Geishas Under Attack!
Well this is a troubling story: classic Geishas, Japanese women who perform ancient traditions of art, dance and singing, and are distinctively characterized by their wearing of kimono and oshiroi makeup, are under attack.
These legendary Geishas have come under attack – from tourists!
The Guardian has the story:
“Authorities in Kyoto have banned photography in parts of the city’s main geisha neighbourhood, amid a flurry of complaints about harassment and bad behaviour by foreign tourists in the quest for the perfect selfie.
The ban, introduced recently on private roads in the city’s Gion district, includes a fine of up to 10,000 yen (£70), as Kyoto and other sightseeing spots in Japan grapple with the downside of a boom in visitors that is expected to last long after next summer’s Tokyo Olympics.”
The Guardian goes on to report:
“Tourism pollution” is a growing problem in Kyoto, where tourists flock to ancient shrines and temples and, in Gion, catch sight of the female entertainers – known locally as geiko – and maiko apprentices dressed in elaborate kimono on their way to evening appointments.
In a survey of 300 restaurants and shops in the area, complaints ranged from littering and smoking while walking, to blocking traffic and trespassing. Some said they had witnessed groups of tourists surroundings taxis carrying geiko and chasing the women along the street in an attempt to take photographs.
“Tourism pollution” is a problem all over the world, but its troubling that these classic Geishas are being harassed as they try to go about their life.
Terrific reporting as always – click here to read the entire article and support The Guardian!
The world of Geishas is fascinating: they begin as “Maiko” – an apprentice geisha in Kyoto and Western Japan. They perform songs, dances, and play the shamisen or other traditional Japanese instruments for visitors.
I love Japanese culture: unique, steeped in history, and fascinating in ways I am still learning…Tokyo’s iconic neon lights are one of the first things that will blow you away…
I have posted many stories about my 5 trips to Tokyo, but this one I titled:
“Tokyo: A Love Story”...
There are so many magical things about this city…from the world’s largest fish market to bikini robot battles…
Yes, it’s real and it’s so much fun for the entire family!
Click here to see more:
https://johnrieber.com/2014/10/09/tokyo-a-love-story-colorful-cosplay-bikini-robots-breakfast-sushi/
If you enjoy these posts, why not subscribe and never miss out? It’s easy, and there are NO ads of any kind, just stuff I like…click on the main page and “follow” me on the upper right…
Leave me a comment on what is happening to these Geishas…
Categories: Books / Media, Exotic Travel, Japan, Pop Culture, Tokyo!, Travel, Travel Adventures, Travel Memoir
johnrieber 
It’s always sad when people go somewhere and disrespect their hosts
LikeLiked by 1 person
I remember that great book, Memoirs of a Geisha. It was my only experience inside that
Fascinating culture.
LikeLike
How awful!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, a shame indeed
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have seen so many examples of crass behaviour by tourists in many countries. British tourists are some of the worst, and I say that as being British. Lack of respect, and thoughtless, gormless acts.
I wonder why people with the money to travel to such exotic places have so little ‘class’.
Best wishes, Pete.
LikeLike
Pete, I think every country has their “Ugly Americans” and its a shame they are creating problems for people who are living examples of keeping a cultural legacy going…
LikeLike
Not good! This is one thing I really hate about tourism – some people just can’t seem to respect others when they travel. I can’t wait to go to Kyoto eventually, but I will definitely read some culture guidelines before I go!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes we have book on Kyoto and plan to go within the next two years! Take the bullet train from Tokyo!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hope you have a great time!
LikeLike
It is sad that tourists don’t show respect for other people’s cultures and traditions, John. When I travel, I always ask at any places we visit whether or not photographs are allowed.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, respecting the culture is so important…thanks for commenting
LikeLike