Daily Photo: Maiko in Kyoto
December 31, 2008 · Print This Article
As I left Kiyomizu-dera and wandered about on the small streets leading to the Gion area of Kyoto, I noticed a bit of commotion at the end of one street. Two maiko were walking down the street and stopping to pose with people who asked them to do so. This willingness to pose makes me suspicious about whether or not they were true maiko or not. Regardless, they looked exquisite. For photographing them, I didn’t just want them to mug for my lens, so I tried to catch them in-between posing for others.
KIT USED:
- Nikon D80
- Tamron XR Di II 17-50mm f/2.8 lens
EXIF DATA:
I agree. They might not be Maiko. There are many places where regular girls can get made up to be Geisha and walk around town.
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lovely shot Jason. Makes me wish I was there.
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Jason Collin Reply:
January 2nd, 2009 at 11:54 AM
Thanks, if you can come and visit before March we can go out photographing together!
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Jamaipanese Reply:
January 2nd, 2009 at 12:19 PM
“come visit before March” I so wish I could just easily do that.
I could come over before March….thats March 2011 right?
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[...] fame of Pontocho Alley. Once there though I learned that this street is home to geisha and maiko (see photo) who display their talents in places no mere tourist can simply wander into. This photo was taken [...]
They definitely aren’t real maiko, but girls that went to a maiko henshin studio. You can tell from their hair ornaments, makeup, and the colors and patterns used on their collar and obiage. They definitely look very pretty, though, so it’s no wonder they had a number of people trying to get a photo.
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