Geisha: Japan's floating world beauties

Author: Shen Zhongqi
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-09-01
Features: Geisha, a special occupation that emerged in the Edo period of Japan, has always been shrouded in mystery. As professional women who entertained at banquets with singing and poetry, geisha must embody feminine charm in their service, which adds to their enigmatic allure. Every aspect of a geisha's performance—whether through dance, music, or gestures—reflects classical artistic principles. Compared to the peak period of the late 19th century, and even to the pre-1970s heyday, the number of geisha in Japan has significantly declined, as if they are in their twilight. However, geisha culture has not faded; instead, it has permeated all aspects of Japanese society. The code of conduct known as "Geisha Way" has become a model for modern Japanese women. Through geisha culture, one can glimpse a side of the core of Japanese culture and understand the unique coexistence of traditional and modern cultures in Japanese society. This book is divided into four chapters, each titled with a line from Japanese Chinese poetry, including:
- "Few in the East write about Arashiyama, but Kuni Tatsuo has made this painting" by Fuji Ichi (1807–1866)
- "Dreaming of Li Changji" by Nakajima Dairei (1801–1834)
- "Artificial Mountain" by Uraji Chuzo (birth and death years unknown)
- "Flowers and Rocks in front of Chongfu Studio" by Fuji Ichi
These poets were active before the Meiji Restoration, when composing Chinese-style regulated verse became fashionable among Japanese literati. The titles are quoted here to symbolize the connection between the traditional Japanese culture embodied by geisha and Chinese culture. The four lines perfectly form a "single-word collection of phrases," serving as the author's reflections on Japanese geisha culture.