Geisha

During & after WW ll, Japanese prostitutes called themselves geishas and a misunderstanding spread throughout USA & the world, prompting the Hollywood film Memoirs of a Geisha. Geisha aka geiko & apprentice aka maiko developed under Samurai period 300 years ago. During Samurai period, entertainers trained to learn traditional Japanese art: dance, sing, play instruments, calligraphy but most importantly conversation. In old days, rooms without electricity, lit up white powdered face and party only 90 minutes based on 2 incense burning. Today, very rare for Japanese to attend exclusive geisha party. Today, 300 geishas living in Kyoto, highest in Japan.

Torii Gates of Mt Inari

Mt Inari is sacred mountain in Kyoto famous for shrine, network of trails, thousands of red Torii gates and statues of foxes. Why is fox guardian of shrine? Shrines grow rice. Rats eat rice. Fox eat rat. Famous for thousands of golden red Torii gates donated by businesses seeking prosperity, paying up to $200,000. Open 24/7.

Kyoto Central Train Station

Architectural wonder! 1997 Japanese architect, Hiroshi Hara won global contest to build his vision of futuristic avant-guard train station. Initially controversial in this traditional, historic city of Kyoto. Today architectural wonder embraced by all & enhanced by light shows & stunning views of city & Kyoto tower.

Sumo wrestling (Tokyo)

Sumo wrestlers, in traditional garb arrived at sumo stadium for meet,  parents trailing behind. Small stadium always sold out & patrons sit on thin floor cushions. When crowd roused they throw cushions at stage. Actual wrestling lasts 7 seconds. The ring is small made of dirt from river. Wrestler loses if lands on ground, steps out of ring or hair touches ground. Ok to slap but not punch. Winner wins money but there is no betting in Japan.

Bonsai (Tokyo)

Originally from China but adopted in Japan. Means potted plants. Like geisha, sumo wrestling & taiko drumming, only small niche of elder Japanese interested. Very expensive to purchase. Recently, ancient white pine bonsai sold for $1.3 million, still awaiting to be picked up.