Modern Japan has a lot to offer, but in urban areas, space and companionship aren't high on the list. Meanwhile, workaholism, especially in these uncertain economic times, means less time for family and friends. Husbands work 14-hour days, while wives are left alone at home once the children leave. Excitement buzzes down the narrow Kyoto street. There, in a doorway, stand two young women in glittering kimono and eerie white makeup, blossoms trailing from their sculptured hair.
Tourists gather into a jostling line, cameras firing.
Teenagers and toddlers crowd in to pose with them. The geisha smile demurely, but keep oddly silent. This is not about tourists taking advantage of people in trouble. We are not vultures. And I have yet to hear anyone in Tokyo or Hong Kong or Bangkok say they aren't delighted to have our money.