“Treasures of Kyoto: Geishas and Traditions Tour” led by my amazing “With Locals” guide Ted
Treasures of Kyoto: Geishas and Traditions – A Reflection on the Tour
During my recent visit to Kyoto, I had the privilege of exploring this historic city
through a 2.5 hour guided tour led by the knowledgeable and passionate sensei
of ‘With Locals’, ‘Mr. Ted’.
His insights into Kyoto’s rich cultural tapestry, particularly its traditions surrounding geishas, provided a fascinating glimpse into the city’s history and artistry.
Kyoto’s geographical setting played a significant role in shaping its history.
Surrounded by mountains, the city was naturally protected from invasions, making it an ideal settlement for ancient inhabitants.
Two prominent rivers flow through the city center, further establishing Kyoto as a natural hub for commerce, culture, and habitation. These waterways not only facilitated transportation and trade but also contributed to the city’s strategic and cultural development.
A key highlight of the tour was the myth surrounding the origins of the geisha tradition. According to Mr. Ted, it all began with a woman named Izumo no Okuni, who initially performed as a dancer dressed as a samurai, adorned with two katana swords.
Her provocative performances and striking appearance made a significant impact at the time. She became extraordinarily popular as a dancer dressed as a samurai, sparking the beginning of what would evolve into the geisha tradition.
Her influence was profound, and she is credited with initiating the broader entertainment movement that eventually gave rise to kabuki theater.
The origins of the geisha were rooted in entertainment—serving as performers, actors, and dancers. They captivated audiences with their artistry and charm.
Interestingly, the first kabuki theater was located just across the river from the statue that marks its historical significance, illustrating how intertwined these cultural developments were in Kyoto’s early history.
Moving along the tour, we visited the main geisha district, often referred to as “Gion” or the “Geisha Street.”
Historically, this area was home to geishas, their mentors (called “okāsan” or mothers), and theaters. While many of the most famous geishas no longer reside in this neighborhood, the district remains a hub for traditional performances and training. The houses where apprentice geishas live and work who are known as ‘maiko’ and their stage names are inscribed on small shingles above their doors. These shingles vary in appearance—newer ones are bright white, indicating a brand new trainee, while older trainees have darker tones, reminiscent of the belt system used in Japanese martial arts or Brazilian JiuJitsu to denote experience levels.
