Shinya Yamada on LinkedIn: What Does a Geisha Do?: The History of Geisha Part 1 (Edo Period) (2024)

What Is Izakaya? Basic Tips for Foreigners Part 4Solution 3Ask other customers for help or order by pointing to their food.Other customers may not speak a foreign language, but some will kindly assist you. This can lead to interesting interactions and enhance your travel experience.Ordering by pointing to other customers' food is easy, but be mindful of etiquette. Staring at others while they eat can be impolite.Combine Solution 2 and Solution 3. First, order 2-3 types of "Moriawase" and "Kyo no Osusume" and then ask other customers for additional recommendations.Solution Extra EditionUse Google Lens to translate Japanese menus. While not perfect, it helps you understand the menu better than not using it at all.Using Google Lens in Japan, I found it useful for understanding menu items, although it sometimes struggles with unique dish names. It's better than nothing and can help you make more informed choices.Combine Solution 2 and Solution 3. First, order 2-3 types of "Moriawase" and "Kyo no Osusume" and then ask other customers for additional recommendations.Check out my blog post https://wix.to/M4i0K1j#newblogpost#izakaya#kagurazaka

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What Is Izakaya? Basic Tips for Foreigners Part 3Basic Tips for Foreigners about Izakayas: Ordering from Japanese MenusSolution 2I recommend remembering common ordering patterns at izakayas. I consider this suggestion to be a 'Basic Tips for Foreigners about Izakayas.'Many Japanese people use terms like "Moriawase (platter)" and "Kyo no Osusume (today's recommendations)" when ordering. For example, you can say "Sashimi Moriawase(sashimi platter)" or "Sashimi no Kyo no Osusume (today's recommended sashimi)." Other common terms include "Yakitori Moriawase (yakitori platter)," "Oden Moriawase (Oden platter)," and "Kyo Ichiban no Osusume (today's best recommendation)."What Is "Moriawase"? "Moriawase" refers to a platter of assorted items chosen by the izakaya. Even if it's not on the menu, many izakayas will serve assorted dishes when you ask for a "Moriawase." Examples include "Sashimi Moriawase," "Yakitori Moriawase," "Oden Moriawase," "Zensai Moriawase (appetizer platter)," "Kushiage Moriawase (skewer platter)," "Motsuyaki Moriawase (roast giblets platter)," "Yakimono Moriawase (grilled food platter)," "Tempura Moriawase (tempura platter)," "Agemono Moriawase (fried food platter)," "Wiener Moriawase (Vienna sausage platter)," "Cheese Moriawase (cheese platter)," and "Tsukemono Moriawase (pickled food platter)." You can also ask for "Kyo no Moriawase (Today's recommended platter)."When ordering a "Moriawase" or "Kyo no Osusume," inform the staff of any foods you cannot eat. Writing it down and handing it over can be helpful if you don't speak Japanese. If you have favorite foods, mention them first, and they may be included in the platter. Expensive items like sea urchins and abalone are rarely included in a "Sashimi Moriawase" and must be ordered separately.Check out my blog post https://wix.to/wF0vfbJ#newblogpost#izakaya#kagurazaka

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What Is Izakaya? Basic Tips for Foreigners Part 2In Cases Where There is Only a Japanese MenuThe biggest problem for foreigners who can't read Japanese is how to place an order when they enter an izakaya with only Japanese menus. Not only izakayas, but many restaurants in Japan do not have foreign language menus.For example, according to Japan's largest gourmet site 'Tabelog,' only 2.6% (22,704 out of 863,620) of registered restaurants nationwide have English menus. For izakayas, this ratio slightly increases to 5.8% (7,670 out of 131,871). However, even in Tokyo, only 12.3% (3,454 out of 28,153) of izakayas have English menus (as of the end of May 2024). As this data shows, most izakayas only have Japanese menus, making it difficult for foreigners who cannot read Japanese to place orders.So, what should foreigners do if they find themselves in an izakaya with only a Japanese menu? We will provide solutions. Here are some basic tips for foreigners about izakayas.Basic Tips for Foreigners about Izakayas: Ordering from Japanese MenusSolution 1First, many foreigners practice pointing to a menu with photos and ordering or asking izakaya staff for assistance.If there are pictures on the menu, you can order the food you want by pointing to the images. However, some izakayas have daily recommended menus written on paper or on the wall without photos.Many izakayas with photo menus are chain stores. I recommend going to privately owned stores rather than chain stores, as they offer a more authentic experience. If you're looking for a photo menu and find one, foreign-speaking staff will likely help you order. However, not all staff can speak a foreign language, making communication difficult and ordering a challenge.Therefore, "Solution 1" depends on the izakaya. There is only a solution if you find a photo menu or foreign-speaking staff.In the next blog post, I will introduce Solution 2 with basic tips for foreigners. Continuing from before, I will highlight tips and tricks for enjoying izakayas. I personally love izakayas and have taken many of my foreign friends to them. I will share the things I've noticed as well as the points many of my foreign friends have mentioned. Please look forward to the upcoming blog posts.Check out my blog post https://wix.to/gAyfyfU#newblogpost#kagurazaka#izakaya

