The answer to who is the boss of a Geisha depends on who or what type of Geisha you are referring to. In traditional Japanese culture, a Geisha is an entertainer who is trained to be a master of a range of arts, such as music, playing traditional instruments, dancing, conversation, and formal etiquette.
It is not typically the case that a Geisha has an actual “boss,” as they are typically independent contractors or apprentices who may be affiliated with a particular okiya (geisha house) that provides support, training, and business connections.
In fact, the okiya system is one of the primary structures that have maintained the Geisha way of life in Japan.
However, there are certain cases in which a Geisha may be employed by a particular person, such as a grand Kabuki theater in larger cities like Tokyo and Osaka. In this case, the theater would be considered the boss of the Geisha in the sense that they would be the employer—responsible for setting performance expectations and providing a salary.
In this case, the Geisha would be required to adhere to their employer’s standards for their performance.
At their core, Geisha are self-employed, professional entertainers who usually practice their craft independently. As such, it is not really a direct answer to the question of who their boss is. However, depending on the specific situation, there may be a person or organization that could be considered the ultimate authority for a particular Geisha’s work.
What is the top geisha called?
The top geisha is traditionally referred to as the okaa-san (‘mother’ or ‘grandmother’) of the geisha house. This title is bestowed upon a geisha who has demonstrated expertise and experience in the various aspects of her craft and is viewed as a leader in her field.
She is both respected and revered by her peers and is responsible for teaching and guiding less experienced geisha. She not only trains new geisha and oversees their growth and development, but also provides career advice and guidance for all.
The okaa-san is the face of the geisha house, and is held to the highest standards of professionalism, etiquette, decorum and poise.
Is oiran higher than geisha?
Oiran are considered to be higher in rank than geisha in Japan. Oiran were high-ranking courtesans who were extremely expensive and served only the wealthiest of customers. They were highly skilled in various forms of entertainment, including music, dance, and conversation.
Geisha, on the other hand, were more affordable, providing customers with local culture and entertainment. While both oiran and geisha had similar roles, oiran served wealthy customers while geisha served all levels of society.
Additionally, oiran usually had to be married with children, whereas geisha were not required to be married and typically lived in living quarters provided by their teahouse. Therefore, oiran were seen as higher in status than geisha and were more expensive to hire.
What do geisha do after retirement?
When a geisha retires, she usually pursues another profession that fits her experience and skills. The career choices of retired geisha vary depending on the individual. Some may decide to open their own shops, such as a teahouse, café, or clothing boutique.
Others may teach the traditional performing arts of dance and music, or work in event planning or hospitality.
A few may decide to work in the tourism industry, giving visitors a unique cultural experience. Many retired geisha become advisors to young geisha and maiko, providing valuable guidance and training them in the art forms.
This is done in a formal structure, with the retired geisha becoming a kind of mentor. In addition, retired geisha are often hired to assist with marketing and promotions for modern-day geisha and maiko, giving them the skills and knowledge needed to secure shows and public appearances.
Retired geisha are also seen as diplomats and representatives of Japanese culture, as many are invited overseas to share their experiences through exhibitions and performances. By doing this, retired geisha help introduce and maintain traditional Japanese culture to the global audience.
The life of a geisha is never truly finished; even after retirement, these women continue to play an integral role in the community.
Can an American be a geisha?
No, an American cannot be a geisha. Geishas are highly trained Japanese women who have learned a wide range of traditional Japanese arts, including music, dance, storytelling, and art. They have to learn the strict codes of etiquette, intricate make-up techniques, and traditional Japanese language.
Becoming a geisha also requires the consent and financial backing of a geisha house. Geishas are not allowed to be married, and to maintain their high standing within the geisha world, they must keep up with their studies and performances in the public eye.
Due to the fact that the geisha world has different standards and codes of etiquette, foreign nationals are not allowed to become geishas. It is part of the geisha tradition to maintain a certain level of secrecy throughout their career, and foreigners do not have the same cultural identity within the geisha world.
In order to maintain their presence, geishas have had to uphold certain customs and practices, so allowing a foreign person to become a geisha would disrupt the formation of the geisha tradition.
