Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
A real Geisha in Gion

During a quiet evening in Gion, Kyoto, I stumbled upon a scene that captured the true essence of this historic city. These four sequential photographs tell the story of a magical and rare moment: a geisha, enveloped in the enchanting night light, opening and closing her door with unparalleled elegance. The street was astonishingly empty, creating an intimate and timeless atmosphere. The red lantern's light reflected on her face, turning each shot into a unique portrait. The series of images captures not only the beauty and elegance of the geisha but also the serene and mysterious essence of Gion. This fortuitous encounter is a true journey through time, an experience rarely documented.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Kyoto, Japan
Copyright: © Marianna Obino