U.S, March 18 -- Tourists will be banned from private alleys in Kyoto's famed Gion district starting this April, in response to a rise in disrespectful behavior towards geisha and maiko.

Geisha, also referred to as geiko or geigi in certain regions of Japan, are skilled female performers trained in traditional Japanese arts including dance, music, and singing. They are also adept conversationalists and hosts, providing entertainment and companionship in various social settings.

Local officials say tourists have been harassing geisha with unwanted photography, chasing them down streets, and even touching them inappropriately.

Fines for such behavior have been in place since 2019, but according to Gion's representative secretary Isokazu ...