Shigyoshiki 2016

Yesterday, a very special event took place in Miyagawacho Hanamachi Kaburenjo. It is Shigyoshiki and it is the most important event in new year. Better to say that its annual traditional opening ceremony in Kyoto Hanamachi, the ceremony that marks the start of another year. Geiko and Maiko gather at their hanamachi theatrers wearing formal black kimono called Kuromontsuki and renew their vows for the new year. This is one of the few occasions when all of them are gathered together and presents a rare photo opportunity!

The First part of the event was the first dance of the year. Maiko and Geiko of Hanafusa okiya danced a special dance with golden fan in their hands. This dance was dedicated to Karyukai and all people that are anyhow connected to Miyagawacho Hanamachi. The second part was vows and first speech of the year by Okaasan Kikuyu

Okaasan Geiko Kikuyu played the main role in Shigyoshiki. Her speech and vow was perfect. She spoke with great dignity of Miyagawacho Geiko and Okaasan. Truly, she's the best example for her daughters and other members of Second Life Karyukai.

Atatori Sr Maiko Kikutsuru entered the kaburenjo right after okaasan Kikuyu. Her kuromontsuki had hand-painted scenery on it and was eye-catching! She was also proud of the achievements of two of her imoutos and that has reflected on her vow.

It was also kind of first Shigyoshiki for 2nd maiko of Hanafusa okiya. Maiko Kikumaru entered the kaburenjo wearing beautiful peacock kuromontsuki, white collar that has red on the back and with her hair styled in Sr maiko hairstyle called Yakko Shimada!This means that Hanafusa okiya from now on has two Senior maiko: Maiko Kikutsuru and her imouto Maiko Kikumaru. Omedetou Kikumaru san!

Maiko Kikuyumi, who had her debut in November, looks so stunning in her kuromontsuki! It was her first Shigyoshiki. She was very nervous before it but when the time came for her to vow she spoke with confidence, like did her oneesan.

Little Kokoro chan, shikomi of Hanafusa okiya, also joined this event. She gracefully welcomed guests and patrons to this important event and showed the reserved seats. It was first time for her to join the event this important and she played her role really well.

After the ceremony, everyone was offered ceremonial sake to drink for new year, new possibilities, new ozashiki and of course prosperity of Miyagawacho Hanamachi and Hanafusa okiya.