The number of people visiting Japan has soared in recent years, with the ancient capital of Kyoto one of the most popular destinations.
Inevitably, the Gion district of narrow, flagstoned alleyways and discreet tea houses where Japan's legendary geisha have performed for centuries is a must-see part of the city.
That has, however, led to a number of clashes of cultures. Geisha have complained that they are being chased along streets, pressured to pose for selfies and even pursued into tea houses and their accommodation.
Geisha have also said foreign tourists try to touch their kimono and elaborate wigs or pluck the delicate ornaments from their hairpieces.
The city's tourist authority launched a multilingual app earlier this year instructing foreign visitors on etiquette in the deeply traditional geisha quarter.
That initiative has not apparently solved the problem, however, and local residents are taking the matter into their own hands.
Monitoring cameras have been set up on private lanes where photography is now forbidden, meaning that anyone who contravenes the local law may subsequently tracked down, although it is not clear who will be tasked with enforcing the regulations and collecting fines or where the money will eventually go.
Under the "geisha hunting" hashtag on Instagram, an account called kyoto_tourism_manners_assn is commenting on photos, "Seeing a Geiko or Maiko is an exhilarating feeling. However, please respect their privacy and trade. Next time try to attend a paid venue where they would happily pose for you. Geisha "hunting" is not something locals feel should be encouraged as it objectifies and impedes them, causing them to be late for appointments with clients. Hope you understand and help spread the word next time you're in Kyoto!"
