Japan Travel Fixes
Can I photograph geisha/maiko if I see them, or enter private alleys to look for them?
Photographing or blocking the path of geisha/maiko you encounter on the street, and entering private property such as the back lanes of geisha districts, are banned by local ordinance in some areas of Kyoto (like Gion), with fines attached.
In parts of Gion, tourists are barred from entering certain private streets and alleys entirely, and violations can carry a fine.
If you want photos, booking an official kimono/maiko experience or photo session is the safe way to do it.