Contact Members/Sign Up Reg Form

Kyoto geisha district bans tourists from private alleys due to over tourism.

Photo-Yahoo News UK

The Gion district in Kyoto, renowned for its iconic geisha culture, is implementing measures to address overtourism by restricting access to private alleys, responding to concerns raised by local residents. As part of these efforts, visitors will be prohibited from entering private lanes within the district, aiming to curb instances of disruptive tourist behavior, particularly in areas frequented by geisha and their apprentices, known as maiko.

Residents of Kyoto have voiced longstanding frustrations over the impact of tourism on their community, with the Gion district bearing the brunt of such issues. In December, a council representing Gion residents urged city authorities to address the matter, emphasizing that their neighborhood should not be treated as a mere tourist attraction. Instances of tourists disrespecting cultural norms, such as damaging traditional garments worn by maiko or invading their privacy, have heightened concerns among residents.

In response to ongoing challenges, the council has opted to take a proactive stance by enforcing restrictions on tourist access to private alleys, starting from April. Isokazu Ota, an executive member of the council, expressed the necessity of these measures, citing the urgency of the situation. Signs will be erected to notify visitors of the ban, signaling a concerted effort to manage tourist behavior and preserve the integrity of the Gion district.

While access to public thoroughfares, like Hanamikoji Street, will remain unrestricted, the decision to limit entry to narrower private streets reflects a desire to protect the privacy and dignity of the district's residents and cultural practitioners. Ota highlighted the intrusive nature of tourist behavior, particularly likening it to intrusive paparazzi tactics when geisha traverse the alleys. Previous attempts to mitigate disruptive behavior, such as implementing fines for unauthorized photography, have proven insufficient in addressing the root causes of overtourism.

The Gion district's struggle with overtourism is emblematic of broader challenges faced by popular tourist destinations in Japan, exacerbated by the surge in tourism following the relaxation of pandemic-related restrictions. In response, authorities are exploring various measures to manage visitor numbers and promote responsible tourism practices. For instance, plans to introduce a fee for hikers ascending Mount Fuji aim to regulate foot traffic and ensure the sustainability of the iconic landmark.

By taking proactive steps to address overtourism, the Gion district seeks to strike a balance between preserving its cultural heritage and accommodating visitors' interests. As tourism continues to play a significant role in Japan's economy, sustainable management practices are imperative to safeguarding the unique cultural identity and well-being of local communities.

March 8, 2024 3:38 p.m. 7346

#GionDistrict #KyotoTourism #Overtourism #GeishaCulture #CulturalHeritage #ResponsibleTourism #CommunityConcerns #PreservingTradition #SustainableTravel #LocalResidents #breakingnews #worldnews #headlines #topstories #globalUpdate #dxbnewsnetwork #dxbnews #dxbdnn #dxbnewsnetworkdnn

Family Care Authority and UAE Climate Group Host Nature-Inspired Events

uae news / uae-national
Feb. 6, 2025 5:21 p.m. 363

This initiative supports the Abu Dhabi Wellbeing Strategy, improving quality of life and family wellbeing in our community...Read More.

12th UN-GGIM Arab States Committee Meeting Ends in Jeddah

global news / world news
Feb. 6, 2025 5:09 p.m. 362

The meeting reviewed the Arab Committee's 2024 annual report, monitored progress across working groups, and discussed international contributions to geospatial...Read More.

Family Care Authority and UAE Climate Group Host Nature-Inspired Events

This initiative supports the Abu Dhabi Wellbeing Strategy, improving quality of life and family wellbeing in our community

12th UN-GGIM Arab States Committee Meeting Ends in Jeddah

The meeting reviewed the Arab Committee's 2024 annual report, monitored progress across working groups, and discussed international contributions to geospatial

Priyanka Chopra Stuns in Pink Diamond Necklace at Brother’s Wedding

Priyanka Chopra dazzles in floral corset lehenga and rare pink diamond necklace at her brother Siddharth's wedding

The Chedi unveils debut Dubai launch with exclusive standalone residences

These homes offer villa-sized layouts with 3.2-meter high ceilings, private entrances, and large terraces with stunning panoramic views of the Dubai skyline

Kasco Developments launches its third residential project in Dubai

Located along Al Jaddaf Waterfront, Volna is an 11-floor building with 65 well-designed homes

Google unveils Thinking model with Gemini after OpenAI, DeepSeek

Google has launched the Gemini 2.0 Flash Thinking Experimental model for app and desktop users

Google Stops Diversity Hirings After Trump's Sledgehammer on DEI Policies

Google stated it is reviewing Trump’s policy changes, which aim to limit DEI efforts in the government and among federal contractors

Ozzy Osbourne to reunite with Black Sabbath after 20 years apart

Black Sabbath's original lineup, featuring Ozzy Osbourne, will reunite for a one-off concert in Birmingham, England, on July 5, marking their first performance

UAE Top Bank FAB Surpasses Q4 Revenue Estimates with Strong Performance

First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), the UAE's largest lender by assets, exceeded fourth-quarter profit forecasts on Thursday, fueled by a strong double-digit revenue gr

Oscars Frontrunner ‘Emilia Perez’ Faces Major Setback in Award Season

After a record number of Oscar nominations, ‘Emilia Perez’ faces scandal due to past social media posts by star Karla Sofia Gascon.

Get In Touch

3001E, 30 Floor, Aspin Commercial Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE

+971 52 602 2429

info@dxbnewsnetwork.com

LAUNCH OF DNN
Follow Us

© DNN. All Rights Reserved.