7th Naramachi
Hana Akari
Experience the elegance of Japan’s traditional arts as 50 geisha and maiko from 25 districts unite in Nara for a once-in-a-lifetime cultural performance. Join us this spring for two days of mesmerizing dance, music, and an exclusive geisha banquet.
Date: April 6 to 7, 2025Venue: Naramachi, Nara Prefecture
What is
Naramachi Hana Akari?
Naramachi Hana Akari is a one-of-a-kind cultural event in Nara that celebrates the elegance of Japan’s geisha traditions. Held each spring in the historic Naramachi district, this annual festival brings together 50 geisha and maiko from 25 different geisha districts (known as hanamachi) across Japan — all performing together on a single stage.
The event’s name, “Hana Akari” (花あかり), means flower lights — a symbol of hope and beauty that aims to “light a lamp in Japan’s vanishing geisha towns.” It’s more than a performance — it’s a cultural revival.
Founded in 2016 by Kikuno, Nara’s last remaining geisha, this festival has grown from a small local event into a major national showcase of traditional dance, music, and artistry. Visitors are treated to a rare and unforgettable experience of watching authentic geisha performances outside of Kyoto or Tokyo.
Whether you’re a fan of Japanese culture or simply curious about the world of geisha, Naramachi Hana Akari offers an immersive journey into elegance, tradition, and community spirit — all set in one of Japan’s most historic towns.
Event Highlights
50 Geisha & Maiko from Across Japan
Witness an unprecedented gathering of 50 geigi and maiko representing 25 hanamachi (geisha districts) — including Kyoto, Tokyo, Kanazawa, and more — performing together in Nara.
Traditional Dance Performances
Enjoy a 2.5-hour stage show featuring beautifully choreographed dances, vibrant kimono, and live traditional music with shamisen, taiko, and flute.
Grand Banquet with Geisha
An immersive evening at the historic Kikusuiro, including a kaiseki dinner, drinks, and interactive ozashiki games with geisha and maiko. Limited to around 100 guests for an intimate experience
Authentic Cultural Revival
The festival supports the revival of Japan’s fading geisha traditions, especially Nara’s own historic entertainment district. It’s a meaningful event with both artistry and purpose.
Cherry Blossom Season
Take advantage of Nara’s spring beauty. Combine the event with cherry blossom viewing at Sarusawa Pond, Nara Park, and nearby temples.
Easy Access from Kyoto & Osaka
Just 30–45 minutes by train, Nara is a perfect cultural escape — ideal for a day trip or overnight stay.
Ticket & Booking Info
Yamato Odori Dance Performances
- Date Options:
- April 5 (Sat) @ Nara 100-Year Hall
- April 6 (Sun) @ Naramachi Center
- Time: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM (doors open at 12:00 PM)
- Price: ¥8,000 per person (single-day ticket)
- Combo Ticket (Both Days): ¥15,000 – recommended for the full experience, as each day features different performers.
Grand Banquet with Geisha (April 6 Only)
- Venue: Kikusuiro – a historic Japanese restaurant by Sarusawa Pond
- Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (reception begins at 5:00 PM)
- Price: ¥30,000 per person
- Includes: Full kaiseki dinner, drinks, and ozashiki games with geisha and maiko
- Capacity: Limited to ~100 guests – early booking strongly recommended.
Important Booking Notes
- Seats for the dance shows are pre-assigned in order of booking.
- Banquet tickets require advance reservation – no same-day sales or walk-ins.
- No cancellations are accepted due to high demand.
- Ticket sales typically close by late March 2025.
Other Things to Do in Nara
Perfect Nara Bus Tour with Todaiji & More
¥11,000
“Kaki no Ha Zushi” Cooking Class
¥4,500
Yoshino Cedar Chopsticks Workshop
¥3,000
How to Get to Naramachi
Naramachi, the heart of the Hana Akari festival, is Nara’s preserved historic district — and getting there is easy from Japan’s major cities.
From Kyoto
- Kintetsu Limited Express to Kintetsu Nara Station (~35 minutes)
- From the station, it’s a 10–15 minute walk to the Naramachi Center and Sarusawa Pond area
From Osaka
- Take the Kintetsu Nara Line or JR Yamatoji Line to Nara Station (~30–40 minutes)
- From JR Nara Station, it’s a 15–20 minute walk or a 5-minute taxi ride to Naramachi
From Tokyo
- Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, then transfer to the Kintetsu Line to Nara
- Total travel time: about 3.5 hours
From Kansai International Airport (KIX)
- Limousine bus or train via Tennoji Station (~90 minutes to Nara)
Once in Naramachi, venues like Naramachi Center and Kikusuiro are within walking distance of each other. The area is compact and easy to explore on foot — perfect for combining the event with sightseeing and dining.