What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (2024)

There are many misconceptions about Geisha, one of the oldest and most celebrated traditions in Japan. Whilst it’s been a part of Japan’s history for thousands of years, the traditional concept made major waves across western society when the 2005 Academy-award winning film “Memoirs of a Geisha” exploded into the scene. It told the story of a young Japanese girl who made her way in life as a Geisha, and whilst there were definitely some strong and true elements reflected in the film, its reception saw many controversies and divided opinions amongst the audiences.

In particular, the majority of the Japanese audience were aghast at how the traditional role of the Geisha was portrayed – it was warped, inaccurate, and apparently highly westernised.

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (1)

This film may or may not have planted the roots of the misconceptions that many foreigners have of Geisha, but it definitely played a role in the way they are often mistaken for participating in activities that their actual elite line of work does not deliberate in. It also doesn’t fully detail or do justice the amount of dedication and effort aspiring Geisha must be willing to sacrifice in order to become a full-fledged recognised Geisha.

What’s more, it is difficult these days to truly understand what makes and defines a Geisha, when the numbers have dwindled down to a tiny fraction of what they use to be. The numbers, at the peak of Geisha popularity, are relatively unknown, however during the 1920s, there was a recorded number of over 80,000 in Japan. Nowadays, almost 100 years later, there’s only a mere 270 or so Geisha and their apprentices, known as Maiko, still in practice. How times have changed!

The word Geisha itself literally translates to “artisan”, and it is in the world of traditional Japanese arts and entertainment that they truly shine. In the most generic sense, they use their talents and well-practiced techniques to provide entertainment for customers on the occasion of banquets and performances. In western Japan, including Kyoto, the term ‘Geiko’ is another, more commonly used term for Geisha, but they both mean identical things.

In this little piece of an article, we’ll attempt to dispel any common misconceptions that people have, as well as provide you with a basic but detailed understanding of how they came to be.

What Is a Geisha – History

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (2)

It was in the 1700s when they were first introduced, and the 1800s when they rose to prominence. It was only during the second half of the 18th century that it was officially recognised as a profession. At first, they began as regarded as entertainers at glamourous entertainment centres around Japan.

However, as more and more entertainers became specialised in a particular type of performance, it eventually led to the emergence of Geisha. Fun fact: the first ones were actually men, who entertained the customers in waiting rooms who were visiting popular ‘oiran’ (courtesans).

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (3)

Overtime, the ever-popular oiran services depleted until the profession was eradicated altogether, elevating the social status of Geisha. Up until World War II, trained and recognised Geisha throughout the country enjoyed the elite reputation they were bestowed, which saw entertainment as a positive for the population.

However, the decline in number of practicing Geisha and customers with disposable income was exacerbated by the war efforts, and around the mid-1940s, many Geisha districts unfortunately had to shut down, forcing many of them to find work elsewhere.

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (4)

A year after the war, there was a resurgence in Geisha practices and activities, but by then, many original ones were comfortable in the lifestyle they’ve found and never returned. As for the Geisha who picked it back up again, some decided that it was time to incorporate Western-influences in their style of dress and way of entertainment, causing a divide.

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (5)

To become a Geisha is no small feat. It takes years of dedication and practice to transform into a full-fledged Geisha, and all the hard work and effort means that it’s usually the only career path the individual forges for themselves.

To begin, one must move into a ‘okiya’ (special training houses), at the typical age of 15 (in the early ages, girls often began their training at the tender age of six years old). There, they will learn about the various forms of traditional Japanese arts and how to best perform them.

They will also learn about the strict communication standards, the various forms of hospitality that must be displayed at all times during a performance, and the multitude of situations one may find themselves in and how to deal with it.

What Is A Geisha Today?

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (6)

A Geisha today holds the same morals and standards comparing to many moons ago, however, much of their circumstances have changed and whilst they have inherently held onto their roots, there are a few major changes that have assisted in assimilating them into modern society as we know it today.

One of the biggest differences that separate the Geisha in history from today is how the term ‘mizuage’ is defined. Back then, in the most generic sense, it was the ‘coming of age’ ceremony for a Maiko (apprentice Geisha) to signify that she is ready to become a Geisha. One of the long-standing supposed associations with this celebration was also the loss of one’s virginity. Whilst there have been inconsistencies with past accounts of mizuage actually pertaining to this aspect, since the post-war era in Japan, the practice has been outright legally banned.

