Geisha's in Gion

Catching a glimpse of a Geisha or Maiko (apprentice Geisha) in Kyoto is a huge draw for many tourists. The numbers of true geisha are dwindling and most estimates put the number remaining in Kyoto at around 230. Most people will never catch more than a brief glimpse of a geisha as she shuffles down the street at dusk in Gion (the main Geisha district) to an appointment. However, once a year, the public can see the Geisha perform during Miyaki Odori. It's held during the month of April to coincide with the Cherry Blossoms. By pure coincidence we are here and were able to secure tickets. And what a show it was!

The kimono's were amongst the most beautiful gowns I've ever seen, so intricately detailed. The dance and music so authentic, precise, and lovely. It was truely a special performance. Unfortunately, taking pictures was strongly forbidden. We did get to take part in a tea ceremony before the performance where we were able to snap a couple of pictures, however. Elle was entranced watching the geisha perform, as were we all.

I've avoided saying this before, as I don't want to discriminate against all the other lovely ladies in the world, but Liam has developed a serious thing for Asian ladies. He goes nuts waving at them, grinning and performing. When the gorgeous geisha all came on stage dancing, singing and seemingly waving at him, Liam was beside himself. He couldn't stop grinning and waving. It was just about the cutest thing I have ever seen.

Geisha literally means "arts person" and as such they are trained for 5 years in the arts of song, dance, performance and conversation. Training (only in Kyoto) is provided at the cost of $500,000 per year! It's no wonder that the numbers are dwindling. Geisha are not prostitutes, but that's not to say that liasons don't often occur. They are hired by very wealthy businessmen to entertain them and often become supported by these men. The single most important art form for geisha to perfect is the art of conversation, listening and soothing. Japanese men, as all men, delight in the attention the women lavish upon them.

It's a secret world and very exclusive, and seeing the performance was a huge treat for us all.