Gion, Kinki, Japan

5ManchesterAlbion 5:00 PM Nov 22, 2022

Like stepping back in time to an older Japan, hidden just out of sight
Gion is probably the most fascinating district of Kyoto. It should be visited both by day and night, but especially at night when it is wonderfully atmospheric. It feels like old Japan: traditional buildings and narrow alleyways that evoke an air of mystery as if there is another Gion hidden just out of sight. Walking through the tiny alleys feels like stepping back in time.

4caj68 5:00 PM Feb 8, 2020

Temples, food stalls and Geishas and Maikos if you are lucky.
I visited in the late afternoon hoping to see a Geisha and found the Kennin Ji Temple which I thoroughly recommend. I had resigned myself to not seeing any Geishas and was enjoying the old wooden architecture when out came 2 Maikos being escorted to one of the tea houses. Beware that this road is a private road and photography is prohibited as so many girls have been bothered by the tourists taking pictures. There is a 10000Yen fine for taking pictures in this area although a few people took the risk. I would go again in the hopes of catching a glimpse of these cultural icons. Interesting to note that Maikos are the 1st year apprentices. They only paint the lower lip and they have long adornments to their hair decorations. Their own hair is teased into the grand buns. Their Kimono sleeves are much longer and the Obi at the back is much longer than the 2nd year Geikos. At the end of the main street is the Yasaka Shrine with the alley of food stalls. Make sure you use the seating areas to eat as you cannot walk along eating. There is so much more to explore but sadly I ran out of time.