The age that an individual has to start training to become a Geisha has also differed greatly from when it was first introduced. As mentioned before, Geisha back in the day start their training as early as six years old, whereas these days, sometimes they don’t even start until they finish high school (mid to late teens).

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (7)

Today, the Geisha who exist in areas such as Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Tokyo are some of the most highly valued professional entertainers of the region. However, please note that the ones which operate in Kyoto are the most esteemed, and Kyoto is considered the most prestigious place for them. Here, the Geisha (or Geiko, in Kyoto), still live in okiyas.

Whilst in the past, the only way to experience Geisha was to know someone who knew them (connections were so important back then!).Nowadays, they have teamed up with tourism companies, ochayas (tea houses), and ryoteis (traditional Japanese restaurant) to widen the audience

However, it is still very much considered a prestigious form of entertainment, and not every establishment has the connections, nor can you just waltz in to one that does offer it and expect to experience a Geisha performance immediately. It does take time and effort to plan.

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (8)

Generally speaking, ochayas are quite prestigious and are highly exclusive, and mostly allow access to regular customer who they trust. They don’t bill each event; they bill once a month for all expenses accrued.

However, since they have teamed up with tourism companies, many doors have opened up for regular tourists to book in a highly sought-after Geisha experience. Please note that they are usually quite expensive, being around the 50,000-yen mark for a full Geisha experience at dinner, not including the dinner itself.

For that amount, you can expect to be thoroughly entertained by the Geisha during dinner. They usually engage in conversation with the guests (you will most likely need to hire a translator if you don’t speak any Japanese), keep everyone’s glasses topped up, and initiate fun games which involve drinking.

The highlight of these dinners is when they actually command your full attention for their highly intricate and skilful dancing, which is accompanied by traditional music played by another Geisha on the shamisen (traditional Japanese three-stringed lute).

Difference Between a Geisha and Maiko

A Maiko is an apprentice Geisha. After a few years of thorough and intense training, a Maiko will have a mizuage ceremony to be initiated into becoming a full-fledged Geisha. There are multiple differences between the two, however we’ve listed the most important details below:

Age

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (9)

Maiko usually start their training at a young age, around 15-16 in Kyoto, and 17-18 in Tokyo. Full-fledged Geisha begin at 21-23 years old.

Hairstyle

Geisha usually wear perfectly styled wigs, whereas Maiko style their hair naturally into buns. Both of these hairstyles, however, are styled by highly skilled artisans.

Hair Ornaments

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (10)

Maiko, surprisingly, wear more decorated ornaments in their hair, and their designs, colours, and levels of complexity can sometimes reflect their current stage of training. Once they graduate into becoming a Geisha, they wear simple combs.

Make-Up

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (11)

A Maiko will always be seen wearing a full face of white makeup. However, there will be a band of skin showing closer to the hairline. During the early stages of training, only the bottom lip will be painted red. This will advance to both lips painted in a thin red line, and then full painted lips as they become Geisha. Geisha will only have this make-up on if they are going to a special performance.

Kimono

A Maiko will wear colourful, long-sleeved kimonos (a typical Japanese garment) with a wider sash representing a bow which flows down the back. A Geisha will wear a more subtle kimono, usually one colour with shorter sleeves, a shorter sash. A Maiko will have a thicker, looser collar on their kimono, which is usually the colour red, whilst a Geisha will have a tighter white colour.

Footwear

Maiko will wear okobo (high wooden sandals), whereas Geisha will wear geta (shorter wooden sandals).

