What is a Geiko/Geisha?
Geiko are traditional, female Japanese entertainers whose skills include performing various Japanese arts such as classical music and dance.
The most literal translation of geisha into English would be "artist" or "performing artist". Another name for geisha used in Japan is geiko, which is usually used to refer to geisha from Western Japan, including Kyoto. Apprentice geisha are called maiko. Maikos' white make-up and elaborate kimono and hairstyle is the popular image held of geisha. A woman entering the geisha community does not have to start out as a maiko, having the opportunity to begin her career as a full geisha. Either way, however, usually a year's training is involved before debuting either as a maiko or as a geisha. A woman above 21 is considered too old to be a maiko and becomes a full geisha upon her initiation into the geisha community. However, those who do go through the maiko stage can enjoy more prestige later in their professional lives. Throughout history, geisha often began the earliest stages of their training at a very young age, sometimes as early as at 3 or 5 years. The early shikomi (servant) and minarai (watching apprentice) stages of geisha training lasted years, which is significantly longer than in contemporary times. Modern geisha still live in traditional geisha houses called okiya in areas called hanamachi, particularly during their apprenticeship. Many experienced geisha are successful enough to choose to live independently. The elegant, high-culture world that geisha are a part of is called karyūkai (花柳界 "the flower and willow world").
Are you real Japanese women and real Geisha?
We can dream can we? Absolutely not. We have many guests visit us from Japan but none of our staff is from Japan. We are spread out around the US. A real Geiko wouldn't have time to play herself on the internet!
Is this a Roleplay?
No. The difference between what we do and a roleplay is; You build your own characters life story etc. and have no sort of education or background of what you are pretending to be. What we do is an immersed education into the Geiko culture giving you the tools to progress and refine yourself. It is much of a real life experience as well as a virtual one.
Do you involve yourself in prostitution?
As over asked as this is the answer is; no. Geisha are regarded as prostitutes by many non-Japanese. Geisha have been confused with the Edo-period's high-class courtesans known as Oiran, from whom they evolved. Like geisha, oiran wore elaborate hairstyles and white makeup, but oiran knotted their obi the front, wore exaggerated hair and Uchikake kimono compared to the Geiko susohiki. It has been commonly thought the obi was tied that way for easy removal, though anthropologist Liza Dalby has suggested that it was because it was the practice of married women at the time.
Can I be a Geisha too?
In reality no foreigner stands a chance at entering an okiya except for those on occasion who have for research but, we offer the possibility to learn the same customs as real Geiko do in a virtual setting.
What do I do to begin?
Firstly you must make an account on Second Life and download the program, afterward you can find Pontocho by clicking here and finding either a staff member or the application box.
What will I learn at Pontocho Okiya?
Under the direction of the okiya you will be put to work from day one. Students will be assigned classes with different instructors (also students) who either specilize in the taught craft in real life or have a strong desire to teach it in world. Lessons range from costuming to etiquette and even handling your own teahouse banquet.
What hours would I need to be available to work?
We run under PST time (Pacific Time Zone). Most of our staff is available between 4pm - 8pm PST. Joining the okiya means you are giving a full dedication and cannot be absent for long periods of time.
What is the Staff like?
Our staff is a tight-knit group of geisha enthusiasts and generally very welcoming and helpful to those new faces. They are approachable with any questions you may have and will try their best to help with any bumps in the road.
What do you do outside of being a virtual Geisha?
Our real lives remain mysterious for our own protection. We do normal everyday activities you might do and dabble in Japanese culture in the mix.
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