A Comprehensive Guide to Geisha Etiquette and Entertainment at Tokyo's Historic Ryotei "Yukimoto"
In this guide, we explain the etiquette and entertainment practices with geisha at the ryotei "Yukimoto" in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, Tokyo. Please note that this is the personal perspective of the proprietress of "Yukimoto" and not an official guideline for Kagurazaka or the Japanese geisha world as a whole.
However, we recommend that guests and travelers who will be attending a banquet at the historic ryotei "Yukimoto," which was founded in 1948, read this before their visit. Understanding ryotei etiquette will help ensure an enjoyable experience with geisha and traditional entertainment.
Ryotei Etiquette
Attire
Bare feet and clothing that exposes too much skin are not permitted.
Inside the Ryotei
Remove your shoes before stepping onto the white stones at the entrance. Shoes will be stored by the staff, so please leave them at the entrance and proceed inside. Wear the provided slippers and move to your room. Remove the slippers before entering the room.
Do not wear slippers to the entrance when leaving.
Interaction with Geisha
Do not touch the geisha's kimono or hair ornaments.
In Japan, there is a tradition of guests and geisha pouring drinks for each other, so please offer drinks to the geisha as well.
Charges for the geisha will apply based on the reservation time. Even if you are late, charges will apply from the reserved time, so please arrive punctually.
It is customary to give a tip (or "go-shugi") to the geisha. After the performance, place the tip in a small envelope and hand it to the geisha. In Kagurazaka, there is a unique custom of placing the envelope in the collar of the kimono.
Flow of the Entertainment
The staff guides you to your room.
After seating, decide on your drinks.
The geisha enter.
The meal begins, and after 3 or 4 dishes, a performance ("Ozashiki") will start. "Ozashiki" refers to the traditional dance or song performed by the geisha.
After the performance, guests pour drinks for the geisha. While enjoying your meal, you may also participate in traditional games if desired.
After the meal and dessert, settle the bill. If needed, the ryotei can arrange a taxi for you.
About Geisha in Kagurazaka
Geisha Appearance: Geisha wear Western-style hair and formal kimonos such as "Houmongi" or "Tsukesage." "Houmongi" is a luxurious formal kimono, while "Tsukesage" is a more modest formal kimono. Typically, geisha do not wear white face makeup. However, if requested, they can change to white makeup and "Hikigi" (kimono with trailing hem) for an additional fee.
Hangyoku (Oshaku) Appearance: Hangyoku, also known as Oshaku, wear traditional Japanese hairstyles, white face makeup, and "Furisode" kimonos. "Furisode" is formal wear for unmarried women.
Note: During the New Year period until around January 20, black "Hikigi" kimonos are considered formal attire in the geisha world, so geisha will wear white makeup and black "Hikigi" kimonos.
Various Uses of the Ryotei
Pre-Opening Geisha Experience: If consulted, we can arrange a short geisha experience session about an hour before regular business hours for those who are vegetarian or do not drink alcohol.
Things to Inform Us in Advance
If you have children, please inform us beforehand. We can arrange a separate menu if needed.
Inform us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions due to religious reasons at the time of booking.
Please let us know any food preferences (likes or dislikes) when making your reservation.
If you have specific requests for the end time, please inform us when booking.
Please check our blog post, How to Learn Tokyo's Geisha Etiquette: Ozashiki Asobi (Entertainment) in Kagurazaka and "Ozashiki Asobi" Glossary for Kagurazaka Geisha in Tokyo
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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