📍Traditional Teahouse Experience in Gion. Kyoto, Japan. Maiko and geiko are traditional Japanese entertainers in Kyoto. Maiko are apprentice geiko, often young women aged 15-20, who wear colorful kimonos, elaborate hairstyles, and distinctive white makeup. They train in arts like dance, music, and tea ceremony. Geiko, Kyoto’s term for geisha, are fully trained professionals skilled in entertaining through conversation, music, and performances. They wear more subdued kimonos and simpler hairstyles. Both are iconic symbols of Kyoto’s cultural heritage. Things I learnt during my visit: -Maiko uses her real hair while Geiko uses a wig! -Their winter outfits can weigh up to 10 kg. -Maiko don’t receive a direct salary. Instead, their living expenses, including housing, food, training, and kimono, are covered by their okiya (geisha house). They may earn small allowances for personal needs, but their main focus is on mastering their craft. Once they become geiko, they start earning their own income. -Maikos don’t have any restrictions on their diet but there are places that they are not allowed to go to. -Maikos don’t own cellphones and they use letters to communicate with family and friends. (Rules may vary but this was according to Hanako san in the video!) #kyoto #kyotoculture #kyotomaiko #kyotogeisha #kyotojapan #japantravel #kyototrip #japan #japanculture #kyototeahouse #japantraditional #kyototraditions