🎎 Niigata Furumachi Geisha

The Furumachi district in Chuo Ward, Niigata City, originated in the late Edo period and has a history of 200 years. It is known as one of Japan's three major geisha districts, alongside Kyoto's "Gion" and Tokyo's "Shinbashi." Today, this charming town still has several active geisha, and visitors can enjoy traditional entertainment in the ryotei (Japanese-style restaurants). The performances of songs, dances, and shamisen in the ryotei are the results of training in the "Ichiyamaryu" school of Japanese dance in Niigata City. Guests can savor the delicious Niigata rice, local sake, and dishes made with seasonal ingredients while spending enjoyable moments with the geisha, experiencing Japan's traditions that are not easily encountered in daily life. If you wish to invite a geisha to the ryotei, you can inform the restaurant of the number of guests, the time, and your budget, and the ryotei will make the arrangements. The costs may vary depending on whether the ryotei is a member of the "Niigata Sangyo Kyodo Kumiai." For more details or any uncertainties, please inquire with the staff at the ryotei.

Geisha performing in Niigata's Furumachi. Geishas who specialize in Japanese dance, musical instruments, shamisen, and nagauta present captivating performances of dance and shamisen for the audience. Simply inform the ryotei (traditional Japanese inn) in the Furumachi area of your needs, and they can arrange for geisha services. The experience fee varies depending on the number of geishas, the duration, and whether the establishment is a member of the "Niigata San-gyo Kyodo Kumiai" (Niigata Three Industries Cooperative). For first-time participants, it is recommended to choose the package that includes a meal and a zashiki (tatami room) performance held in summer and winter.