Q1

What is Chaya (teahouse) ?

A

A Chaya (teahouse) is like a production agency for geisha. It handles operations such as receiving reservations and sending geisha to the banquets. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that whether the customers would have a good time or not largely depends on the teahouse. Although geisha belong to a teahouse, each one operates as an independent contractor.

Q2

Can you explain the work of geisha?

A

Although the term referring to Geisha may vary depending on the region, such as geisha-san, geiko-san, and geigi-san, they are called "geigi-san" with affection in Kanazawa. The character for "gei" implies “art,” and their main job is to entertain customers with their dance and musical performance at banquets. Daily training to acquire and maintain refined techniques in performances is also part of the job.

Q3

What is the role of geisha in Kanazawa's cultural promotion?

A

Kanazawa has always been culturally active, with many citizens being knowledgeable and skilled in the arts. Customers not only enjoy watching dance and musical performances by Geisha, but they often also play music themselves. Both Geisha and customers emulated each other in raising the standard and contributed to the refinement of the traditional culture. Geisha also play a role in preserving Kanazawa's cultural heritage, such as "sasara" (a traditional percussion instrument).

Many regions divide geisha into "tachikata" (dancers) and "jikata" (musicians), but in Kanazawa, many geishas are deft in both dancing and musical accompaniment. Upon their debut, It is customary for rookie geisha to pay a visit to the mayor to report their debut, reflecting the high expectations placed on geisha. As the epicenter of such culture, the Chaya district is not just an entertainment district; they are called "Kanazawa Geigi" with respect to their cultural prestige.

Q4

What is “Ozashik-Asobi” (Ozashiki Games)?

A

“Asobi” means play, and it refers to simple games played in the ozashiki (tatami room). There are various games such as "Konpira Funefune," where you pick up and place small items while singing, "Toratora," a kind of rock-paper-scissors game using gestures, and "Ozashiki Taiko," where the customer plays the Taiko Japanese drum to the shamisen's accompaniment.

Q5

How Can I invite Geisha?

A

Basically, all teahouses do not accept requests from first-timers. It is not easy for someone without connections to invite Geisha as you need a referral from another customer of the teahouse. Recently travel agencies are offering various experiential Ozashiki tours with Geisha. If you're interested, trying one of these experiential tours is a good way to start.

(Reference: Yūra Satō, "Historical Overview and Consideration of the Differences in Attracting Tourists of the East and West Teahouse Districts," Journal of Seiryo University, Volume 41, Number 2, December 2007)