How Japanese geisha are fighting for survival during a pandemic coronavirus

Reuters photographer Kim Kyung-Hoon went to the geisha district in Tokyo — Akasaka to capture how I feel guardians of the ancient Japanese art of geisha during a pandemic Covid-19. In this difficult period, tell of a geisha, their profession was in such danger, what was never before. As it was, see below:

May straightens her kimono Kaiku. Kaiku wear the protective mask after the photo shoot she will go to work for the party in Asada — luxurious Japanese restaurant.

Kaiku paints the neck of Maya — because they are in the house of the geisha Ikuko preparing for the party.

Geisha for months not worked, as in Japan acted provision of emergency, and now, when work is again permitted, the requirements for social distance has made their work unbearable.

May and Poppies bow master geisha Ikuko.

Geisha, famous for its beauty, witty conversation, and mastery of traditional forms of art can't interact with customers, observing the mandatory 2 meters social distance.

Bed and Maki clean in the living room, Ikuko before dinner

During this time the number of customers fell by 95 percent and the mask is difficult to attach to complex heavy wigs.

Geisha Kaiku, Maki, Ikuko and May perform a dance

Kimono of the geisha Maki, Mayu and Kaiku.

Geisha Ikuko sitting in front of a mirror in your living room.

Shoichi Sonagachi, Keeper of the kimono, wearing kimono in Tokyo Hanasaki, dancer goutami. Hanasaki is preparing for the shooting of the film, which is removed on money of the government of Tokyo, is dedicated to support artists during a pandemic.

Mitsunaga Kanda, makeup artist, and he Hatanaka, stylist at the hair, preparing the dancer of Tokijo Hanasaki to shoot.

Geisha Couk adds a traditional umbrella made of paper — it's called oli.

A staff restaurant Asada in protective masks stand outside with a geisha Ikuko waiting for her colleagues.

Geisha Mayu, Maki and Kaiku rehearsing a traditional dance of geishas.

Geisha Ikuko combing your wig in the living room.