Now that you know the main differences between Geisha and Maiko, let’s do a quick test! Where is the Maiko in the picture below? Answer in the comments. 🙂

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (12)

How You Can Spot A Geisha in Japan

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (13)

If you absolutely can’t afford to fork out for a private viewing of Geisha entertainment, there’s still hope. We have listed below some tips for you to maximise your chances of seeing them:

  1. After a full-on Geisha performance in Tokyo, but balk at spending a few hundred dollars on the experience? You’re in luck! The wonderful team at Voyagin are offering you the opportunity to witness the authenticity of a cultural Geisha experience, wrapped up in a succinct 90-minute activity. There will be an ochaya, traditional song and dance, Japanese games, and possibility to mingle with regulars of the ochaya involved. Interested? Find out more here!
  2. In Kyoto, hang around Hanami-koji-dori in Gion (towards Kennin-ji Temple), and the Shiji-dori end of Pontocho. There’s usually a bit of Geisha activity going on in these particular areas. There’s a high chance of you catching a glimpse of one heading to work usually around dusk, especially towards the end of the weekend and during the holidays. Be warned though, you will be amongst the hordes of other tourists waiting around also waiting on a chance to see a real-life Geisha.Also, be respectful, as there have been unsavoury instances where they have been mobbed by overly enthusiastic tourists.
  3. If you don’t want to organise your own tour of Kyoto to seek Geisha, maybe book this cool tour with Voyagin. We recommend this tour as it is a fun, relaxing and informative walking tour that takes you through the best parts of Gion where you can take in some wonderful sights. Whilst a Geisha sighting may not be guaranteed, there’s still a high chance you might spot one! To book the tour, click on this link.
  4. For a less traditional experience in Kyoto, you can head to the Kaburenjo Theatre, where Geisha and Maiko are known to take orders for Japanese drinks in the beer garden. It’s less pricey than booking a banquet, but the tables generally fill up quick so plan to wait a bit if you’re going during peak hours!
  5. For some slightly lighter entertainment, the Maiko Show in Kyoto Tower offers the audience a chance to watch afternoon performances by Maiko who are still in training. It may not be as polished as watching a group of Geisha entertain, but it’s still beautiful and unique.
  6. If you happen to be in Kyoto during the major festival periods, then you’re in luck. Geisha and Maiko generally get dressed up for these events, especially if they have affiliations with the associated temples and shrines. Certain festival may include:
    • Yakasa Shrime Setsubun – February 2nd – 3rd
    • Higashiyama Hanatoro Festival – Early – Mid-March
    • Kyoto Gion Festival (this is Kyoto’s biggest festival) – July 1st – 31st
  7. If you are visiting the city of Kanazawa (which we highly recommend you to do), you can also enjoy a Geisha show by booking this tour.

Learning about the art of the Geisha is a wonderful thing, and we hoped we’ve enlightened you in one way or another. We understand that there are many misconceptions and whilst no one is at fault, it is an important part of Japanese history, and deserves to be known for what it truly is. The Japanese community are making solid efforts to teach the world about Geisha, and we hope from this article and associated tours that you take-away some valuable information!

And for more tips about other aspects of Japanese culture, make sure you join our Facebook Group!

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition (2024)

FAQs

What Is A Geisha - The Secrets Of This Mysterious Tradition? ›

The culture of the Geisha originated in Japan, where they are seen as symbols of culture and grace, full of puzzling mystery. They are entertainers who can be employed as hostesses for parties and other events, whether formal or informal.

What exactly does a geisha do? ›

Geisha (or geiko) are professional entertainers who attend guests during meals, banquets and other occasions. They are trained in various traditional Japanese arts, such as dance and music, as well as in the art of communication.

What does a geisha girl symbolize? ›

In Japanese culture, few images are more enduring than the geisha. A romantic symbol of classical Japan, geisha are traditionally shown as enigmatic, elegant, powerful, sexual and even lonely figures who have become a shadow of their former selves in the modern day.

Are geishas allowed to marry? ›

Geisha cannot get married. The rule of this profession is “being married to the art, not a man”. If they want to get married, they have to quit the job. Once they quit, it's usually impossible to come back, however they can debut from the beginning in a different city, under a different name and rules.

Why did the geisha cut her leg? ›

To inflame a doctor's lust for Sayuri (for the impending bidding war for her virginity), Mameha intentionally cuts Sayuri's leg high on her thigh (off camera). Mameha tells the doctor the cut came from a scissors accident; he stares longingly at her leg before stitching it up.

Are geisha forced? ›

The geisha system was traditionally a form of indentured labour, although some girls, attracted by the glamour of the life, volunteered. Usually, a girl at an early age was given by her parents for a sum of money to a geisha house, which taught, trained, fed, and clothed her for a period of years.

