Who is a Geisha?

A geisha is a traditional Japanese female entertainer who is skilled in performing various Japanese arts such as classical music, dance, and games. These women undergo rigorous training, often starting from a young age. Geisha undergo rigorous training, often starting from a young age, where they learn to play musical instruments like the shamisen, practice the arts of tea ceremony or flower arrangement, and master classical Japanese dance and singing.

Geisha are easily recognized by their distinctive appearance, which includes wearing elaborate kimonos, traditional hairstyles adorned with intricate hairpieces, and distinctive makeup characterized by white face paint and red and black accents.

These performers primarily entertain guests by engaging in conversation, performing traditional music and dance, and playing traditional Japanese games, often in teahouses or at private events. The role of a geisha is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and history, symbolizing grace, beauty, and artistic proficiency.

What about Maiko?

A Maiko is an apprentice geisha. The word “maiko” means “dancing child,” highlighting their focus on mastering traditional dance, music, and the other arts essential to their role. In modern Japan, only girls who have finished junior high school (at least 14 years old), can officially be named a Maiko!

Unlike full-fledged geisha, maiko wear a more ornate and youthful attire, including longer obi (sashes) that drape down their backs or are elaborately tied in the back. They also typically have bright and elaborate hairpins, which include a variety of seasonal flowers. The most distinctive feature, however, are the long-flowing sleeves of their kimono.

The journey from Maiko to Geisha typically lasts around five years, during which they women hone their skills and gradually take on more responsibilities in entertaining guests with grace, poise, and artistic talent. The Maiko stage is a vital period of learning and growth, preserving the rich cultural traditions of Japanese entertainment.

Geigi? Geisha? What’s the difference!?

Simply – geography.

Geisha(芸者)is the word that has traversed the world. The characters literally translates as “person of the arts”. However, in Japan this designation is typically used only in Tokyo and Kanto region.

In Kyoto, the same performers were known as Geiko (芸妓). Slightly different characters were used, although the meaning remained largely the same. In other areas Geigi (芸妓) became the accepted pronunciation of the same characters.

Conclusion

Geisha are fully trained female entertainers, who perform in Tokyo or Kanto reagion.

Geiko are also fully trained female entertainers, but they perform in Kyoto.

Geigi perform in more country-side regions, but are also fully trained.

Maiko are girls and young women who are undergoing training to become full Geisha.

Furumachi Geigi in Niigata (Chie:千笑-san)

What about in Niigata?

Historically, Niigata’s culture has been significantly influenced by Kyoto, largely due to the flow of influence from Sado Island, a key port on the Kyoto-Hokkaido trade route. Consequently, Geigi or Geiko are the term that is used instead of Geisha.

This reflects the historical connection rather than a preference for Kyoto over Tokyo.

Conversely, there are over 20 highly skilled Geigi and Maiko currently practicing in Niigata! Don’t miss the chance to have a private performance.

Jenya Yuss came to Japan in 2015 and has not left since. She has lived in Nagoya, Ishikawa and finally settled in Niigata. She loves to be in nature and enjoys all types of outdoor activities. She likes to write about history and culture, but really would tackle any topic!