In recent years, Kyoto has faced growing challenges with tourism—specifically with so-called “feral tourists” who lack basic decency and respect for local culture. Among the most affected are Kyoto’s Geisha, or Geiko as they are traditionally known in Kyoto. These women have long stood as cultural icons, representing grace, beauty, and a mysterious elegance that continues to fascinate both visitors.

While the role of the modern-day Geisha has evolved from their historical duties, they remain highly trained artists, skilled in traditional music, dance, tea ceremony, and refined conversation. For centuries, they have been admired and respected members of Kyoto’s cultural fabric. Unfortunately, the rise of mass tourism has brought a darker side: intrusive visitors who chase, harass, and treat them as if they were little more than photo props.

Not every tourist misbehaves, far from it. Most visitors to Kyoto are respectful and eager to learn and explore the city. But it only takes a loud, disruptive minority to tarnish the experience for everyone else. These individuals often ignore local etiquette, block narrow streets with crowds, shove cameras in Geisha’s faces without permission, and in some cases, even grab their kimono sleeves or try to follow them into private establishments. In 2019, authorities stepped in to regulate the historic Gion district—the heart of Kyoto’s Geisha culture—introduced new regulations banning photography on private streets and imposing fines for harassment. Despite this, the problem persists. 

To help you not be a S#!t tourist, we’ve put together a list of basic rules to follow when explore the Gion District of Kyoto, and avoid making these simple mistakes.