"So you want to spot a geisha?": Geisha Spotting in Kyoto
A geisha or not a geisha? Geisha are one of the most iconic symbols of Japan, found in Japanese literature, history, and in accounts of Japan from all over the world. They are traditional Japanese female entertainers, skilled in conversation, dance, classical music, and games. While their numbers may have dwindled over the past century, the vibrancy of their culture is still very much alive. For those visiting Kyoto, the center of the geisha world, that also means a chance to gaze at one one beyond the pages of a book or hanging scroll, and see a geisha in person.
With many geisha entertaining patrons at teahouses within specific districts of Kyoto, if one is at the right place at the right time, it is possible to spot one. As many of their appointments occur in the evening, over dinner or shortly afterwards, many geishas move around at dusk time, especially on Fridays and weekends. The ideal places to spot a geisha are Ponto-cho, at the Shijo-dori end, and the section of the Gion district between Shijo-dori end and Kennin-ji Temple. Another great area to see a geisha making their way to a meeting is Higashiyama, a neighborhood known for its traditional teahouses.
Here’s a couple of more tips that may be of use during your pursuit:
- Many geishas do not accept requests to take pictures with tourists as they often have strict appointment times. As a result, if you would like to take pictures, remember to not block their path to get a better angle.
- Keep in mind the popularity of “geisha parlors” in Kyoto which provide clothes and makeup services for those who want to feel like a geisha for a day. Taking note of accessories, as well as the quality of makeup—especially around the neck area—are ways to ensure that what you are seeing is an actual geisha.
- To tell the difference between a geiko (fully-fledged geisha) and a maiko (geisha in training), look at their kimonos and hair. While maiko’s kimonos are more colorful and their hair adorned with elaborate hairpins (kanzashi), geiko’s kimonos are often plainer, and their hair done less extravagantly.
- While it may take more than just a few minutes to spot a geisha once you arrive in the proper area, you can use this time to admire the beauty of the neighborhoods’ traditional architecture.
Seeing a geisha, whether it be a geiko or a maiko, is a truly one-of-a-kind pleasure, and an experience that only be had in Japan.
Best of luck with geisha spotting!
Eri Lin
You may also be interested in
Article by Ayushi Kalyani
Spot Maiko and Geisha at Setsubun in Kyoto
Who are Geisha and Maiko?
Geisha: The word divides to Gei: Art and Sha: person, literally meaning the person of arts. Geisha are the women who have mastered the
Article by Sonja B
Maiko & Geisha makeover experience in Kyoto
untitled-377.jpg 3.1 MBMaiko & Geisha makeover experience in Kyoto
Many of you might be thinking about the Maiko or Geisha makeover while in Kyoto. I wante
Article by Sara López
Gokagai: Discover the Kyoto Hanamachi!
Hanamachi (花街) , or flower town. The Geisha districts. These are the districts where Maiko and Geisha live and were the most Okiya ( Geisha Houses ) and Ochaya
Article by Lin Baker
Luxuruious Geiko (Geisha) Photoshoot in Kyoto
If you think of Kyoto, you're likely to also think of Geisha (or Geiko, as they are called in Kyoto). There are many studios in Kyoto and other cities that allo
Sight in Ishikawa
Ochaya Shima
Located in the Higashi Chaya District, this former geisha house is considered a national treasure. Visitors can experience the living conditions of geisha durin
Article by Tokyo Creative
Maiko, Geiko, Geiki, Geisha and Oiran, Oh My! What’s the Difference Between Them?
In this article we give you a breakdown of the difference between a maiko, geiko, geiki, geisha and a oiran is and see AkiDearest dress up as an oiran!