KYOTO, Japan — On the quiet streets of Kyoto you will get a glimpse of them. Dressed in Kimono. The familiar white makeup. Walking quickly. That is the extent of what most people see of a geisha.

Geishas in Japan have an enigmatic charm about them. They are so revered that a teacher of the art was once declared a “living national treasure” in the country. Seeing a real geisha is not that easy, ...

With her perfectly lacquered hair, painted face and a submissive demeanor meant to please the men she entertains, the Japanese geisha has the reputation of being a lady of uncertain morals. Delicate, ...

KYOTO, Japan – Like ghosts from another time, the real geisha seem to float silently along the streets at twilight, making their ways to teahouses and restaurants where they will entertain elite, ...