News Kyoto to ban tourists from Gion as of April

In 2019, local authorities rolled out an on-the-spot fine for tourists troubling geishas. The professional artists were being chased down private streets in the district, photographed without their consent, and even subjected to foreign visitors touching their kimono and elaborate wigs. The problem persists as of now, Mr Ota says, as tourists in large numbers throng to Japan after the Covid-19 pandemic with little respect for Japan's social norms and etiquette. [...] Notices prohibiting photography and imposing a hefty ¥10,000 (£52) fine have also gone unheeded. It asked tourists to get consent before taking a selfie with, or photo of, a geisha and that they can only do this on public roads. The local official points out that this fine cannot be enforced on the main thoroughfare like Hanamikoji Street running through the area, and it is ineffective without any legal standing. Now, by finally sealing off the traditionally and culturally rich part of Kyoto, the local council and the city government hope to protect geishas and maiko and preserve Japanese art and its custodian artists.

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Although the fine written on the no-trespassing signs is not statutory or legally binding, Ota said he hopes the warning will deter unruly tourists. The council is considering posting similar signs on other private roads in the Gion district.

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