Why Do Geisha in Tokyo Not Wear White Makeup? The Difference from Kyoto’s Geiko
Why Do Geisha in Tokyo Not Wear White Makeup? The Difference from Kyoto’s Geiko Are There No Geisha in Kyoto!? Foreign tourists often ask, “Are there Geisha in Tokyo as well as Kyoto?” The answer is, “There are no Geisha in Kyoto, but there are Geisha in Tokyo.” This is a common misconception, even among Japanese people. In the Kanto region, which includes Tokyo, the term “Geisha” refers to “Geigi” (professional female entertainers), and apprentices are called “Hangyoku” or “Oshaku.” In contrast, in Kyoto and other areas outside Tokyo, professional female entertainers are called “Geiko,” and apprentices are called “Maiko.” Therefore, there are Geisha in Tokyo and Geiko in Kyoto. “Geigi” is a general term for both Geisha and Geiko, referring to women who entertain guests with songs, dance, and music during banquets. Do You Know Why Geisha Do Not Wear White Makeup? Not all Geisha (Geigi) wear white makeup. In Tokyo, Geisha wear white makeup during formal occasions, such as New Year’s celebrations, but they do not wear it during regular banquets. Additionally, during formal occasions, while apprentices (Hangyoku) use their natural hair, Geisha wear wigs. One reason Tokyo Geisha do not wear white makeup during regular banquets