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What Is Izakaya? Basic Tips for Foreigners Part 1Izakaya is Japanese Food CultureIf a foreigner comes to Japan for a sightseeing trip, I recommend going to an "Izakaya." Izakaya is a place where you can eat a variety of foods, and many of them are reasonably priced. Of course, there are various types of alcohol. I also love izakaya and have been to many izakayas all over Japan.What Is Izakaya?What Is Izakaya? Izakaya is considered a restaurant similar to a pub, tapas bar, or tavern. However, compared to these establishments, which primarily serve alcoholic beverages, the izakaya, with its extensive meal menus, is unique to Japan. Like karaoke, izakaya can be considered a part of Japanese culture, and this can be understood in English. In other words, izakaya is the best place to learn and experience Japanese food culture. The Japan Tourism Agency also recommends that foreign tourists visit izakayas.History of IzakayaIzakaya is said to have started in the Edo period (1603-1868). Initially, they mainly served alcohol, similar to pubs, tapas bars, and taverns. At first, liquor stores only served sake, but izakayas began offering appetizers with the alcohol. Over time, the types of meals provided by izakayas increased.However, there are some things that foreigners should be aware of when going to an izakaya. I would like to highlight tips and tricks for enjoying izakayas in my upcoming blog posts. I personally love izakayas and have taken many of my foreign friends to them. I will share the things I've noticed as well as the points many of my foreign friends have mentioned. Please look forward to the upcoming blog posts.Check out my blog post https://wix.to/bYiwGvh#newblogpost#izakaya#kagurazaka

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What Does a Geisha Do?: The History of Geisha Part 2 (From the Meiji Era Onwards)The Evolution of Geisha Districts from the Meiji to Showa EraWhen the Edo period ended, and the Meiji era began (1868-1912), the practice of indentured servitude for Geisha was abolished, and their debts were forgiven, making them free individuals. New regulations known as the "Kashiseki Tosei Kisoku" and "Geigi Kisoku" were established, allowing anyone who wished to become a Geisha to apply for and receive a license. These regulations led to the creation of new geisha districts across Japan. The six geisha districts that still remain today—Shinbashi, Akasaka, Yoshicho (Nihonbashi Ningyocho), Kagurazaka, Asakusa, and Mukojima—were also established.The Meiji government, aiming to modernize the nation, organized and regulated the geisha districts for better tax management. The top-ranking districts were Shinbashi and Yanagibashi. Shinbashi, located near government offices, became particularly popular among government officials, leading to its growth. Some Shinbashi Geisha even became the wives of high-ranking government officials, distinguishing them from their counterparts in Yanagibashi. The cultural expectations for Geisha in Shinbashi deepened as they hosted many tea parties for wealthy businessmen and government officials.The Akasaka geisha district also saw remarkable development from the Meiji era to the early Showa era (1926-1989). Unlike Shinbashi, which catered to government officials and politicians, Akasaka thrived by serving military personnel.The Flourishing of Kagurazaka: A Leading Geisha District in TokyoThe Kagurazaka geisha district also flourished after the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923 (Taisho 12), as it was spared from significant damage. Known as the "Yamanote (Uptown) Ginza," Kagurazaka became one of Tokyo's most prominent entertainment districts. By the late 1930s (Showa 12-13), Kagurazaka housed about 600 Geisha and entertainers and around 150 traditional restaurants, making it one of the most influential geisha districts in Tokyo. Hōkan, also known as taikomochi or male Geisha, played a role in supporting Geisha at banquets.Check out my blog post https://wix.to/ku5nC9F#newblogpost#kagurazaka#kagurazakatokyo#traditionalexperience#geishajapan

