Kyoto Japan Junior Geisha Maiko – Kyoto, Japan – Maiko (apprentice Geisha) Her name is Mamehana. Here are some great travel guides for Kyoto Japan. Apprentice geisha are called “maiko” and for a woman to become a maiko she must be under 21 years of age. A woman older than 21 is considered to old to hold the position so she become a full geisha upon her initiation. Becoming a maiko before geisha benefits the woman’s profesional life and prestige. Picture credits go to the following photographer flickr.com/photos/benzies/
I love the century of tradition handed down in this well rooted highly detailed custom. The Geisha and Maiko have such elaborate exotic silk Kimono with fashionable color and design. I was maybe 8 years old when I had seen my first book that was of Japanese culture and architect, and of course sketches and photographs of geisha were through out the public library book. It was then that I became infatuated with Japan and the enriched culture. 27 years later and still I favor the art of the Geisha the Japanese culture, architecture, and history. But it was only with in the last few years that I learned of the sadly dying role of the Male Geisha I believe named Taikomochi, and I believe it will be a great loss for their culture. It would be like losing stage performance on Broadway. I truly hope that this time honored tradition gets the well needed revival and that popularity will keep this profession alive. Maybe someday I will go to Japan to see a show first hand.
Wow, thanks for sharing your awesome experience and knowledge in the Geisha area!