Enjoying Traditional Performing Arts in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku: An Evening with Geisha and Hōkan

On July 19, 2024, I attended the “17th Kagura Goyomi (Calendar)” event at the Ryotei “Yukimoto” in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku. This event was dedicated to enjoying the traditional performances of “Hōkan,” also known as male geisha or “Taiko-mochi.” Only six Hōkan are left in Japan today, making this a very rare and valuable experience. At this event, four geisha from Kagurazaka and the Hōkan “Matsunoya Hachiko” collaborated to liven up the evening.

The Event Began as Follows

The event began with the geisha serving drinks to the guests and engaging in conversation. After the guests had enjoyed some of their meals, the geisha performed traditional dances. As the guests neared the end of their meal, just before the rice course, the Hōkan showcased various performances.

The menu for the evening was as follows, and as expected from a high-class Ryotei that has entertained prominent figures from the political and financial worlds, each dish was exquisite and delicious:

Appetizer: Clam, spinach Ohitashi, grilled matsutake mushroom
Soup: Shrimp fishcake, Kuruma-fu, carrot, asparagus
Sashimi: Striped jack, tuna, white squid
Stewed Dish: Winter melon, pike eel
Fried Dish: Hairtail fish, awabi mushroom
Rice Dish: Scallop rice
Dessert: Peach jelly, Shine Muscat grapes

The Geisha’s Dance Performances Were Excellent

The geisha’s dance performances were as outstanding as always. The participating geisha were Chika, Fukuko, Haruna, and Sakurako. Known for their exceptional skills among Kagurazaka’s geisha, they mesmerized the guests with their performances. Please watch this video to appreciate the beauty of their dance and shamisen music.

The Hōkan Delivered a Supreme Performance

The Hōkan, “Matsunoya Hachiko,” delivered a supreme performance that had everyone in stitches. With a background in pantomime, his act, relying solely on gestures, was refined and spectacular. Be sure to watch this video to enjoy his performance.

Traditional Performing Arts in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku: The Kagura Goyomi (Calendar), Geisha and Hōkan Event Was a Perfect Evening

The 17th Kagura Goyomi (Calendar) event was a perfect evening, featuring not only the fantastic performances of the Hōkan and geisha but also excellent food and service. This event offered a wonderful opportunity to enjoy traditional performing arts in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, with Geisha and Hōkan. While most guests were locals from the Kagurazaka area, we encourage foreign visitors to attend as well.

The next event, the “18th Kagura Goyomi (Calendar),” titled “Adult Summer Festival,” will be held on Friday, August 30, and Wednesday, September 4 (both starting at 6:30 PM). In addition to the Kagurazaka geisha’s dance performances, the event will feature various games and activities for two and a half hours. Each event is limited to 25 participants, so please make your reservations early.

Book Each Experience

Kagurazaka Geisha (Restaurant)

Kagurazaka Geisha (Eel Restaurant)

Kagurazaka Geisha (Ryotei)

Geisha Ozashiki Asobi

Kagurazaka Geisha (Bar)

Clothing Rental (Samue or Outdoor Wear)

How to Access Kagurazaka

The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.