By Alex
Despite extensive media coverage and increased awareness campaigns by tourism organizations and related institutions, disrespectful behavior toward geisha by Kyoto tourists continues to rise. An association composed of Dōgo residents and shop owners has announced that starting from the 25th of this month, photography is prohibited on all private roads, with violators facing a fine of 10,000 yen (approximately HK$733).
▲ Design image (photo by 663highland [CC BY-SA 3.0] & Nekkei News)
Every year, millions of tourists flock to Kyoto to experience traditional Japanese culture, yet some of their actions have greatly annoyed local residents and tourism professionals—especially those in the geisha industry—including trespassing on private property to take photos, tugging at the sleeves of geisha kimonos, and forcibly taking selfies with geisha and maiko (apprentice geisha).
Once the new regulation takes effect, visitors will still be allowed to take photos on the famous Hanamikoji Street, but photography will no longer be permitted on many of the private roads connected to it. Signage has already been erected at multiple locations along Hanamikoji Street, and the association is stepping up awareness efforts to inform tourists of the new rules as well as proper etiquette during their visit. Notably, surveillance cameras have been installed at relevant spots, which may serve as evidence in potential prosecutions.
However, although the new regulation is now in effect, the association has yet to provide details on how it will be enforced—for example, will police, association members, volunteers, or other organizations be responsible for issuing fines? Netizens are also concerned that if enforcement is not properly carried out, the new rule may become meaningless, and the deterrent effect of the 10,000 yen (approximately HK$733) fine is also questionable. Regardless, everyone hopes the new regulation will minimize tourist disturbances.
Source: SoraNews24, Nikkei News