Anyone who is interested in Japan will have heard of geisha sooner or later. But what do geisha actually do? Based on the characters 芸 (=“Gei”, art) and 者 (=“Sha”, person), you can work out that they are a person of the arts. More specifically, they entertain guests at events and celebrations with traditional Japanese arts and performances, such as dances, music or games.

Contrary to current belief, geisha culture does not only exist in Kyoto

Geisha in training are called maiko. They bear this title until they are recognized as geisha after undergoing rigorous training. Contrary to current belief, the geisha culture does not only exist in Kyoto. Originally practiced throughout Japan, the number of geisha declined sharply after WW2.

They were once just as much a part of the cityscape in Akita City as they are today in Kyoto. A project founded in 2016 has set itself the task of reviving the geisha culture in Akita. That’s why today, far from the tourist crowds of Kyoto, you can enjoy maiko performances in an authentic setting.

The entertainment provided by the maiko can be experienced in various forms. For those who do not speak Japanese, there is an English language option to break down language barriers.

traditional arts in modern Japan

With their training as geisha, the maiko help to keep the traditional arts alive in modern Japan. A must-see on your trip through the north!