Do you know the meaning behind the songs sung by geisha during 'Ozashiki Asobi'?
In Tokyo's Kagurazaka, the traditional geisha entertainment called "Ozashiki Asobi" often features three songs accompanied by shamisen and dance. These songs typically include a "seasonal song," "Yakkosan," and "Sawagi."
The "seasonal song" changes according to the time of year, as indicated by its name. Additionally, the geisha's kimono also changes every month to reflect the seasonal atmosphere.
In this post, we will explain the lyrics of "Yakkosan" and "Sawagi," two songs frequently performed in "Ozashiki Asobi." Even if you don’t understand Japanese, knowing the meaning behind the lyrics will enhance your appreciation of the performance. In fact, many foreign guests often ask, "What does this song mean?"
"Yakkosan"
The song "Yakkosan" has two parts: the first part features a male character ("Yakkosan"), while the second part features a female character ("Madam"). The dance also changes to reflect these roles, transitioning from a male to a female dance. If you can recognize these shifts, you’ll find the performance even more engaging.
Reference Video of 'Yakkosan'
"Yakkosan" Lyrics:
(Haa Korya Korya)
(It’s Yakkosan)
"Yakkosan! Where are you going?"
(Haa Korya Korya)
"I’m going to pick up my master.
Even though it’s cold, we must walk in formation (Tomozoroi ※1) together."
(Yuki no Se)
"On snowy nights and on windy nights,
It’s hard to accompany my master.
Yakkosan always hikes up his kimono to his waist."
(Aryase, Koryasa, Yoisa, Yoitona)
"Well, I guess that’s how it is."
(It’s the Madam)
"Madam! Is this true?"
(Haa, Shita Korya)
"Yes, We put on our kimonos and part without exchanging words (※2).
Tomorrow night, I’ll be alone by the back door.
(Are you ready for the signal?)
I came to meet you successfully."
(Aryase, Koryasa, Yoisa, Yoitona)
"Well, I guess that’s how it is."
Notes
※1: Tomozoroi - This refers to the act of attendants or servants forming a procession while accompanying their master, a practice often seen in the Edo period with samurai or high-ranking officials. The term reflects the orderly and synchronized movement of the attendants, regardless of the weather conditions.
※2: We put on our kimonos and part without exchanging words - This refers to the Kinuginu (後朝) ritual, symbolizing the morning parting of lovers after spending the night together. In the Edo period, this phrase expressed the bittersweet nature of such partings, where lovers, though close, leave without saying much.
"Sawagi"
In many geisha districts, the dance "Sawagi" often concludes the "Ozashiki Asobi" banquets. At the "Kagurazaka Odori" event held on October 19, 2024, all the geisha came together to perform "Sawagi" at the finale. The lyrics of "Sawagi" vary from one district to another. In Kagurazaka, the lyrics specifically mention "Kagurazaka."
'Sawagi' Performed by Kagurazaka Geisha
"Sawagi" Lyrics:
The blossoms are lively,
I see my beloved figure.
The slopes of love,
In Kagurazaka.
Fallen pine needles,
They bring good fortune.
May our path together last,
Until the end of time.
Shall I walk you home,
Or will you walk me back?
At least,
Let’s walk to the corner of that street.
By understanding the meaning behind the lyrics of "Yakkosan" and "Sawagi," you can better enjoy the beauty of Kagurazaka geisha's dances, songs, and shamisen music. Discover the charm of Japan’s traditional performing arts, and you’ll find yourself falling in love with Japanese culture even more.
To truly appreciate the world of Kagurazaka geisha, we invite you to join one of our "Ozashiki Asobi" tours or attend the geisha event "Invitation to Kagurazaka." Our "Ozashiki Asobi" tours are held daily. The "Invitation to Kagurazaka" event will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Tokyo Daijingu Matsuya-saron. Like the "Kagurazaka Odori," this event will feature all the geisha of Kagurazaka. Tickets will be available from December onwards.
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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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