The Timeless World of Geisha and Maiko: From Kyoto’s Tea Houses to Modern Hospitality
🌸 Introduction When people abroad hear the word geisha , they often imagine mysterious women in white makeup and colorful kimono, gracefully entertaining guests in a world hidden from ordinary life. But when—and how—did geisha culture truly begin? Far from being an ancient relic, the world of geisha ( geiko in Kyoto) and their apprentices ( maiko ) continues to flourish today, especially in Kyoto’s historic hanamachi (geisha districts). To understand their enduring allure, we need to look back to the Edo period and trace how this sophisticated tradition of art and hospitality developed. 📖 Origins of Geisha: From Tea Houses to Performance The story of geisha begins in the mid-Edo period (18th century). In Kyoto, visitors to Yasaka Shrine were served tea and sweets by women working at mizuchaya (tea houses). Gradually, some of these women began performing songs, dances, and playing instruments to entertain travelers. As demand grew, teahouses competed to attract more custo...
