Our Venue 光雲寺
Private Maiko Events at Historic Koun-ji Temple
Imagine experiencing the timeless beauty of traditional Japanese culture in a setting typically hidden away from the public eye. Through a unique partnership, we are granted exclusive access to open the gates of Koun-ji Temple — a sacred, non-public Zen temple in Kyoto — for our private maiko events.
Here, away from the bustling crowds, you will not only witness an unforgettable maiko performance, but also step inside a hidden sanctuary rich with imperial history, grand shogunate heritage, and breathtaking Japanese garden design.
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History 歴史
A Sacred Heritage Tied to the Shoguns and Imperial Court
Originally founded in 1280, Koun-ji Temple has a dramatic history of resilience. After being destroyed during the Onin Civil War in the 1470s, it was beautifully restored in 1664 by Zen Master Eichuu Genken, head priest of the famous Nanzen-ji Temple.
This revival was funded by Empress Tofukumonin (Tokugawa Masako) — the granddaughter of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the legendary founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate who unified Japan and ushered in the peaceful Edo period. Thanks to her generous patronage, Koun-ji became a treasured spiritual sanctuary closely tied to Japan’s ruling elite.
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Treasures 文化財
National Treasures & Cultural Heritage Hidden Within
While many of Japan’s historic sites were lost over the centuries, Koun-ji’s most remarkable treasures survived. As our private event guest, you will have the rare opportunity to admire some of these historic artifacts firsthand:
- The original 1664 Main Hall: step inside authentic Edo-period wooden architecture that has stood peacefully for over 350 years.
- A sacred Kamakura-period sculpture: the exquisite statue of Holy Kannon, attributed to the master sculptor Unkei and dating to the late 1100s.
- The prototype of the Hina dolls: the beautiful seated statue of Empress Tofukumonin (carved around 1678), celebrated as the historic origin of the traditional Hinamatsuri dolls.
- The Imperial bell tower: donated directly by Emperor Meisho in the mid-1600s.
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The Garden 名庭
Walk Through a Masterpiece Japanese Garden
Complementing the historic architecture is Koun-ji’s stunning landscape garden, redesigned in 1927 by Ogawa Jihei VII (Ueji) — one of Japan’s most celebrated modern landscape architects.
Renowned for creating over 100 iconic gardens across Japan — including Heian Jingu Shrine, Murin-an Garden, and landscaping at the Kyoto Imperial Palace — Ueji crafted Koun-ji’s garden to reflect pure Zen tranquility. The harmony of the historic hall, lush greenery, and flowing water creates an unmatched backdrop for an evening with a maiko.
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After the Show 拝観
Extend Your Journey: an Exclusive Guided Temple Tour
Your encounter doesn’t end with the maiko performance. After the show, join a brief guided tour of Koun-ji’s Main Buddhist Hall and private Japanese garden, with cultural insights and time for your questions.
Don’t miss this rare chance to experience a piece of hidden Kyoto history. Space for our private temple events is strictly limited to ensure an intimate and luxurious atmosphere.
一期一会
Make Your Kyoto Trip Unforgettable
Reserve your Geisha and Maiko experience — traditional dance, ozashiki games, and photographs in a setting most travelers never see.