Glimpse of a Geiko

JAPAN | Saturday, 8 November 2014 | Views [2415] | View Smaller Image

Entertaining guests is a Geiko's or Maiko's job. Knowing and mastering a number of games to lighten the mood of a tense business meeting is only a small art the Maiko's have to learn. As conversation continues Toshisumi will entertain herself with one of her games. If she senses a lull in proceedings or if tempers are running high she will interject and begin playing a game with a guest. A few drinks will follow before the guests are allowed back to their conversations or back to business.

Tags: geisha, geiko, japan, tradition, yellow, culture, traditional, maiko, kyoto, arts

To welcome and relax her clients Toshisumi performs a short welcoming dance. This short performance keeps her guests entertained whilst the tea house staff prepare and deliver everybody their drinks. Each Maiko will practice one form of dance and each form is a narration of an ancient Japanese tale. Only once the Maiko has perfected a dance is she allowed to move onto a more detailed and evocative dance.

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A Maiko or Geiko's job does not end if a guest needs to go to the bathroom. The Maiko is required to converse with the client as he carries out his business. She must make him feel welcome and privileged at all times. This also means she must monitor proceedings in the room. A Maiko will usually position herself so she can ensure everyone is having a great time. If conversation dwindles whilst she is occupied she will order up a new round of drinks. She will suggest a game for the clients to play while they wait for everybody to return to the room.

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Glimpse of a Geiko

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