Geisha and Maiko In Kyoto Yasaka Shrine in Yukata Robes

アサガオの浴衣、涼やか　祇園甲部の「お千度」

Geisha and Maiko from the  Gion Kobu area were out and about in their summer yukata robes decorated with morning glories on July 4

At Yasaka Shrine the ladies were taking part in the "Osendo" ceremony to pray for good health during summer.

With Gion Matsuri festival approaching its climax on July 17, the event calendar is full for the women.

In spite of that, as one maiko said, nothing is more important than health.

Photo©Kyoto Shinbun

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Kyoto Beauties at Yasaka Shrine

八坂神社で着物を着ている京都美人

On a blustery late winter, early spring day - the plums were just starting to blossom - many young women were out and about in their finest kimono.

On the same day an anti-nuclear march - Bye Bye Genbatsu - took place, so Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine were full of people.

There was no overlap among the groups.

Unfortunately, alas, none of the kimono-clad young women joined us for the demonstration.


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Cycling Kyoto Yasaka Shrine

自転車で八坂神社へ

Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto is a Shinto shrine in the Gion section of the city.

It is located at the eastern end of Shijo Dori, a short walk from the Kamo River.

The Shrine has long been connected with the Imperial Family, whose patronage is said to have begun in the Heian Period.

Its history is also deeply entwined with Kyoto's most well-known festival: Gion Matsuri.

In 869 C.E. the portable shrines of the Shrine were carried through the streets as a way of attempting to ward off periodic epidemics that befell the city. Gion Festival is today the oldest continually held festival in the world.

Behind the shrine is Maruyama Park, which is often the site of demonstrations, strolls, and cherry blossom viewing.

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