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It is known that local authorities in Japan have received countless complaints about tourists trespassing on private property, entering tea houses or private homes without permission, disturbing, or even chasing geisha and maiko on the streets, forcing them to take photos, and snatching hair ornaments. Some tourists have even gone so far as to chase women wearing kimonos on the street, pulling at their clothing because they thought they were geishas, causing disruption to the lives of local residents.
After all attempts at verbal intervention failed, an association of local residents and shop owners in Gion District (Kyoto) recently issued a regulation prohibiting tourists from taking photos or videos of geisha on the streets without their permission. This regulation came into effect on October 25th, and violators may be fined up to 10,000 yen (approximately 2 million VND). Surveillance cameras have been installed, so even if violators aren't immediately caught, their identities can still be traced.
However, the exact enforcement and penalties for this regulation have not yet been confirmed by the Gion district authorities. Numerous signs prohibiting photography have been placed throughout the district, and local residents are actively distributing leaflets to inform international visitors. The famous Hanamikoji street still allows tourists to film and take photos as usual, while other areas remain off-limits.
Two years ago, the city also released an English-language guide on proper etiquette when visiting, which included a list of activities for which tourists could be fined, including smoking in public and cycling while intoxicated.
Kyoto is not the only city dealing with impolite tourists. Last year, Kamakura, famous for its giant Buddha statue, also had to put up warning signs asking tourists not to eat while walking. In Japanese culture, eating while engaging in physical activity is considered disrespectful.
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