Understanding the Life and Work of a Maiko in Kyoto - Japan Travel Sights

Understanding the Life and Work of a Maiko in Kyoto

Maiko, the graceful young women in white makeup and elegant attire, are symbols of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage.

While many people are familiar with their appearance, few know the details of their daily lives, work, and training.

In this article, we’ll dive into the life of a Maiko, their responsibilities, and how you can meet and experience time with them during your visit to Kyoto.


Who Are Maiko?

A Maiko is an apprentice geisha, trained in the arts of traditional Japanese dance, music, and conversation.

They provide entertainment at banquets and gatherings by pouring drinks, performing dances, and engaging in lively conversation with guests.

Maiko are essential to preserving Kyoto’s traditional culture, making them true cultural treasures of Japan.


The Life of a Maiko

Life at the Okiya

Maiko live in a place called an Okiya, where they undergo training and prepare for their careers.

The Okiya is more than just a place to live; it’s also where young girls, called Shikomi, begin their training to eventually become Maiko.

The Okasan (mother) of the Okiya is responsible for teaching them the rules of the hanamachi and traditional etiquette.

In addition to caring for the Maiko’s daily needs, the Okasan manages their work schedules and training, playing a role much like a manager in a talent agency.


A Typical Day for a Maiko

A Maiko’s day is filled with training, preparation, and work. Here’s a glimpse of their daily schedule:

  • 8 AM: Wake up and go to training
    Maiko spend their mornings practicing traditional dances, shamisen (a three-stringed instrument), and singing. They attend lessons at schools specific to their hanamachi, such as the Yasaka Women’s School in Gion Kobu.
  • 12 PM: Lunch and rest
    After training, Maiko return to the Okiya for lunch. In the afternoon, they may visit senior Geiko or other tea houses for greetings.
  • 3 PM: Preparation for the evening
    In the afternoon, Maiko begin preparing for their evening performances. This includes applying their iconic makeup, donning their kimono, and getting their hair done by professionals.
  • 6 PM: Evening work
    In the evening, Maiko head to tea houses (ochaya) where they entertain guests by performing traditional dances and playing party games.
  • 1 AM: Return to the Okiya
    After a long night of entertaining, Maiko return home to remove their makeup and unwind. They often don’t get to bed until around 2 AM.

How Much Do Maiko Earn?

While Maiko do not receive a salary in the traditional sense, their living expenses, training, and other costs are covered by the Okiya. In exchange, Maiko repay the Okiya by working until they become independent Geiko. The Okasan may provide Maiko with pocket money (around ¥10,000–20,000 per month) for personal expenses.


Becoming a Maiko

Most Maiko begin their journey as Shikomi after completing middle school at around 15 or 16 years old. Becoming a Maiko is not easy, and only those deemed to have potential by the Okasan are allowed to enter the Okiya.

As a Shikomi, they assist with household chores and accompany senior Maiko to tea houses to observe the art of entertaining guests. Over time, they learn the skills required to become a Maiko.


What Is O-zashiki (Banquet Play)?

O-zashiki refers to the gatherings where Maiko entertain guests at tea houses. They perform traditional dances, engage in conversation, and play games with guests, creating an unforgettable experience.

How Much Does It Cost to Experience a Banquet with a Maiko?

The cost of spending time with a Maiko can vary, but generally includes the following:

  • Flower Fee (O-hana-dai): ¥30,000–50,000 per Maiko/Geiko
  • Food and Drink (including seating fee): ¥10,000–20,000 per person
  • Gratuity for performances: ¥10,000–20,000

In total, the experience can cost anywhere from ¥50,000–90,000, depending on the number of Maiko/Geiko and guests.

For example, if you invite three performers—a “Maiko,” a “Geiko,” and a “Jikata” (someone who plays the shamisen)—for a two-hour banquet with four guests, the costs would be as follows:

  • Flower fee (O-hana-dai): ¥40,000 × 3 people (Geiko, Maiko, Jikata)
  • Food and drink: ¥20,000 × 4 people (for the 4 guests)
  • Gratuity for the banquet: ¥30,000 (for the Geiko, Maiko, and Jikata)
  • Tip for the Geiko and Maiko: ¥20,000 (for the Geiko and Maiko)

Total: ¥250,000

Tipping is not mandatory, but once you are at the banquet, you may feel inclined to give some extra money to show your appreciation.

Additionally, there is no set price at tea houses, and it’s common for them not to have a price list. If you behave like a gentleman and make a good impression on the tea house owner, they may offer you a better rate, whereas if you show a lack of manners, the price could increase.

Moreover, the price can vary depending on the person who introduces you. This is part of the traditional way of doing things in Kyoto’s hanamachi (geisha districts).


Conclusion

Meeting a Maiko in Kyoto is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a glimpse into the elegance and tradition of Japan’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re attending a performance or partaking in an O-zashiki, Kyoto offers many ways to enjoy the world of the Maiko


To the top