It’s an experience unlike anything you could ever imagine. A centuries-old practice that perfectly illustrates the appreciation the people of Japan have for tradition. If given the opportunity, you should accept the invitation to dine with a geisha.
To understand the allure of this experience, let’s delve into the rich history of the Japanese geisha. In the early 1200s Edo (modern-day Tokyo), the first recorded form of geishas appeared. Believe it or not, these original geishas did not resemble the ones we all have come to know today. While many people think of geishas as beautiful female performers, the original geishas were men.
Male geishas, typically known as taikomochi (drum beater) or hokan (court jester), were important in strategic military planning meetings. But when Japan entered a time of peace in the 17th century, the role of the geisha shifted to a more artistic one, opening the doors to women.
The dining experience takes place in a teahouse located in historical districts like Kyoto's Gion or Tokyo’s Asakusa. Once inside, you’ll feel the tatami-matted floor beneath your feet after removing your shoes. You will most likely be served a cup of matcha tea as you wait for the geisha to arrive at the softly lit room. The space is framed by shoji screens, and an impeccable floral arrangement will be on display. The perfect setting for this multi-course meal which typically ranges from six to fifteen courses, highlights high-quality local ingredients prepared to accentuate natural flavors and seasonality.
The meal includes sakizuke, a starter to whet your appetite, and hassun, which sets the seasonal theme with sushi and smaller dishes arranged to evoke tranquility. Suimono, a delicate soup served in a lidded bowl, demonstrates the chef’s mastery, while otsukuri features expertly prepared sashimi reflecting the season.
Continuing through the courses, yakimono presents grilled vegetables, fish and poultry marinated in teriyaki, and takiawase offers a simmered dish of vegetables and meat. Shokuji, the rice course served with miso soup and pickles, is a staple in Japanese meals, with regional pickles adding a unique touch. The meal concludes with mizugashi or mizumono, a dessert course that might include brown sugar sorbet, ice cream, fresh fruit, or traditional Japanese confections, often paired with tea to balance its bitterness.
Following dinner, you’ll be treated to a musical performance. Most commonly, a geisha will play the shamisen, which resembles a banjo, or the koto, which is Japan’s national instrument made of paulownia wood and thirteen silk strings. You’ll be delighted to see a performance of an elegant dance known as Nihon buyo. This dance has its roots in Japanese theater arts such as noh and kabuki. Each performance is steeped in history and cultural significance, offering a peek into the rich heritage of Japan and its arts.
The evening wouldn’t be complete without a few games. Ozashiki asobi, or traditional party games, are simple and easy to play in small groups or pairs. Thankfully, the games do not require any understanding of Japanese. Typically, when one loses, he or she is expected to drink as a penalty. Ozashiki asobi games are unique in that some are so old that they can only be played with a geisha during this experience.
Be sure to brush up on a few Japanese dining phrases to use throughout the evening, such as Itadakimasu (I humbly receive this food), Gochisou-sama deshita (this was a treat) and Arigatou gozaimasu (thank you). Geishas are trained to provide the utmost hospitality, so allow them to pour your drinks throughout the evening. Make sure to have fun and participate throughout the evening to show your appreciation to your hosts.
Japan is home to many unique experiences, but none ranks higher than spending time with a geisha. An evening with a geisha is a one-of-a-kind experience that is not just a meal but a journey into Japanese culture. For those fortunate enough to take part in this event that combines culinary perfection and artistic excellence, you’ll be left with a long-lasting memory of an immersion into Japanese culture.
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