Kyoto Geisha

AnaIkimaru Sun Aug 23, 2009 11:31 pm

Kyoto Geisha are normally reffered to as "Geiko".

There are several steps in the career path of a Geiko:

Shikomi- A period of about 6 months or longer while the girl gets familiar with her new surroundings, takes classes, and learns about geisha culture. Also does household chores for her sisters, get assigned a geisha name, test to become accepted in the geisha life, as well be assigned an older sister to help her around.

Minarai- a three-to-six month stage when the girl takes on the appearance of an apprentice geisha with a few noticable differences- firstly wearing the long dangling obi of the maiko, but at only half the length. Their kimono are also often busy in design. They are reffered to as "sitting flowers", tat learn about ozahiki by watching.

Maiko- A stage from 5-7 years of intense training, an apprentice geisha. Maiko are the inconic players of the geisha world, especailly since they draw lots of tourism into Kyoto through geisha tours, performances, as well as Maiko Makeover studios (referred to as Maiko Henshin).

Geiko- A geisha is able to keep her title for life, unless she retires, or is forced to quit (by either financial means, or other reasons like marriage). and continues her dedication and study of the Japanese Arts throughout the length of her career.