A History of the Geisha

What is a geisha?

A geisha is a traditional Japanese entertainer who performs arts such as singing and dancing. They start training from a young age in the art of entertaining and often wear elaborate kimonos and makeup.

The word “geisha” means “art person,” and these women were once considered some of the most refined and cultured people in Japanese society. Are you ready to learn the complete geisha history and look inside their lives? Keep reading!

What Is a Geisha: Answered

What is a geisha? You know they’re entertainers, but when exactly did they start to appear?

Geishas first appeared in the late 1600s, although they were not as familiar or respected as they would become in later years. In the 1800s, geishas became increasingly popular, particularly in the large cities of Kyoto and Tokyo. At this time, there were many more women than men in Japan, and geishas were often hired to entertain at parties and other gatherings.

During the Meiji period (1868-1912), the role of geishas began to change. Many Japanese people became interested in Western culture, and the traditional arts of the geishas were not as popular as they once were. In addition, the Meiji government passed a law that prohibited women from selling sex, which further changed the Geisha’s role in society.

Despite these changes, some geishas continued to work throughout the Meiji period and into the 20th century. In the 1920s and 1930s, a renewed interest in traditional Japanese culture arose, and geishas again became popular (see also ‘Who Are The Most Famous Geisha In History?‘).

Today, there are still a few hundred geishas working in Japan (see also ‘15 Interesting Facts About Geisha‘). They typically work in the larger cities of Kyoto and Tokyo and often entertain at private parties and other events. While their role has changed over the years, geishas are still considered some of the most refined and cultured people in Japanese society.

Famous Geishas

Hatsumomo was one of the most famous geishas of her time. She was popular for her beauty, skill as an entertainer, and notoriously sharp tongue. Hatsumomo was also infamous for her jealous and manipulative nature, which often got her into trouble.

There was also Sayuri. She was a geisha who lived in Japan during the first half of the 20th century.

As a child, she had to overcome slavery. But eventually rose to become one of the most successful geishas in Japan. Sayuri’s story is prevalent in the novel and film Memoirs of a Geisha.

Geishas in Popular Culture

Geishas are often seen as a symbol of traditional Japanese culture and beauty. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in geishas in Japan and abroad.

This renewed interest is obvious in popular culture, with several recent films and books about geishas gaining popularity. In addition to Memoirs of a Geisha, other popular books include Snow Falling on Cedars and Sayonara. The book was later adapted into a film starring Marlon Brando.

Geishas and Japanese Art Throughout History

Geishas are also popular historically in Japanese art, with many famous painters and photographers depicting these intriguing women in their work. The Geisha is also on display in several traditional Japanese woodblock prints, known as ukiyo-e. These prints often show geishas engaged in everyday activities, such as eating and drinking or playing musical instruments.

Uncovering Geisha Myths

Geishas have been a part of Japanese culture for centuries, often shrouded in mystery. In the Western world, the word “geisha” is often used interchangeably with “prostitute,” but this is a very offensive misconception.

Geishas are not prostitutes; they are highly skilled entertainers who provide companionship and perform traditional Japanese dances and music. Although geishas may sometimes engage in sexual relationships, this is not their primary purpose.

The vast majority of geishas are women, but there are also male geishas known as “taikomochi.” If you ever find yourself in Japan, be sure to treat the geishas with respect – you wouldn’t want to offend them!

Years of Training

Geishas are renowned for their grace, beauty, and skills in traditional Japanese arts. But many people don’t realize that becoming a geisha is a years-long rigorous training process.

In order to achieve the level of perfection that is expected of them, geishas must learn how to play a variety of traditional instruments, sing, dance, and engage in conversation. They also undergo strict etiquette training so that they always know the proper way to behave in any situation.

All of this training takes years to complete, but the results are truly stunning. When you see a geisha perform, you are witnessing the result of centuries of tradition and artistry.

Where Can You See Geishas?

If you’re interested in seeing geishas, there are a few ways to do so. The easiest way is to visit large cities like Kyoto or Tokyo. There you can find geishas working in the traditional entertainment districts.

You can also sometimes see Geisha at public events, such as festivals or parades. However, it’s important to remember that geishas are not public figures, and they should not be photographed or disturbed without their permission.

The best way to see geishas is to attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or another event where they are performing. This will allow you to see them up close and appreciate their artistry.

Special Banquets and Festivals

What type of banquets do geishas entertain at? These can be private parties or more public gatherings, such as festivals or parades.

At a banquet, geishas typically serve tea and light snacks to the guests. They may also perform traditional Japanese dances or music.

Geisha Japanese Fashion

Geisha Japanese fashion is all about tradition and color. Geishas typically wear distinctive white face makeup and brightly colored kimonos. The colors and patterns of their kimonos often indicate their rank and experience level.

For example, a maiko ( apprentice geisha) will usually wear a colorful kimono with an elaborate pattern, while an experienced geisha will typically opt for a more subdued look.

In addition to their kimonos, geishas also wore stylish obi (sashes), zori (sandals), and geta (wooden clogs). Today, geishas continue to dress in traditional clothing when they perform at banquets and other events.

However, they also have the option of wearing more modern attire when they are not working. Regardless of what they are wearing, geishas always strive to look their best and exude an air of refinement and grace. 

Geisha Lifestyle and Customs

The geisha lifestyle involves following a strict code of conduct that prohibits them from engaging in sexual relationships. One of the most important rules for Geisha is that they cannot have children. This is because having children would interfere with their ability to work and entertain.

As a result, Geisha typically adopt daughters who will carry on the tradition. While the life of a geisha may seem restrictive, it is also a unique and fascinating way of life. However, it should be noted that not all women who enter the geisha lifestyle do so of their own free will.

In the past, some women were sold into geishas by their families as a way to make money. Thankfully, this is no longer common practice. Geishas today choose to enter the profession voluntarily.

Most Fascinating Geisha Traditions

There are many different aspects of geisha culture that have fascinated people for centuries. Here are some of the most intriguing traditions that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

For instance, ichisumi is the art of tattooing. In traditional geisha culture, it was customary for young girls to receive tattooing on their necks and chests.

The traditional tattoos serve as a sign of their membership in the geisha community. While this practice is no longer as common, it is still considered to be an important part of the geisha tradition.

Miyabi is the traditional quest for beauty. Geishas are popular for their dedication to beauty and elegance.

They spend hours perfecting their skills in makeup, hairstyling, and clothing. This attention to detail is what sets them apart from other members of Japanese society.

Okiya are traditionally responsible for training new geishas, providing them with lodging and clothing, and introducing them to potential clients. It’s an honorable position to hold and maintain. The relationship between an okiya and its geishas is one of great trust and respect.

Finally, shikomi is the apprenticeship process. To become a geisha, girls must undergo a rigorous apprenticeship process known as Nishikori. This training can last for several years and includes everything from learning proper etiquette to mastering the traditional arts of dance and music.

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