What does the term geisha mean?
Q: What does the term geisha mean?
A: Geisha is a Japanese word made up of two parts, 芸 (gei) meaning "art," and 者 (sha), meaning "person who does" or "to be employed in." The most literal translation in English is "artist."
Q: Where are the strictest geisha traditions found?
A: The strictest geisha traditions can be found in Kyoto. Geisha have worked there for the longest time and it takes up to five years of training to become a professional geisha in this city.
Q: What do apprentice geishas wear?
A: Apprentice geishas, also known as maiko, wear white make-up called oshiroi and long-sleeved kimono with many bright colors. Maiko in some places also wear a belt, called an obi, that is up to 6 metres (20 ft) long. Many maiko wear fancy hairstyles made with their own hair, but in some places they wear wigs instead.
Q: How long does it take to become a full geisha in Tokyo?
A: Becoming a full geisha in Tokyo takes from six months to one year.
Q: What are apprentice geishas called in Tokyo?
A: Apprentice geishas in Tokyo are called han'gyoku (半玉), which means "half jewel" or "half pay," and o-shaku (御酌), which means "one who serves (alcohol)."
Q: Where do many traditional geishas live?
A: Many traditional geishas live in traditional houses called okiya located within neighborhoods referred to as hanamachi ("flower town"). Successful older geishas may have their own home. A registered address at an okiya is required for any working professional Geisha.
Q: What is the world that Geishas are part of referred to as?
A: The world that Geishas are part of is referred to as karyūkai (花柳界), which translates into English as “the flower and willow world”
