Understanding the Costs of Experiencing Kyoto's Traditional "Ozashiki" Banquet Play - Japan Travel Sights

In Kyoto’s traditional tea houses, you can experience an “Ozashiki” banquet play, where guests are entertained by Maiko, Geiko, and a “Jikata” (a person who plays musical instruments such as the shamisen).

This experience includes traditional Japanese performing arts, fine cuisine, and engaging in light-hearted games such as “Konpira Funefune.”

In this article, we’ll break down the typical costs associated with attending an Ozashiki, providing insight into the rich cultural experience offered in Kyoto’s hanamachi (flower districts).

Breakdown of the Experience

At a traditional Ozashiki, three performers typically attend to the guests: a Maiko, a Geiko, and a Jikata.

The banquet usually includes kaiseki cuisine, delivered from nearby high-end restaurants.

During the event, the Maiko and Geiko perform traditional dances and lead guests in Ozashiki games.

Costs of an Ozashiki Banquet

When attending an Ozashiki, the cost is generally divided into three categories:

• O-hana-dai (flower fee): This is the payment to the Maiko, Geiko, and Jikata for entertaining the guests with their performances. The cost varies based on factors such as the relationship between the guests and the tea house owner and the duration of the event. On average, the flower fee is around ¥30,000 to ¥40,000 per person. In this example, with three performers, the total flower fee would be ¥105,000.
• Food and drink: The banquet features Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine and alcohol. Even for a single guest, the cost can range from ¥50,000 to ¥60,000. This price typically includes the meal (about ¥30,000 to ¥40,000 per person) and an additional ¥5,000 seating fee per guest. The cost of drinks will vary, and in some cases, if the event extends into a second session, additional charges will apply.
• Gratuity for the performances: Guests also pay a gratuity to the performers when they showcase their dances. This is typically around ¥15,000 per performer, making the total gratuity ¥45,000 for three performers.

Estimated Total Cost

Let’s calculate the total cost for attending a traditional Ozashiki event:

• Flower fee: ¥105,000
• Food and drink: At least ¥50,000
• Gratuity: ¥45,000

Total: Approximately ¥200,000 (or ¥216,000 with tax)

Additional Information

While these numbers provide a baseline, there is no fixed price list for such events.

Costs can vary depending on your relationship with the tea house, the behavior of the guests, and the overall experience.

It’s essential to keep in mind that longer stays or additional requests may increase the final bill.

This flexibility is part of the charm and tradition of Kyoto’s hanamachi.

If you are considering attending an Ozashiki, it’s advisable to consult with the tea house in advance and be aware of the potential costs.