A Very Rare and Special Geisha Event: “Yukata-kai” in Kagurazaka
Did you know that you can join a rare Geisha event by Kagurazaka Geisha for only ¥10,000? It is not just any event but a highly rare and special “Yukata-kai” (Yukata Gathering). The way to do this is by becoming a member of the Kagurazaka Geisha fan club, "Kagura Club." Normally, the cost of enjoying an Ozashiki-Asobi (Geisha entertainment) is more than ¥50,000 per person, so joining the fan club is an extremely affordable way to experience it, don't you think?
I attended the “Yukata-kai” at the Kenban in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku Ward, on July 20, 2024. When I entered the venue for the “Yukata-kai,” I was enveloped in a quiet and calm atmosphere. After a short while, the Geisha in their yukatas entered. Their appearance was different from their usual glamorous kimonos, being simple yet dignified. The special ambiance unique to the Yukata-kai was palpable, and I was drawn into the atmosphere of the place.
“Yukata-kai”: A Rare Event Now Open to the Public Starting This Year
Until last year, the “Yukata-kai” was a performance event for the proprietresses of Ryotei (traditional restaurants) by the Geisha. Starting this year, members of the Kagurazaka Geisha fan club "Kagura Club" were invited on a first-come, first-served basis for up to 10 members. As a member of the "Kagura Club," I was invited. The audience consisted of about 15 people, including Ryotei's proprietresses and shamisen masters. On the other hand, 15 Geisha participated. Here, I will report on this extremely rare event, the “Yukata-kai.”
A Rare Event to Broaden the Artistic Skills of Geisha
The “Yukata-kai” is a presentation of "Jikata" performances. The dancers who perform standing are called “Tachikata.” On the other hand, "Jikata" refers to the musicians who play the shamisen, percussion instruments (such as drums and taiko), and singers. They perform while sitting, hence the term "Jikata." Usually, the dancers who perform as Tachikata in the ozashiki also challenge themselves with Jikata at the “Yukata-kai.” They practice with Jikata masters for this event. It is quite rare for Tachikata Geisha to perform as Jikata, which increases the rarity of the event.
Please check our blog post about Tachikata and Jikata, "Ozashiki Asobi" Glossary for Kagurazaka Geisha in Tokyo
The reason for holding events like the “Yukata-kai” is to broaden the range of the Geisha's art. If a Tachikata Geisha can also perform Jikata, she becomes an all-around Geisha capable of responding to any customer's request. Broadening their artistic skills makes it easier for Geisha to make a living. Since the shamisen is a difficult instrument that takes time to master, the sincere practice of it has become an important training for young Geisha.
A Rare Event Where All Geisha Wear Yukata, Not Kimono
As the name suggests, the “Yukata-kai” is a gathering where Geisha wear yukatas. Normally, Geisha wear kimono. The glamorous kimono is one of the major characteristics of Geisha. It is rare for them to appear in front of guests in the more subdued yukata. From the photos, you can understand how extremely rare it is to see Geisha in matching navy yukatas. Moreover, since it is a small event, you can take pictures with the Geisha. This visual rarity alone greatly enhances the event's uniqueness.
“Yukata-kai” Held at the Kenban, the Geisha Practice Venue Normally Closed to the Public
Furthermore, you usually cannot enter the Kenban. The Kenban is the office that dispatches Geisha and the place where they practice. You can meet Geisha at traditional restaurants, some specific restaurants, and bars, but just entering the Kenban is an extremely valuable experience. Our company offers a premium plan called "Kagurazaka Refined Wander," where you can enjoy dance performances and ozashiki games with the Geisha at the Kenban. If you want to enter the kenban, please contact us.
Consider Joining the "Kagura Club"
The Kagurazaka Geisha fan club, "Kagura Club," was established just last December, so it still has about 50 members. Although an annual membership fee of ¥10,000 is required, I heard from the Kenban that various benefits will increase besides the “Yukata-kai.” Therefore, if you want to support Kagurazaka Geisha, why not consider joining the "Kagura Club"? Participating in such a rare event for ¥10,000 is quite a deal, isn't it?
Moreover, when you tell the Kagurazaka Geisha that you are a member of the "Kagura Club," they are always delighted. Just seeing the Geisha's beaming smiles makes you feel glad to have joined the "Kagura Club."
Such support also helps preserve the traditional art of Geisha for the future. The "Kagura Club" may not offer many benefits for foreign tourists, but it could be quite advantageous for Japanese and foreigners living in Japan. In fact, at today's Yukata-kai, a Waseda University graduate student from the United States, was a member of the "Kagura Club." As someone who supports Kagurazaka Geisha, I was very pleased. Everyone, please support Kagurazaka Geisha.
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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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