Gion Matsuri 2013 #4

Satsuki chan, portrait

She looks stunning. I remember seeing Satsuki when she was still Luna, a minarai early 2011 (see here). She already looked great but I couldn't imagine she would become such a beautiful Maiko. And again, I am so grateful to her, she is so patient and friendly despite of all requests.

An angel

Gion Matsuri 2013 #3

Geiko Kyouka, Gion Matsuri

Geiko Kyouka waiting for the next hoko. This time she didn't take her camera.
Great to see her. Always friendly, accessible and full of energy! As always, I am grateful to her as well as Sayaka and Satsuki for their kindness and wonderful photo series.

Gion Matsuri 2013 #2

 Carrying the Mikoshi, Gion Matsuri

Festival participants carried the (heavy) wooden portable Shrine from Yasaka through Gion and its neighbouring districts. Shop owners (including Ochaya) wait for them to greet them and to distribute some refreshment (mainly beer and sake).

They all looked exhausted but probably felt much better in front the Ochaya Ichiriki (below).

Maiko Chisako

Gion Matsuri 2013 #1

Toshimana, attending Gion Matsuri main parade

So good to be back to Kyoto for a short break after 2 years. And on July 17, there was only I place I wanted to be to see Gion Matsuri main parade : Shinmachi. This is also where I watched the parade 2 years ago (see here)... and the year before, with Maiko & Geiko cheering the participants who were pulling the heavy hoko.

A day in Bangkok

Maiko Mitsuna, Hisasuzu and Geiko Ichifuku

Feb 2013

It's been a while... So great to see Maiko Mitsuna and Hisasuzu with Geiko Ichifuku. The excellent restaurant Tensui in Bangkok organized this event: Dance, chat and Chakai (tea ceremony). After the dance, I asked them for a short session in the garden. They kindly accepted although it was 35.C in BKK today...

-to be continued-

Momiji - Koto-In

Fountain at Koto-In temple

Kyoto 2011

Here we go. Fabulous autumn colors, everyone wants to enjoy the momiji (red maple leaves).

Green variation

Inner garden, Ginkakuji

Kyoto 2011

Same series as this post.

Party in Gion

 Enchanting capture

Kyoto 2011 

Another timeless & stunning scene in Gion. Suzuko and other Geiko dressed up and getting excited by the parade to come. For some reason, I didn't take any picture of the parade. My focus was on this beautiful crowd.