Japan to ban foreigners from entering a famous tourist area due to geishas' complaints

The authorities of Kyoto, one of the most popular tourist cities in Japan, are forced to take measures to protect the Gion geisha district from the unruly behaviour of tourists. Starting from April 2024, tourists will be banned from entering the area.

This decision was made after numerous complaints that visitors touched geishas, took photos of them without permission, and generally violated their personal boundaries, according to Express.

Geisha performances are not just an exotic show for tourists. Highly skilled artists who have been studying traditional dance, music, and tea ceremony for many years enjoy the respect and love of the Japanese, so they are protected and supported.

Local authorities emphasize that Kyoto is not a theme park but a residential city with a rich history and culture. Tourists will still be able to explore the public streets of Kyoto, but they will be banned from entering private areas such as Gion.

Violating this ban and ignoring the relevant signs can result in a fine of 10,000 yen (£52.88).

Isokazu Ota, a member of the local council, commented, "We don't want to do this, but we are desperate."

The ban on entry to Gion is not the first measure taken by the authorities to combat ill-mannered tourists. In 2023, the city began charging tourists to climb Mount Fuji due to overcrowding and littering.

As TravelWise previously reported, a Japanese restaurant has banned visitors from using their phones while eating.