Geisha spotting, Kyoto crowds and the thorny issue of over-tourism
Alastair Donnelly, one of our founders, shares his thoughts on over-tourism in Kyoto "In the past week there have been some striking headlines regarding tourism to Kyoto. “Kyoto to ban tourists from Geisha district over ‘out of control’ behaviour” was just one of many highlighting the recent decision of the local council in Gion to try and limit access to tourists. The reports feature some of the bad behaviour that has been observed (chasing geisha down the street, touching their kimono, taking pictures without consent) and the negative impact that a surge in tourism following the pandemic has had on local residents and businesses. "For years Japan has used the striking image of Kyoto maiko (trainee geisha) with her distinctive white painted face, elaborate hair piece, and stunning ki ...
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