How long does it take a geisha to get ready?
It can take a geisha anywhere from three to four hours to get ready as part of the traditional process of becoming a geisha. This includes the various intricate steps such as the application of the traditional white make-up, kimono robes and obi sash, hairstyling, and specific accessories.
The entire process is long and tedious and must be done carefully, as it is a form of an art. The final result is a stunningly beautiful geisha ready to perform and entertain guests.
How does a Geisha become a full geisha?
Becoming a full Geisha is a long process that involves many stages. Generally, it takes around five years to become a fully licensed Geisha.
The first step is to train to become an apprentice Geisha, or “Maiko”. This process begins with joining an Okiya (Geisha house) where aspiring Geisha live and serve an atelier. During the Maiko stage, an apprentice will take lessons from experienced Geisha in traditional etiquette, dance, music, calligraphy, and how to wear Kimono and other accessories.
She will also learn how to perform shamisen and other traditional Japanese music instruments.
Once she has mastered the skills of a Maiko and reached the end of her apprenticeship, the Geisha will be officially inaugurated into the Geisha community. This usually takes place when she reaches the age of 18.
After the inauguration, the new Geisha will be able to take bookings and begin working. However, to become a full Geisha, a special permission must be granted by the head of the Geisha association. This permission helps to differentiate long-term, full-time Giesha from casual performers.
In order to get this permission, the newly inaugurated Geisha needs to show a long-term commitment to the profession and demonstrate a refined sense of artistry through her performances.
Once the Geisha has proven her commitment and skill, she will be awarded her licence and become a full-fledged Geisha. This stage of the process marks a huge career milestone, as the Geisha can now take on more complex roles within the Geisha community.
As part of the full Geisha process, the Geisha will also obtain her own name, known as a Geigi name. Her name will reflect her artistic talent and personality, and represent the Geisha in all of her work.
Becoming a full Geisha is an incredibly rewarding and prestigious process, and it takes a huge commitment of time and energy to reach this level.
Can you be a geisha without being Japanese?
No, it is difficult to become a geisha without being of Japanese descent. Geisha culture dates back centuries in Japan and remains a significant part of Japanese culture, even today. To become a geisha one must pass through a process of rigorous training, called okiya.
This includes the learning of traditional Japanese arts, such as music, dance, calligraphy and tea ceremony. It is also important for geisha to learn about the intricate rules and customs of etiquette, which are still observed in modern-day Japan.
All of this training and knowledge is best passed on from within the community of Japanese people and is not taught outside of that realm. Additionally, the practices of a geisha are a representation of Japanese beauty and grace and so, it is difficult to comprehend by those who are not of Japanese descent.
Thus, while it is possible to appreciate geisha culture without being Japanese, it is difficult to become a geisha without a strong knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture.
Can you still become a geisha?
Yes, it is still possible to become a geisha in Japan. For many centuries, geishas have been essential to Japanese culture as professional female entertainers, musicians, and dancers. Traditionally, a geisha will begin her training after being chosen by a geisha house and attending an okiya, an Oiran dochu, or an apprenticeship program.
During their training, geishas will learn proper etiquette, traditional music and dance, conversation, and the ancient art of conversation, and the ancient art of entertaining.
Though it is still possible to become a geisha in modern-day Japan, it is much more uncommon than it once was. Geishas now practice many of the same traditional customs and skills as in the past, but offer more modern services.
In recent years, becoming a geisha has become an increasingly popular career choice, for those looking for a fulfilling, traditionally-rooted job in Japan.
It should be noted, however, that becoming a geisha is a long and difficult process. Aspiring geishas must first go through the traditional training period, in which they learn the traditional arts and social skills required to entertain and entertain in a professional manner.
After they have completed their training and received their official certification, they must practice their craft to perfect their artistry.
Though the traditional process of becoming a geisha is still available in Japan, many modern-day geishas have taken a different path, taking jobs as entertainers at restaurants, nightclubs, and bars.
Whatever the path, becoming a geisha is a dream for many, and offers an experience like no other.
Were there any male geishas?