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Learn Kumihimo Terminology and Deepen Your Understanding of KumihimoDiscover the 1,400-Year-Old Art of Kumihimo and Its Unique Terminology in Kagurazaka, ShinjukuKumihimo, which originated from mainland China, has a history of 1,400 years. This ancient craft has developed its own unique set of terms over the centuries. You can better understand this intricate art by studying these terms and experiencing Kumihimo-making. Additionally, understanding Kumihimo terminology will help you appreciate the complexity and depth of Kumihimo creation. Learn these terms and visit Kagurazaka, Shinjuku, to experience Kumihimo-making firsthand. It will surely be a memorable experience.Check out my blog post https://wix.to/bBwg8TW#newblogpost#experiencejapan#kagurazaka#kagurazakatokyo#traditionalexperience#geishajapan#ukiyoe#zenmeditation#travelrental#samue#kumihimo

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Learn About the History and Beauty of Kumihimo in Kagurazaka, ShinjukuDiscover the 1,400-Year History and Unique Craft of Kumihimo in JapanJapanese Kumihimo (braided cords) have a history of 1,400 years since they were introduced from mainland China. After their introduction, Kumihimo developed into a unique craft unlike anything else in the world. The techniques for creating intricate and delicate designs within a single, thin cord have been perfected over the centuries.Kumihimo has become deeply embedded in Japanese culture, used to tie things together, secure clothing, and as decorative elements for items like samurai swords.The Unique Art of Kumihimo: Crafting Intricate Designs from a Single LineThe most distinctive feature of Kumihimo is its ability to create one-dimensional lines. While paintings and textiles are two-dimensional and architecture and sculptures are three-dimensional, Kumihimo is a craft that produces the most primitive and universal form: a single line.However, when viewed more closely, this single line contains countless interwoven threads. For example, an average obijime (a cord used to tie an obi) consists of more than 50,000 silk threads. These threads create multiple layered structures that ultimately form a single cord.Check out my blog post https://wix.to/Lm6rHZS#newblogpost#artisanexperience#artisanexperienceinjapan#experiencejapan#kagurazaka#kagurazakatokyo#traditionalexperience#geishajapan#ukiyoe#travelrental#samue#kumihimo

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Did You Know You Can View Fireflies in Kagurazaka, Central Tokyo?Fireflies Are Coming to Kagurazaka, Central Tokyo in JulyDid you know that you can enjoy firefly viewing in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku ward, in central Tokyo? This year, fireflies will be coming to Canal Café once again. Fireflies are insects known for their bioluminescence, and in Japan, they are commonly referred to as Genji Fireflies (Nipponoluciola cruciata). These adult fireflies emerge in early summer, making fireflies a symbol of the summer season in Japan.As a result of efforts to purify the moat of Edo Castle, Canal Café has become a place where fireflies are born and raised each year starting in late June. To coincide with the time when fireflies start to dance, adult fireflies will be released on the deck side of Canal Café. In 2024, the firefly viewing events are scheduled for July 5th (Fri), 6th (Sat), 12th (Fri), and 13th (Sat).Check out my blog post https://wix.to/yAGIgbl#newblogpost#kagurazaka#kagurazakatokyo#firefly

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Why Do Geisha in Tokyo Not Wear White Makeup? The Difference from Kyoto's GeikoAre There No Geisha in Kyoto!?Foreign tourists often ask, "Are there Geisha in Tokyo as well as Kyoto?" The answer is, "There are no Geisha in Kyoto, but there are Geisha in Tokyo." This is a common misconception, even among Japanese people.In the Kanto region, which includes Tokyo, the term "Geisha" refers to "Geigi" (professional female entertainers), and apprentices are called "Hangyoku" or "Oshaku." In contrast, in Kyoto and other areas outside Tokyo, professional female entertainers are called "Geiko," and apprentices are called "Maiko." Therefore, there are Geisha in Tokyo and Geiko in Kyoto. "Geigi" is a general term for both Geisha and Geiko, referring to women who entertain guests with songs, dance, and music during banquets.Do You Know Why Geisha Do Not Wear White Makeup?Not all Geisha (Geigi) wear white makeup. In Tokyo, Geisha wear white makeup during formal occasions, such as New Year's celebrations, but they do not wear it during regular banquets. Additionally, during formal occasions, while apprentices (Hangyoku) use their natural hair, Geisha wear wigs.One reason Tokyo Geisha do not wear white makeup during regular banquets is to avoid attracting attention when walking with VIPs from political and business circles. White makeup would draw attention to both the Geisha and the VIP, potentially revealing the identity of the VIP attending incognito. In contrast, in Kyoto, where the patrons are often heads of small and medium-sized enterprises, Geiko often wear white makeup until around the age of 30.Check out my blog post https://wix.to/jaWUs58#newblogpost#artisanexperience#artisanexperienceinjapan#experiencejapan#kagurazaka#kagurazakatokyo#traditionalexperience#geishajapan

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