Books

  • 1. Memoirs of a Geisha (Arthur Golden)

    This bestselling novel is set in Kyoto and follows the life of a young girl who becomes a geisha in the city's famous Gion district.

  • 2. The Old Capital (Yasunari Kawabata)

    Set in Kyoto, this novel tells the story of a young woman who discovers the secrets of her past while exploring the city's historic streets.

  • 3. A Geisha's Journey: My Life as a Kyoto Apprentice (Naoyuki Ogino Komomo)

    This memoir provides an insider's look into the life of a modern-day geisha in Kyoto, offering insights into the traditions and culture of the city.

Movies

  • 1. The Last Samurai (2003)

    Set in Japan during the 1870s, this epic historical drama features scenes set in Kyoto, including the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine.

  • 2. Lost in Translation (2003)

    While not primarily set in Kyoto, this film features scenes filmed in the city, including iconic locations such as Kinkaku-ji Temple and Nanzen-ji Temple.

  • 3. Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)

    Based on the novel of the same name, this film follows the story of a young girl who becomes a geisha in Kyoto's Gion district.