No, there were no male geishas. Traditionally, geishas were high-class entertainers in Japan and were always female. Geishas provided entertainment for people in their homes and at special events and gatherings, including music, singing, dancing, conversation, and general aesthetic pleasure.
Geishas were also able to create a unique and thrilling atmosphere, which is why they were so popular and highly sought after. Although male geishas were never formally created, there are some records of male actors and entertainers impersonating geishas, in order to bolster their performance.
This was popular in the Edo period (1603 – 1868). Recently, the concept of the “male geisha” has been gaining attention, however these modern male geishas are not traditionally trained or employed as geishas, but are instead male models or male entertainers who have adopted the geisha aesthetic.
Are geisha and oiran the same?
No, geisha and oiran are not the same. Geisha are traditional Japanese female entertainers who are trained in the art of performing a variety of traditional Japanese arts including music and dance. Oiran on the other hand, were high-ranking courtesans in Japan who were highly skilled in many aspects of entertainment including conversation, dancing, playing instruments and more.
Oiran often held formal reception parties and required guests to offer gifts in exchange for their services. The two were traditionally seen as separate roles and different traditions. When the legalisation of prostitution was enforced during the Meiji period, oiran underwent several changes and their prominence decreased; however their traditional style of entertainment is still highly respected today.
Geisha on the other hand, continue to work as independent female entertainers.
Who is the male performer of geisha?
The male performer of geisha is known as a “Tayuu”, and he is the master of ceremonies and plays the leading role at banquets, parties, and other events. They are expected to be highly educated and well-versed in the arts, poetry and calligraphy, and often come from a long line of tayuu.
They are characterized by their long-sleeved white kimono and mask-like face paint. Unlike female geishas, tayuu neither dance nor play music, instead working solely as conversationalists and entertainers.
Can geishas get pregnant?
Yes, geishas can get pregnant. In fact, sex between geishas and their clients is an accepted part of the job. However, it’s important to note that these encounters are rarely seen as leading to a relationship or a permanent connection between the geisha and the client.
As such, geishas may be more burdened with the responsibility of preventing unwanted pregnancies or seeking out abortion services if they don’t wish to carry a baby to term.
Haruko, a former geisha, notes that the consequence of becoming pregnant as a geisha could be dire, as it could be seen as a major disruption to one’s “status, honor, and reputation”. In many cases, depending on the geisha’s okiya (the house where she works or lives), a geisha found to be pregnant may be forced to retire.
Given this, geishas are expected to make discreet arrangements in regards to contraception and family planning. In some cases, the clients may cover the cost of the contraception. Alternatively, geishas can access contraception at their local clinic or hospital.
In Japan, the morning-after pill is available over-the-counter with a doctor’s prescription obtained from the clinic. Under no circumstance should a woman be shamed or discouraged from accessing contraception.
Although geishas can get pregnant, it is important to recognize the realities and stigma associated to the profession as well as respect the autonomy over a geisha’s body and her choice regarding her reproductive rights.
Who is the most famous geisha in history?
The most famous geisha in history is probably Mineko Iwasaki. She was a renowned geisha from Kyoto, Japan, and held the prestigious title of “grand maiko” at the time of her retirement. She is most famously known for her autobiography, Geisha, A Life, which chronicled her life and career as a geisha.
In her autobiography, she refuted a number of stereotypes and misconceptions about the traditional art of being a geisha and revealed the truth about the intensely secretive and often misunderstood world of the Japanese geisha.
She was also praised for her advocacy of women’s rights, a cause she was very passionate about. In 2021, her life was adapted into a Netflix original film titled, Mineko’s Night Market.
Do geisha girls get paid?
Yes, geisha girls do get paid. However, because they are trained to provide entertainment and hospitality, they are not traditionally paid a wage. They may be paid a “mizuage”, a traditional fee paid to a geisha house for providing services, as well as tips.
Geisha also have a variety of other ways to make money, such as selling their own art and crafts, running their own private businesses, or even singing and dancing at private parties and festivals. The amount of money that geisha can make depends largely on their skill, contacts, and reputation, and they are often treated as celebrities within their communities.