The historic geisha neighborhood in Kyoto, Japan, reported this Thursday that it will close some private alleys in the city's famous district due to the bad behavior of some tourists.
In this way, starting in April the small streets of the Gion neighborhood, home of the artists, will be closed to the public starting in April 2024.
According to The Japan Times, the former imperial capital faces overtourism after the pandemic. Residents have been complaining for several months that tourists harass geikos (as the geisha) and his young apprentices maiko in the tea houses where they work.
Why will geisha streets be closed?
In December, a Gion district council made up of residents urged the city of Kyoto to address the problem, saying their neighborhood “is not a theme park.”
There were even reported incidents where a tourist tore a maiko's kimono and another had a cigarette butt put around her neck.
“We will ask tourists to refrain from entering narrow, private streets starting in April,” said Isokazu Ota, an executive member of the council.
“We don't want to do this, but we're desperate,” he said, adding that they will put up signs.
This way, HanamikojiGion's main Hanamikoji street, will remain public, but the others will be closed to protect the artists.
The geisha tradition
Despite common misconceptions, geishas are not sex workers, but rather entertainers and storytellers highly trained in dances, musical instruments and traditional Japanese games.
Gion, with its origins dating back to the Middle Ages, is not only recognized for its cultural significance, but also for being the home of geisha, who are seen as custodians of traditional Japanese arts.
This district is divided into Gion Kobu and Gion Higashi, the first being larger and frequented by tourists. Both areas are full of “ochaya” (tea houses), where geisha and maikos they perform.
The preservation of geisha culture and respect for their practices have become an essential pillar in the area. With cultural events such as MatsuriOne of Japan's most revered festivals, Gion not only attracts visitors but also educates about the importance of cultural preservation.
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