The appearance of the last geisha on these pages was perfect, if indeed the picture wasn’t, and this one (or maybe she’s a maiko) is definitely no different.
With her ensemble perfectly suited to her surroundings.
Another Geisha in Gion
Photographs from a small group of islands
john ball says
How clean are the streets? Is this typical of Japan, if so, then shame on us. By the way beautiful photographs.
Taylor says
I really love the second picture. The framing and depth of field, then the scale of the subject and shapes around her.
PeterD says
With the dangling obi like that, I suspect you are right and this is a maiko.
Josie says
Stunning shots.
Travis says
She’s a maiko.
“Maiko and Geiko may share some fundamental similarities in dress but there are 3 key ways to tell them apart.
Firstly, their hair styles are quite different. The Geiko actually wears a wig whereas the Maiko arranges her own hair. Both wear floral hair ornaments, chosen to suit the season.
Secondly, their kimono and obi style differs. Irrespective of how more ornate the patterns and colors may be, the Maiko kimono has tucks sewn in to the shoulders and sleeves (historically, to allow the size to be adjusted). The Maiko’s obi belt is also tied far higher and hangs much lower.
Thirdly, the 10cm high wood block footwear‘okobo’is only worn by the Maiko.”
Source: http://kyoto-gion-corner.info/ozashiki-asobi/maiko.html
Great photos BTW.
Tornadoes28 says
It is much better to see her by herself rather then surrounded by dozens of tourists with cameras.
Rei* says
Aww this is cool 🙁 i have never been able to see a geisha (maiko or geiko..)