. But have you ever dreamed of yourself dressed as a geisha strolling the Gion backstreets or under the cherry blossom trees? InsideJapan can help you get into the mind of a maiko with a dress-up experience.
We can arrange for you to visit a photographic studio in Kyoto where you will be transformed into a maiko with full make-up, wig and a choice of kimono. Afterwards you can pose for professional photos for a fantastic souvenir of your time in Japan. There's also the option to spend a few hours on an outdoor photo shoot amid the temples and gardens of the Higashiyama district; a sure-fire way to confuse other tourists who may mistake you for the real geisha deal!
This experience is not only for women, men can get the full samurai look too!
When to go:
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: 303 952 0379
A quick note about our experiences: Our experiences are designed to be part of a complete, tailor-made travel package and are not available to book individually. This allows us to ensure every detail – from accommodation to transport – is perfectly coordinated for you. If you're interested in one of these experiences, we'd love to help you build a full itinerary around it!
Other Geisha experiences
View more >Gion walking tour at dusk
Gion comes alive as night falls and the geisha go out to entertain at tea house parties.
Asakusa geisha dress-up
Get the geisha or samurai look in Tokyo's historic Asakusa district.

Geisha photoshoot
We'll grant you exclusive access to photograph a bona fide geisha on location in Kyoto.

Private audience with a maiko
InsideJapan are proud to offer an exclusive, private meeting with a Kyoto maiko.