Yesterday, we concluded our marathon walking tour in the Gion District of Kyoto. That is where the geishas go to school to learn how to perform their dances and continue the mystique of this culture.
Geishas are traditional Japanese female entertainers who act as hostesses. Their skills include performing various arts such as classical music, flower arranging, tea ceremonies, (Japanese fan) dances, games and conversation.
According to our tour guide Amy, an apprentice geisha in training (under age 20) is called a maiko (she pronounced it more like “Michael”). They wear much more hair ornamentation and their kimonos have longer sleeves, the better to beckon in their clients.
Over age 20 are called geikos (gekkos). Their kimonos have shorter sleeves, and they have far less hair embellishment.
In the Gion District you can attend a restaurant where you are served and entertained at dinner by these young women. All restaurants are by reservation only, and you only know it’s a restaurant by the Japanese signage next to the door, which tells how many maikos and geikos they have working at the establishment.
Although Amy is in her mid-50s, she considers herself a geiko, and is learning the art of coquettish fan dancing, helping to keep the tradition alive.
She told us about a live one-hour “show” at Gion Corner that is offered every night of the week. It demonstrates the tea ceremony, the flower arranging, and the classical music that is taught at the schools.
I managed to figure out the map, and the bus routes, and Miriam and I took a bus back to this area on Monday night to attend the show. I was a little disappointed that there were no fan dancers, but there was a comedy skit done by men, and some interesting drum music.
We both learned a great deal about the cultural traditions here in Kyoto.