Paper Umbrellas :: Japanese Geisha

All things have a story...

Geishas are traditional female entertainers, usually of Japanese origin. They are skilled at various performing arts, such as dance, singing, the playing of instruments and are well-versed in conversation. Contrary to Western connotation, most geishas are strictly performers and do not sell themselves to men. The history of geishas stretches back to the 7th century in Japan, when they would perform for nobility and even be concubines for emperors. Geishas normally begin their training at a young age and are often asked to perform required tasks at first. This first stage of training is called “shikomi” and can last for several years.

Although some young girls were “sold” to the dwellings that housed geisha (also called “okiya” in Japanese), most were there of their own volition. It was common for the daughters of geishas to become geishas themselves. A successor geisha was known as a “atotori.” The first year of a young geisha’s life was tough and some girls could not make the cut. For example, often the most junior geisha would have to wait for the senior geisha to return from her evening out. The most junior geisha may also be asked to scrub toilets and do the work of a maid.

But all geishas in training would attend classes to build up their skills. Once they passed their “tests” they would then move on to the second level of training, called “minarai.” At this stage they no longer had to do house cleaning duties and could begin to interact with clients or guests on a basic level. The more advanced level was left to the senior geishas. The last stage of training is called “maiko” and this is basically an apprentice geisha. Maiko geishas follow senior geishas around, who act as their mentors. This final stage can last for several years or more. Here the apprentice geisha will learn the correct way of pouring tea, what to say in conversation, how to handle difficult situations and finer tips on dancing.

When the senior geishas think she is ready, the maiko geisha will be promoted to a full fledged geisha. At that point, she will be able to charge her clients at the regular going rate of a geisha and work until she wishes to retire. The most beautiful and elegant geishas were always in highest demand. Today the popularity of the geisha has declined considerably due to numerous factors. Still they exist, mostly in Japan, and remain a part of an important Japanese tradition. It is now common to see many Asian decorative pieces painted with geishas on them in tribute to these hard-working and highly skilled women.