Chasing Shadows in Kyoto: A Novice Photographer's Encounter with Geishas

In 2016, as a novice photographer with a keen sense of curiosity, I embarked on a tour of Japan, eager to capture the essence of its culture through my lens. My journey led me to Kyoto, a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. But my true objective was more elusive: to photograph real geishas, those enigmatic figures who represent the living heritage of Japan.

Kyoto's Gion district, known for its well-preserved architecture and atmospheric streets, is the heart of geisha culture. Gion is a place where time seems to stand still, and where one might catch a glimpse of a geisha or maiko (an apprentice geisha) hurrying along the narrow lanes to her next engagement.

As I wandered through Gion's lantern-lit streets, camera in hand, I felt the weight of the task ahead. Geishas are known for their discretion and are not easily photographed. They are often surrounded by an air of mystery, and their presence is fleeting—a momentary brush with history that can vanish in an instant.

It was during these quiet walks, trying to blend into the background, that I finally caught sight of them. A group of geishas, their delicate faces partially obscured by the shadows of their traditional hairstyles, moved gracefully through the streets. The atmosphere was electric, a mix of anticipation and respect for these living symbols of Japanese culture.

With careful movements and a steady hand, I managed to capture a few shots of these elusive figures. Each photograph felt like a treasure, a rare glimpse into a world that is often hidden from view. The challenge was not just in the technical aspects of photography, but in the art of being invisible, of capturing the moment without disturbing it.

Those images, taken in the heart of Kyoto, remain some of the most cherished in my collection. They are a testament to the city's enduring connection to its past, and to the geishas who continue to embody the grace and elegance of Japanese tradition.