Do geishas still exist today? ›

Nowadays, there are just 1,000 geisha left in Japan, most of whom live and work predominantly in Tokyo and Kyoto. These modern geisha tend to remain within their district, where they're treated with the utmost respect by Japanese locals, and not approached for photos or conversation.

Why do girls want to be geishas? ›

Cultural Interest and Curiosity: Participants, especially women, express a strong interest in understanding the cultural aspects of being a geisha. Some believe that women are generally more curious and interested in exploring different cultures, such as Japanese culture through the geisha experience.

Do geishas get paid? ›

Jimae Geiko get all of the money they earn, but also have to pay rent for an appartment in their hanamachi or close to it (which are expensive), bills, lessons (at least 2,500 USD a month), makeup, the hairdresser (mainly during odori-season), have to pay an okiya or ochaya for scheduling their appointments and are ...

Why do geishas have white faces? ›

In the past, there was no electricity in Japan, so artists entertained by dim candlelight. Eventually, they started painting the faces white to look more beautiful in such conditions.

Is a geisha a concubine? ›

Geisha were entertainers who were indentured to geisha houses through a contract system, whereas concubines had a 'stable, ongoing sexual relationship' with a man of the household but occupied a position below the wife. In Japan, concubines were registered as part of the household until 1882.

Who is the most famous geisha today? ›

Mineko Iwasaki - The Most Famous Geisha

I think that her story is amazing and inspiring, and I want to share with you some of the key points. Mineko was born in 1949 in Kyoto and was adopted by the owner of an okiya (geisha house) when she was five years old.

Is Memoirs of a geisha a true story? ›

No, it is not based on a true story. However, a real geisha, named Mineko Iwasaki, sued the author of the book because of defamation. Surprisingly, not the plot, but some characters in the book resembled some of the real characters in Mineko Iwasaki's life that she shared with the author in a private conversation.

Why do geishas have yellow teeth? ›

At the core of their traditional Japanese performance art, geishas apply distinctive white makeup, known as oshiroi, to achieve an otherworldly and ethereal appearance. This makeup symbolizes the ideal beauty and grace associated with a geisha. The stark white geisha makeup made natural teeth look yellow by contrast.

How do geishas sleep? ›

It is therefore in everyone's interest to keep the hair in immaculate condition. For this reason, a Geisha sleeps with her neck on a small wooden support or takamakura. This can cause crippling pain and sleep deprivation, and keeping the head balanced on the stand is a difficult skill to master.

What is the controversy with the geisha? ›

What was the controversy of Memoirs of a Geisha? The author of the novel was sued for defamation by Mineko Iwasaki, a Japanese geisha he interviewed for the book. The geisha claimed the author manipulated the truth and used many events from her life and added the prostitution narrative.

Do geisha girls get paid? ›

Geisha, on the other hand, receive compensation and it will depend on the amount of work they receive that is, of course, altogether dependent on their skills and popularity. Their exact salary is not widely shared but to give you an idea, it can start from $3,000 to $10,000 — and more!

What is the geisha secret about? ›

The Geisha Secret is an original dating book that mixes the ancient secrets of femininity, elegance, and intellectual and artistic achievement of Japanese Geisha adapting them to the dating needs of modern women.

What is the daily life of a geisha? ›

A typical day for Nanoha starts at 9am. There is a group dance practice at 10am, then a group lunch, followed by a short nap. By 4pm, she starts getting ready, has a light meal and heads off to her engagements by 6pm. Her night usually ends by 1am and she returns to the okiya (maiko house).

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Madonna Wisozk

Last Updated:

Views: 6571

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (48 voted)

Reviews: 95% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Madonna Wisozk

Birthday: 2001-02-23

Address: 656 Gerhold Summit, Sidneyberg, FL 78179-2512

Phone: +6742282696652

Job: Customer Banking Liaison

Hobby: Flower arranging, Yo-yoing, Tai chi, Rowing, Macrame, Urban exploration, Knife making

Introduction: My name is Madonna Wisozk, I am a attractive, healthy, thoughtful, faithful, open, vivacious, zany person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.