The art of geisha: discover their true history and culture

With their signature white makeup, elaborate kimonos, and graceful movements, geisha embody an art form that has endured hundreds of years. Its history and cultural impact are much more complex than its outward appearance might suggest.

The term “geisha” (芸者), which literally translates as “person of the arts,” first appeared in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868).

Contrary to what many might imagine, and this may be surprising, the first geishas were men, known as taikomochi either hōkan. These entertainment professionals fulfilled a role similar to that of European court jesters and offered their skills in storytelling, music and dance.

It was in the mid-18th century when women began to play this role and, over time and thanks to their popularity, they ended up outnumbering their male counterparts.

female geishas u onna geisha They soon became central entertainment figures in Japan’s pleasure districts, such as Yoshiwara in Edo (present-day Tokyo) and Gion in Kyoto. These women were not only artists, but also masters of etiquette and conversation, skills considered essential in Japanese society.

Rigorous training

Becoming a geisha is not an easy task. Traditionally, young women who aspired to this profession entered a okiya (geisha house) from an early age. His training began as shikomia stage in which they performed household chores while learning the basics of karyūkai (“world of flowers and willows”), a term that refers to the universe of geishas.

After an initial learning period, the candidates became minarai and they entered at a time during which they observed an older sister (onee-san) at events and banquets.

Finally, they reached the range of maikoan apprentice geisha. As maikohoned their skills in dance, music, singing, and social etiquette, while actively participating in entertainment activities.

The training culminated with the ceremony erikae (literally, “change of collar”), in which the red collar of the apprentice kimono was replaced by a white collar, marking his transition to professional geisha. This process could take several years and required extraordinary discipline and dedication.

The arts of the geisha

A geisha’s repertoire includes a wide range of artistic and cultural skills. One of the most iconic skills may be playing the shamisena three-stringed instrument. They also master other instruments such as koto (Japanese harp) and the taiko (drum).

In addition, geishas perform traditional Japanese dances through delicate and expressive movements, accompanied by music and narration.

On the other hand, we said that conversation and etiquette are considered two of the most valued aspects of geisha work. These women had to have the ability to maintain elegant conversations and liven up the atmosphere in meetings.

Geishas are also often experts in the sadō (tea ceremony). In this art, priority is given to the aesthetics of the presentation and the movements in the preparation of the tea, as well as the more spiritual side of the ceremony and meticulous attention to detail.

Myths and misunderstandings

One of the biggest misunderstandings about geishas is confusing them with courtesans or sex workers. Although geishas worked in the same districts as courtesans during the Edo period, their functions were completely different. While the courtesans offered sexual services, the geishas dedicated themselves exclusively to artistic and cultural entertainment.

This misconception was reproduced abroad during the American occupation of Japan after World War II, when some women who offered sexual services to foreign soldiers mistakenly called themselves “geishas.” This inaccurate association persists in some Western representations, but does not reflect the reality of these traditional artists.

Geishas in the modern era

The geisha boom peaked in the early 20th century, with tens of thousands of women practicing the profession. However, factors such as industrialization, social changes, and World War II contributed to a drastic decline in their numbers. Today, it is estimated that there are fewer than 1,000 active geishas left in the entire country.

Despite this marked decline, certain districts such as Gion in Kyoto and Kagurazaka in Tokyo continue to be centers of activity for geisha. Furthermore, tourism has been fundamental in the preservation of this tradition, since it enables and stimulates the organization of cultural events and presentations so that visitors can experience the world of geishas.

Currently, to adapt to modern dynamics, some geishas have begun to use social networks to share aspects of their daily lives and connect in an innovative way with a broader audience.