This entire process of just hair and makeup took 1-2 hours, which makes sense why most transformation shops just use wigs which they can dress a customer head to toe in less than 1 hour. After another 5 Kgs of kimono and obi put on me, we headed out to Gion for an hour of strolling around and taking photos.

Little did I know, how crazy other tourists can get. The moment the staff helped me off taxi, crowds came surrounding me in a scary speed. Despite the obvious flaws(my tattoo and not a drop of Japanese), people were very excited to meet a maiko-like figure. In reality, maikos only walk on the streets formally dressed in the evening and they walk really fast.

Starting taking pictures in more open area, because my ornaments got struck by a tree branch for the fifth time. Was probably close to 180cm with the shoes and the ornaments.

My left arm eventually gave in and was trembling, and we started taking pictures without the box.We’re talking about wedge shape sandals that’s 10cm high, 5kg worth of kimono and belts, holding the end of your kimono and a bag on the left hand, and keeping every piece of ornaments in tact on your head.

It was a work out just walking around in the entire outfit in a normal speed, but it’s for sure something to try when you visit Kyoto! Especially in the winter because all the layer will keep you warm and looking pretty.