Japan's Geisha

 

This week we are still in Japan, and I am going to share a bit about the Geisha.

Geisha originated in Japan during the Edo period as highly trained entertainers skilled in traditional arts—not prostitutes, as often misunderstood. The first geisha were men, but women soon became the dominant figures in the profession.

The earliest geisha-like figures were saburuko, female entertainers during the 7th century. Some performed dances and music, while others offered companionship or sexual services.

The modern concept of geisha emerged in Kyoto’s pleasure quarters. Initially, male performers entertained guests with music and storytelling. By the mid-18th century, women took over the role, specializing in refined arts like shamisen (three-stringed instrument), nihon-buyo (classical dance), and sadō (tea ceremony).

The Geisha culture thrived in Kyoto and Osaka, between 1688 and 1704, these women became cultural icons, versed in literature, poetry, and etiquette. They were distinct from courtesans, focusing solely on artistic performance.

Aspiring geisha trained in okiya (boarding houses) under senior geisha. Young apprentices, called maiko, learned through observation and practice before debuting as full geisha.

Between 1868 & 1912 Western influence challenged traditional roles, but geisha adapted by blending modern elements with heritage. Their popularity persisted, especially in Kyoto.

After WW11 during Allied Occupation abolished state-sanctioned prostitution, leading to confusion about geisha roles. Geisha reaffirmed their identity as artists, not sex workers.

 Today’s Geisha are mostly found in Kyoto’s hanamachi (geisha districts), they continue to perform at private banquets (ozashiki) and public festivals. Their appearance—white makeup, elaborate kimono, and traditional hairstyles—remains iconic.

They are now seen as custodians of Japanese performing arts. Some schools, like the Inoue school in Kyoto, teach exclusive dance styles such as kyo-mai, passed down only within the geisha community.