Gion, the famous geisha district of Kyoto, offers two completely different but equally compelling experiences depending on when you visit. During the day, Gion is a beautiful spot for photography and traditional architecture; you can clearly see the historic machiya (wooden townhouses), visit the Yasaka Shrine without the crowds, and explore the teahouses and boutiques of Hanami-koji Lane in the sunlight. However, most travelers agree that Gion is best in the early evening and at night. As the sun sets, the traditional paper lanterns are lit, casting a warm, atmospheric glow over the cobblestone streets. This is the "magic hour" when you are most likely to see Maiko (apprentice geisha) or Geiko flitting between appointments in the backstreets of the Shirakawa area. The night brings a sense of mystery and "Old Japan" that is harder to feel during the bustling, tourist-heavy daylight hours. For the best of both worlds, arrive about an hour before sunset to see the architecture in the light, then stay as the district transforms into its iconic, lantern-lit evening persona.