 | Kyoto Gion (Geisha district) Reviews | Tips 1 - 10 of 55 |  |
 | |  |  | Gion (Geisha district): Traditional Performances at Gion Corner | Tip Rating:   |  |  | |  |
Mini demonstrations of the tea ceremony, flower arrangement, court music, kyogen comedy, traditional Kyoto dance, and bunraku (puppet drama) are condensed into one flowing performance at Gion Corner twice nightly (7:40pm and 8:40pm) from March through November. Those pressed for time may find this the best use of a single evening (1 hour). Personally, I find the bunraku very interesting. The puppet was brought to life by 3 skillful puppeteers (dressed and covered in black from head to toe). Usually, 3 puppeteers will handle 1 puppet, 1 controls the head, 1 controls the hands and 1 controls the legs. It was rather mersmerising as this kind of puppet shows have minimal "language barrier". Just go for the experience if you do have have the luxury of staying long in Kyoto. Fee : 3000 Yen Leave a Comment Address: Gion CornerPhone: 561-1119Directions: Off Hanami-koji, next to Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theater
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| | | | Gion (Geisha district): Geishas and Maikos | Tip Rating: | | | | |
Geisha originates from Kyoto. Who are they? Geishas are dancers who have to go through rigourous training. Before they become professional, they are known as Maiko, i.e. apprentic Geisha. NOTE : Geishas/Maikos are not prostitutes. Geisha girls and women are trained in a number of traditional skills; Japanese ancient dance, singing, playing instruments (a three stringed instrument called shamisen is an essential instrument), flower arrangement, wearing kimono, tea ceremony, calligraphy, conversation, alcohol serving manners, and more. Geisha girls and women are talented Japanese women who patiently go through extensive training. Even after becoming a geisha girl, they keep improving their skills by taking many lessons. Interestingly, their kimono and make-up is very elaborate. They are powdered white on their faces and their hairdo is uniquely "folded" like leaves. Their kimonos are usually "revealing" at the back of their neck. When I was at the Gino Corner one evening, I was lucky to be able to peep into a traditional restaurant where Geishas/Maikos were performing. A Japanese passer-by told us that we were lucky to observe that and she also mentioned that a Maiko is usually very young and Geisha is generally older. It is very expensive to engage a Geisha/Maiko. However, to catch a glimpse of them, just head towards the Gion Area and you will them there. Leave a Comment Address: Gion AreaWebsite: http://gojapan.about.com/cs/japanesegeisha/a/geisha1.htm
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