A “Maiko” ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maiko ) is a young female who performs traditional Japanese entertainment at dinners and parties and is at a training stage prior to become a Geigi ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geisha ), which is mostly used in Kiyoto (A more popular term, Geisha, is used outside Kyoto).

Maiko and Geigi (Geisha) originate in serving traditional teas and sweets at a “cafe” in Kyoto about 300 years ago during the Edo era.

There are many places in Kyoto where you can enjoy the traditional Japanese cultures including tea, sweets, dances with Maiko:

Or makeup and dress as Maiko and take unforgettable photos:

Often associated with Maiko and Geigi (Geisha) is Wagasa, Japanese Oil Paper Umbrella ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oil-paper_umbrella#Wagasa_in_Japanese_culture ), which is made of natural materials like Washi ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washi ), bamboo, wood, flaxseed oil, Japanese lacquer, and persimmon among others.

The Wagasa is crafted with components made by specialists in bamboo framework, Washi and Wagasa masters and can take from several weeks to months.

There are services and shops where you can experience and buy Wagasa. Hiyoshiya manufactures Wagasa and Wagasa-like lighting. They also have lessons to make a small Wagasa.

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