Kyoto is a city that breathes history and culture, and our visit there was a memorable one. My daughter, Chhavi, was especially excited about one thing—watching a Maiko dance. Maikos are apprentice geishas, known for their grace, elaborate kimonos, and traditional dance performances.
The Struggle to Find Tickets
As soon as we arrived in Kyoto, we realized something: getting tickets to a Maiko dance was nearly impossible. Everything was sold out for the next few days. We were disappointed but decided to make the most of our trip and stick to exploring the city.
A Lucky Find on the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus
We explored Kyoto using a hop-on-hop-off (HOHO) bus, a great way to see the city’s highlights. And that’s when we got lucky! The HOHO bus service had last-minute tickets for a Maiko dance performance that evening. Chhavi and I couldn’t believe our luck- we bought the tickets right away!
The Mesmerizing Maiko Performance
That evening, we arrived at the venue, the Shozan resort, filled with anticipation. The Maiko who performed was just 16 years old, dressed in an elegant kimono with intricate patterns and traditional hair ornaments. Her movements were so graceful- every step, every gesture told a silent story.
Even though we didn’t understand Japanese, the performance spoke through emotions and music.
A Traditional Japanese Dinner Experience
Along with the performance, a traditional Japanese dinner was served. As a vegetarian, I knew options might be limited, but I’m not very fussy about food. I was happy to enjoy rice, miso soup, and even some bits of fish. It was one of those moments where I embraced the experience rather than worrying about the menu.
Chhavi and I were the only Indians in the group, with the rest being Japanese. Seated next to us was a lovely Japanese couple who spoke only a little English. They noticed Chhavi’s kimono and warmly complimented her on how beautiful she looked. That small gesture made the evening even more special.
Conversations Beyond Language
Our interaction with the couple was charming—we spoke in a mix of English, gestures, and Google Translate. There was something truly delightful about bridging cultures through simple words and smiles. It reminded me how travel is as much about people as it is about places.
A Memory to Cherish
This unexpected experience made our Kyoto trip even more special. It reminded me that travel is not just about plans but also about surprises along the way. Chhavi’s excitement, the beautiful performance, the warmth of strangers, and the joy of an unplanned discovery- this was Kyoto at its best.
Have you ever had a lucky travel moment like this? Share your stories in the comments!