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Tayū are the most mysterious and misunderstood female figures in Japanese culture. Their golden age occurred more than 300 years ago, when tayū and kabuki actors were the idols of the time. Kikugawa Tayū is one of a handful of tayū in Kyoto today, and I photographed her for several years for an upcoming book about her life and the history of tayū.
Kikugawa Tayu and Cherry Blossoms
Kikugawa Tayu and Chrysanthemums 1
Kikugawa Tayu Amidst Maple Leaves
Kikugawa Tayu and Tea Ceremony 2
Kikugawa Tayu at Ningyo Kuyo 3
Kikugawa Tayu at Ningyo Kuyo 1
Kikugawa Tayu Dancing Inishie 1
Kikugawa Tayu Dances Inishie 2
Kikugawa Tayu Dances Inishie 3
Kikugawa Tayu Dances Inishie 4
Kikugawa Tayu Dances Inishie 5
Kikugawa Tayu with Maple Leaves
Kikugawa Tayu Clogs
Kikugawa Tayu at Ningyo Kuyo 2
Kikugawa Tayu Dances Inishie 7
Kikugawa Tayu Performs Kyo no Shiki
Kikugawa Tayu Tea Ceremony 1
Kikugawa Tayu with Chrysanthemums 2