The Geisha: iconic symbol of Japan

Geisha's (also geiko or geigi). Elegant moving women in traditional Japanese kimonos, faces delicately white painted, gracefully gliding across tatami mats with mystic beauty. These thoughts frequently come to mind when embodying the image of one of Japan's timeless icon. Cultural influences, such as the film industry in Hollywood, have both shaped and partially biased the perception of a Geisha (e.g. "Memoirs of a Geisha"), oftentimes associated with prostitution/ a courtesan (tayuu/oiran). Reality, however, reveals a totally different historical rooting, which in most cases, is far beyond of what most people think.

I don't know whether you know that... the first Geisha were men!

The first Geisha (taikomochi) Picture source AI generated

Now, here comes reality. Looking back into the 13th century, the very first geisha, known at that time as "taikomochi", were in fact men performing at court as entertainers. Taikomochi obtained a double-role: they served as advisors for the ruling emperor, whilst at the same time provided general entertainment for the imperial court.

In the 16th century, taikomochi left their advisory role behind and focused solely onto exclusive performances of art, including story telling, dancing, singing, and much more.

Onna Geisha Picture source AI-generated

Women were not considered in becoming a geisha until the 17th century, in which time they were referred to as "onna geisha" (= "female geisha"). It was only by the 1750th when women outnumbered men, not only in performing arts but also in setting fashion trends serving as role models for society. Consequently, the name "onna geisha" simply transferred to "geisha". Taking a closer look at the word geisha reveals its true essence: gei means “art,” and sha translates to “person.” Together, they form “a person of the arts”—a title that perfectly reflects the role of a Geisha. Beyond their elegance and poise, Geishas are devoted artists dedicated to preserving and performing traditional Japanese culture. Their craft is mastered through years of rigorous training, beginning at a young age under the guidance of a senior Geisha within an okiya (Geisha house), where discipline, artistry, and tradition intertwine. Further names used to describe Japanese guardians of art and culture in different dialects refer to geiko (deriving from the old Japanese Kansai dialect, which formerly served as the national language in the geisha capital Kyoto) and geigi (mainly to be found in Kanazawa & Fukuoka).

Becoming a Geisha: training process & performance skills

Becoming a geisha starts with apprentices called "maiko".

"Mai" means "dance", whereas "ko" literally translates into "child"; so that the combination refers to a "dancing child". Usually, the training starts quite early in a woman's teenager years (mostly between 15 - 20 years). In order to learn and grow, these women join a so-called okiya ("geisha house"), guided by the mentorship of a senior geisha. Training matters can take up to several years until perfection and combine a wide range of mastering traditional Japanese arts, including the ability to play Shamisen, dancing & singing, poetry & calligraphy, conversation etiquette and hosting a tea ceremony.

Maiko vs. Geisha: differences in outer appearance

The differentiation between a maiko and a geisha is quite distinctive and easy to detect:

Maiko vs. Geisha Picture source AI-generated

A Maiko, or apprentice Geisha, will wear bright, play- and colourful kimonos with long sleeves (furisode), vibrant accessoires, decorated hairstyles with seasonal ornaments (kanzashi). She wears high wooden sandals (okobo) and distinctive white makeup with red and pink hues, black accents around the eyes, plus a bare neck uncovering two painted lines as a symbol of youth.

A Geisha, in contrast, embodies refined maturity. Her kimono is subtler, reflecting elegant patterns and muted tones. Her hairstyle is much simpler, often consisting of a wig, without elaborate decorations, such as to be found on Maiko's. Sandals worn will be flatter (zori) and makeup more natural, sometimes even not using a white coverage at all.

Meeting a "real" Geisha in today's Japan: illusion or possibility?

Today, encountering a true Geisha has become a rare and special experience. It’s estimated that only around a thousand traditional Geishas remain across Japan. Your best chance to see one is at an authentic tea ceremony or a kaiseki dinner in Gion (Kyoto) or Yoshiwara (Tokyo), where this refined art still quietly thrives.

Kyoto, once the heart of Japan’s Geisha culture, is home to several historic hanamachi (Geisha districts) such as Gion, Pontocho, and Kamishichiken. Visitors can witness their elegance during seasonal performances like the Cherry Blossom Dance in Gion or the Kyo Odori in Miyagawacho. Some cultural programs also offer opportunities to learn about or even interact with a Geisha in a respectful setting.

If you’re lucky enough to spot one gracefully walking through Gion’s narrow streets, remember—photographing them without permission is considered deeply disrespectful. Instead, take a moment to simply admire the living tradition they represent.

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