Comparing Japanese Geishas to Western Prostitutes

Most Westerners assume that geishas are simply prostitutes in another cultural form; however that belief is not true. In the Japanese language the word geisha basically translates into “Arts Person.” “Gei” means art or performance with “Sha” meaning people, in short Geisha are traditional Japanese artist-entertainers they are also basically highly skilled hostesses. They are trained to entertain guests through many of the traditional Japanese arts such as ancient dance, singing, playing the shamisen (a stringed Japanese instrument), kimono wearing, ancient tea ceremonies, calligraphy, conversation, and alcohol presentation. (Graham (Diaz), Naomi. "Immortal geisha", web) Geisha were traditionally trained from childhood. Geisha houses often bought young girls from poor families, taking responsibility for raising and training them. During their childhood, apprentice geisha worked first as maids, then as assistants to the house 's senior geisha as part of their training to contribute to the costs of their upkeep and education. This long-held tradition of training still exists in Japan. There a student lives at the home of a master of one of the traditional arts, starting out doing general housework, observing and assisting the master. She eventually moves up to become a master in her own right . This training often lasts for many years. The course of study traditionally starts from a young age and encompasses a wide variety of the arts, including Japanese musical instruments (particularly the shamisen, similar to a guitar) and traditional forms of singing, dance, tea ceremonies, flower arranging known as ikebana, poetry and literature. Each Geisha is normally a master of one art form. By watching and assisting a senior geisha, they became skilled in the complex traditions surrounding selecting, matching, wearing the precious kimono, participation in various games, the art of conversation, and also in dealing with clients. (Graham, "Immortal geisha", web) Once a

Cited: Page Iwasaki, Mineko. Geisha: A Life. New York: ATRIA Books, 2002. Graham (Diaz), Naomi. "Immortal geisha". 4/20/2010 http://www.immortalgeisha.com/faq_geisha.php Mahalo.com Incorporated, "Mustang Ranch". 4/20/2010 . "Nevada Brothels". 4/20/2010 .