Kyoto Japan 2005

Kyoto is a beautiful city. It`s a mix of old and new Japan. The valley is filled with strip malls, apartment complexes, bright lights and party districts, while just a short walk away, approaching the mountains in any direction, you find the most peaceful gardens and pathways to massive shrines. Kyoto is where history has best been preserved in Japan.



These Geisha girls were nice enough to pose for a picture. I think they are actually Maiko - ie. working but still in training - judging by all the colorful stuff in their hair (which geisha don`t wear, and by the fact that they seem quite young). Though still learning the ropes - how to sing and play the koto, serve drinks, be mannerly and entertaining, lose a kimono gracefully, etc. - the Maiko are more popular than geishas - basically because clients prefer younger women.

You don`t see geishas around everyday. It`s dyng tradition in Japan. However, Kyoto is where you are most likely to spot the geishas in the street.


Ryoko.