On 17th November evening, we weaved through the crowded human traffic in Osaka to a dime-lighted ally. It was an unnoticeble side lane off the main street that was overwhelmed with passersby.



As this Geisha walked too swiftly, I could not take the front view of her



This is Gion's Street, home to the Geishas, which has a rich tradition and historical culture. The perspectives towards Geishas are incorrect till today. Most people treat Geishas like prostitutes and dance ladies, with the mind-set that Geishas should be despised and looked down upon. However the truth is that Geishas are highly respected in the present Japan society. The story of a Geisha is very saddening. Mostly the Geishas are brought up in a poor family and sold away to a training centre where they groom into young Geishas. Guidance of the way they walk and talk must be brought up since young (around 9 years of age) so that they would be fit to be called a Geisha when they grow up. Myths of why Geishas are painted white to cover their real look is because they don't want the audience to fall in love with them as Geishas are supposed to led a life of a spinster.




Walking down the peaceful Gion's street, ancient buildings with unique designs are seen down the pathway. It was said that these buildings were used to house the Geishas as well as a place for performance to entertain the customers. We walked quite deep into the street containing hopes of spotting a Geisha walking by. Philip-san pointed out to us a huge structure and said that Geishas live in there presently and during the month of April, there would be a performance called the "Sakura Dance" in conjuncture with the season. As the building was a distance away from us and it was far too dark, flash photography was impossible and thus I didn't take any photos of the building.




Basically the entire trip to this Gion's street was less than 20 mintues as all we did was walk in and out looking at the identical old buildings. Anyway after that we all went to buy Green Tea icecream at a nearby shop. I bet they earned 150% more of their normal profit that night lol. One comment on the icecream -- Ooishi ^_^