How I met a Geisha in Japan

[MsPrincessChaos]

I'm sorry to rain on your parade. This is not a geisha. This person is a tourist dressed like a Maiko (apprentice Geiko). Geiko is the term used for Geisha in Kyoto. If you want to meet real Maiko and Geiko, there are a lot of resources online or places you can go in Kyoto. There is even a way to meet Maiko virtually. I’m so sorry you got fulled. I know a lot about Geiko culture, so it’s easy for me to spot a fake. I hope you get to meet a real Maiko or Geiko in the future 😊

[TheRealSlimLady]

you saw a what? what's a 'gay sure'?

[Pollrzan]

The issue of tourists being disrespectful to geishas, particularly in Japan, is a recurring concern. Geishas are highly trained artists who dedicate years to mastering traditional Japanese arts and hospitality. Unfortunately, some tourists misunderstand their role, treating them as attractions rather than respected professionals.

Common Issues:

1. Uninvited Photos: Tourists often try to take photos of geishas without their consent, intruding on their privacy and disrupting their daily lives.


2. Physical Harrassment: Some visitors attempt to touch their kimonos or obstruct their paths to take pictures.


3. Disrupting Ceremonies: Tourists unaware of Japanese customs may interrupt performances or ceremonies involving geishas.


4. Stereotypes and Misunderstandings: Many tourists mistakenly associate geishas with outdated or inaccurate stereotypes, which can lead to inappropriate behavior.



How Japan is Addressing It:

Restricted Access in Kyoto: Areas like Gion have implemented photography bans to protect geishas' privacy.

Awareness Campaigns: Posters and signs educate tourists about respectful behavior.

Cultural Tours: Guided tours allow tourists to learn about geisha culture in controlled, respectful environments.


How Tourists Can Show Respect:

Avoid taking photos unless explicitly permitted.

Appreciate geishas' work by attending performances through proper channels.

Learn about Japanese culture and etiquette before visiting.

Respect boundaries and treat geishas as artists, not novelties.


Respecting geishas is crucial for preserving their rich cultural heritage and maintaining harmony between locals and visitors.

[Utsusemi-wr]

In am afraid that the " princess" is right. This was a so called Maiko Henshin. Someone who got dressed up as a Geisha apprentice. It is popular and rather costly. So you might have not met the real deal, but someone willing to pay a good amount of money to look as close as possible. The easiest telltale signs are the shoes and the bag. The kimono is also not one Maiko would wear. The easiest ( and decent ) way to see Geisha are the dancing events in Gion.

[rafapercino]

The proper way to meet them 8s to book a dinner party or cultural dinner, were they will entretain and be properly paid. This is not very respectful, it's exactly why the ban in Gion was made. They are professional artists, their kimono, make up and hair are very expensive, take lots of time to arrenge. They are not on the streets to take pictures with tourists, or to talk to strangers. Kyoto is not Disneyland.

[Idk_me-anime]

She's no geisha She's a Maiko

[anastasiagriswoldthean]

Sorry, but that is a fake Geisha. Real Geishas and Maikos will never stop to pose with tourists, even for a few seconds. They are always trying to get to their destination on time without delays

[eh]

Lmao trying to take pictures of them as if they’re amusement park actors 💀

[arkadandfortuna]

1. The AI pronunciation was off.
2. Her hair and Obi was sloppy looking.

[Raventh]

She isnt an object or an animal quit acting like she is

[AcidToxicT]

She's fake, im sorry to tell you