The Geisha Satomi at a Gion Shrine
A portrait of the geisha Satomi at Yuuraku Inari Daimyojin Shrine in Gion Kobu in Kyoto. Satomi and Natsuko were the first geiko who accepted my presence in Gion Kobu back in 2002 - 2003 and graciously stopped to pose for me on occasion when I was starting out. Although Natsuko retired in 2006 or so, Satomi is still very active in Gion Kobu.
In fact, I ran into her at the corner of Shijo and Hanamikoji a few weeks ago as I was on my way to Starbucks for a quick coffee before a photo session. When I entered the coffee shop, I was stunned to be greeted by the sound of Christmas carols and a cheerful "Merry Christmas!" from Ayami, my favorite barista, who was wearing a red Christmas t-shirt. It was only November 1.
I contemplated a quick reply of "Bah! Humbug!" but I knew too much would be lost in translation...