Geisha Terms

Geiko = Geisha

Maiko - Novice Geisha.  Maiko in the earliest years began her training
as early as age 6. Average start age was about 12,
now some beging training as late as age16.

Shikomi - 1st stage of training which includes chores, classes,
music lessons, assist in dressing Maiko get dressed.
She wears kimono every day and practices
the lofty dialect and refine her behavior.

Oki - dormitory where maiko resides

Taikomochi - The first Geisha who were male.

Jikata - Geisha who perform music

Shamisen - 13 Stringed instument played by Geisha.

Tachikata - Dancing Geisha

Okiya - A geisha family quarters. Only the older Geiko
are allowed to not live there and on their own.

Hanamachi - Geisha living quarters / home

Onesan - maiko's older sister geisha.

Musume-bun  is the younger sister geisha to the Onesan

Okasan - Ruling mother

Sansun-kudo  is a ritual ceremony binding the Onesan and Musume-bun
Three sips of sake three times each time from larger cup. The Musume-bun
is given a new name which is simular to her older sister's name..

Attori - legal heir to the business of the Okasan
(either real or adopted daughter)

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