Labels

Japan: Kyoto XII - Gion & Miyako Odori


A trip to Gion (祇園) is a must if you are in Kyoto. This is Kyoto's most famous geisha district. The popular book "Memoirs of a Geisha" is probably what propelled the mysterious tradition to international curiosity. Geishas are trained in arts of hospitality, communication, traditional performing arts and cultural art forms. They are professionals who ease the tensions of high-class dinners and bring entertainment elements like dance and music to the guests. If you're keen to read more about Geishas and their rich heritage; http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2102.html

Entering the Gion district is like revisiting the charm of the old days, you'll be surrounded by ochaya (teahouses). There's this elusive air of secrecy here, all the buildings are made of wood and all the front doors are closed. You might see some name plates displayed on the top border of the entrance, but that's about it. Whatever goes on inside is a mystery. We went to Hanami-koji street whereby there are many well-preserved traditional wooden machiya merchant houses. Some of it has been converted to restaurants, but their mysterious front facades seemed to rather intimidating to the non-Japanese speakers. 



In the evenings, you can catch a glimpse of geikos or maikos (geisha apprentices) out for an engagement. And I must say, they move really swiftly despite being attired in the beautiful traditional dress. It probably has its relations to the increasing number of paparazzi who hang around waiting for them to make an appearance. So if you have the good fortune of catching a glimpse of them, do remember to set your shutter speed to a high speed and up you ISO.



 If you are keen to observe the traditional performing art forms that Geisha are trained in, do visit Gion Corner. http://www.kyoto-gioncorner.com/global/en.html

However, if you are in Kyoto in April, be sure to catch the Miyako Odori show! Literally translated as The Dance of the Capital. It features many maikos and geikos performing the various Cherry Blossom theme dances. 


It's held at the old Kaburenjo Theater. 

 Photography is not allowed during he performances. But here's a preview of the theatre.

 There're 3 classes of tickets, and for us, we got the 3rd tier, which is the cheapest. You can purchase the tickets by phone or fax. Or get them on the day of the performance itself , which is what we did. It doesn't provide for the most comfortable sitting and you'll have to sit cross legged throughout the performance. There's no intermission break and you'll have to remove your footwear.. so no smelly or hole-ly socks please.

Overall, it's an interesting experience, but as tourists not schooled in the traditional art form, some of the meanings behind the actions do get lost in translation. It can be a tad slow for those used to fast-paced pop culture. But all in all, it is an experience to see the precision and dedication to this traditional and cultural heritage. 

Info: http://www.miyako-odori.jp/english/
Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular Posts