Enhancing the Authentic Experience of Geisha Entertainment in Kagurazaka, Tokyo
Understanding the unique terminology commonly used by geisha can enhance your enjoyment of an evening with them. In this article, we’ll explain terms like “Tachikata,” “Jikata,” and “Hanadai.”
Ozashiki Odori (Dance)
Enjoy traditional dances and songs performed by geisha in the Ozashiki (tatami-matted reception room). It’s considered proper etiquette in the Ozashiki to cease conversation and dining to appreciate the performance momentarily. Remember to politely ask for permission before taking photographs.
Tachikata and Jikata
The entertainment presented during the gathering is composed of two roles: the “Tachikata” (dancers) and the “Jikata” (accompanists). Tachikata performs the dance while Jikata includes musicians such as shamisen players and drummers.
What is Tachikata?
Tachikata must showcase an appropriate dance (typically Japanese traditional dance) that fits the ambiance of the Ozashiki or the preferences of the guests. They need to be flexible to accommodate sudden requests, necessitating a broad repertoire. In Kagurazaka, the traditional dance style is Hanayagi-ryu, with Hanayagi Seizaburo as the master.
What is Jikata?
Jikata, like Tachikata, requires a diverse repertoire. They must always maintain awareness of the atmosphere (“ma”) while performing alongside the dancer. This skill is highly challenging and requires extensive practice.
This is the Kagurazaka Geisha Group
Let us introduce the members of Kagurazaka’s geisha community who fulfill the roles of Tachikata and Jikata. Please note that some geisha are proficient in both roles. The following members performed as Tachikata and Jikata during the “Kagurazaka heno Izanai (Invitation to Kagurazaka)” event held at Tokyo Daikyu Shrine Matsuya Salon on February 17, 2024:
Tachikata (Dancers)
Chika, Eiko, Konatsu, Fukuko, Kiyono, Haruna, Koyou, Hinano, Waka
Jikata (Accompanists)
Uta (Vocalists): Mayumi, Yumie, Mari, Maiko
Shamisen Players: Kiyono, Sakurako
Ohayashi (Percussion ensemble): Konatsu, Fukuko, Shiho
Enjoy 8 hours of Kagurazaka Geisha Entertainment for just ¥10,000
The “Seiga-kai” event, hosted by Hanayagi Seizaburo, the mentor of Kagurazaka’s geisha community, is scheduled to take place at the Meiji-za Theater on April 20, 2024 (Saturday). Members of Kagurazaka’s geisha community participating in the “Seiga-kai” include Haruna, Koharu, Fukuko, Shiho, Mari, Maiko, Kiyono, and Konatsu. Geisha from Asakusa, Kyoto, and Fukuoka will also participate. The “Seiga-kai” event will begin at 10:50 AM and continue until after 7:00 PM. Tickets for the “Seiga-kai” are reasonably priced at ¥10,000, including tax, offering an opportunity to enjoy performances by geisha from Kagurazaka and other regions.
Unique Terms in the Geisha District
The (Kagai) geisha districts have their own unique culture and language, with many unfamiliar terms. Understanding some of these terms can enhance your enjoyment of the ozashiki.
Here are a few examples:
“Hanadai” (花代): The cost incurred when inviting geisha to the ozashiki. Also known as “Gyokudai.”（玉代） Typically calculated per two-hour increments. The term “hantama” originated from the fact that the cost for a geisha apprentice was half that of a full geisha (however, nowadays, the fees are often the same for both).
“Goshugi” (ご祝儀): A monetary gift given by guests to express appreciation. Equivalent to a tip in foreign contexts. It is handed to geisha in a decorative envelope (Pochi-bukuro). In Kagurazaka, the Goshugi is placed at the collar. One of the oldest stores in Kagurazaka, “Somaya,” sells many Pochi-bukuro for geisha’s “Goshugi.” This is a unique scene found only in Kagurazaka.
“Ichigen” (一見): Refers to a first-time visitor to a Ryotei (Traditional luxury Japanese restaurant). When making reservations for a second Ozashiki after the first Ozashiki (Ryotei visit), it is called “Ura wo Kaesu” (flipping over), and the third nomination is called “Najimi.” Typically, there are many “Ichigen-san” (first-time visitors) not allowed at high-class Ryotei.
“Toode” (遠出): Geisha traveling outside their designated flower district to restaurants or tea houses.
“Atokuchi” (後口): The transition from one Ozashiki to another or the second-party movement to another establishment.
Let’s Enjoy the Authentic Experience of Geisha Entertainment in Kagurazaka, Tokyo
Using the unique language of the geisha district may earn you respect as a connoisseur of the geisha world. Why not enjoy the captivating songs and dances of Kagurazaka’s geisha, and engage in conversation with them? You’re sure to be amazed by the artistry and eloquence of the geisha. This experience is bound to become an unforgettable memory of a lifetime. Please don’t miss out on the authentic experience of geisha entertainment in Tokyo.