The Gion district in Kyoto, Japan, is a popular tourist destination. However, soon foreigners will be prohibited from walking there. This measure aims to protect geishas from intrusive crowds. Authorities are already discussing the restrictions.
It is likely that part of the streets will be closed off, with the plan to implement this by April.
“We are going to set up signs warning tourists not to enter our private alleys,” said local official Isokazu Ota to AP. However, he added that the main streets of Gion will remain open.
Geishas and their apprentices are an important part of Japanese culture. These professional performers study traditional arts and frequently appear in the Gion district, on their way to dance lessons or dinners. This is where they encounter tourists.
Complaints about persistent tourists have been frequently received by local authorities. As a result, officials have finally decided to address the problem.