🌸 Congratulations to Kikushino-san from Hanafusa Okiya on Becoming a Geiko! 🌸

🎉 A heartfelt congratulations to Kikushino-san from Hanafusa Okiya on officially becoming a Geiko! 🎉

Her Erikae ceremony, marking the transition from Maiko to Geiko, is a significant milestone in her journey. After years of dedication, Kikushino-san has mastered the fine art of dance, music, and etiquette that defines Kyoto’s traditional performing arts.

As a Maiko, Kikushino-san impressed us with her elegance, skill, and grace, always embodying the beauty of Kyoto’s culture. Now, stepping into her new role as a Geiko, she will continue to refine her craft, bringing even more depth and artistry to her performances.

This achievement is not only a personal triumph but a proud moment for Hanafusa Okiya, and the Kyoto arts community. We look forward to seeing all the wonderful things Kikushino-san will bring to the world of Geiko in the years to come.

Let’s all wish Kikushino-san continued success and joy as she begins this exciting new chapter. 🌸👘✨

Erikae of Kikushino (Sat. Nov. 30th - 8 am SLT)

¸.•*¨*`•.¸Geiko Announcement¸.•*¨*`•.¸

As November comes to a close, we are thrilled to invite you to a momentous occasion — the Official Geiko Debut of Kikushino from Hanafusa Okiya! After more than six years of dedication, discipline, and artistry, Kikushino has reached the pinnacle of her training and is stepping into the next chapter of her journey as a full-fledged Geiko-san (^__^).

This is a celebration of not just her remarkable transformation, but also the rich tradition and beauty of the Geiko world. Come witness the culmination of years of hard work and grace as Kikushino takes her place among the esteemed Geiko of Kyoto.

We can't wait to share this unforgettable moment with you. See you there!

Time of your arrival
7.50 am SLT
Duration 80 minutes

Taxi: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Kyoto/231/181/31

Shikomi Amai

Shikomi Amai

  ══.💮.︎Watashi no namae wa Amai desu.💮︎.══

My father, Hiroshi Yamamoto, owns a traditional onsen nestled in the peaceful mountains of Hakone. Growing up, I often watched him maintain the baths meticulously, ensuring every guest experienced relaxation and rejuvenation. My mother, Emiko Yamamoto, was a renowned geiko in Gion before dedicating herself to our family business. Her grace and elegance brought a unique charm to our onsen, and she often performed dances for our guests, captivating them with her skill.

Inspired by my parents' dedication, I pursued my dream of becoming a geiko apprentice. Leaving our small onsen behind, I traveled through Kyoto, visiting many okiya. When I arrived at Hanafusa Okiya, I knew this was where I belonged. Here, I found a place where I could devote my heart and soul, continuing the legacy of grace and beauty instilled in me by my parents.

Shikomi Shion

Shikomi Shion of Hanafusa okiya

   ︵‿︵‿︵‿︵（🪻）‿︵‿︵‿︵‿

         Watashi no namae wa Shion desu.

                     My name is Shion.

   ︵‿︵‿︵‿︵（🪻）‿︵‿︵‿︵‿

Born in Kobe, Shion was involved in the performing arts from a young age - and she hated it.

Her mother was vicariously living her dreams of becoming a idol sensation through her daughter, signing Shion up as a children’s idol. She was a very shy girl at that age, and developed a habit of never listening to music unless she had to.

This habit was broken during a family holiday to Kyoto. Passing through a department store, she saw a crowd huddled around an empty stage. Something compelled her to wander away from her parents and take a look.

As the geimaiko arrived on stage and began, Shion found herself enraptured. This performance was not loud, boisterous and fake - each move was perfected down to the minutiae, and the music progression was simple yet played with talent and grace. The performer’s façade was focused on expressing a story to the audience, although it was too complicated for little Shion to fully understand.

She knew this was what she wanted to do.

Gion Kouta festival (2024)

 The Gion Kouta Festival is a beloved event that honors the iconic Gion Kouta song, a symbol of Gion's rich cultural heritage. During the festival, Maiko and Geiko place flowers in front of the Gion Kouta monument to pay tribute to this song, which holds great significance for both the district and its performers.

This year, Maiko Kikuyae and Maiko Kikushino took part in the celebration, accompanied by two Shikomi-san from Hanafusa Okiya. Maiko Kikushino wore a formal 5-crest kuromontsuki kimono and had her hair styled in the sakkou fashion, signaling that she is nearing her Geiko debut—a milestone that will soon be celebrated.

Following the ceremony, an Ozashiki was held at Ichirikitei Tea House, where guests gathered to continue the celebration in a more intimate setting. The Gion Kouta Festival is a beautiful reminder of Gion's history, the traditions of Maiko and Geiko, and the legacy that continues to be passed down

Maiko Kikuyae, Maiko Kikushino and Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru posing in front of the 
Gion Kouta monument

Maiko Kikuyae and Maiko Kikushino performing Geion Kouta at
Ichiriki tea house on Kyoto Kagai sim

Maiko Kikushino is now wearing Sakkou!

Congratulations to Maiko Kikushino, who is now wearing Sakkou hairstyle!

In the world of traditional Japanese culture, the maiko (apprentice geisha) undergoes several distinct phases, one of the most visually striking being the sakkou hairstyle. This elegant and elaborate style is worn by maiko before their erikae ceremony, which marks their transition into a full-fledged geisha.

The sakkou is a highly decorative hairstyle, characterized by an upright bun placed at the top of the head, often adorned with ornate hairpins known as kanzashi. The style is designed to reflect youth, beauty, and grace, representing the maiko’s early stage in her career. The voluminous bun gives the appearance of a young woman in training, full of potential and promise.

When a maiko reaches a certain level of skill and maturity, she undergoes the erikae ceremony, where her hairstyle changes to the more refined wig styled in elegant shimada style. The sakkou hairstyle is a brief but important part of a maiko's journey, symbolizing the beginning of her career and her dedication to the traditional arts

Maiko Kikushino peforming "Kurokami" - the final dance of a Maiko
Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru is playing the shamisen

Maiko Kikushino peforming "Kurokami" - the final dance of a Maiko
Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru is playing the shamisen

Maiko Kikushino performing Kurokami, dressed in her pre sakkou attire, is expected to become a Geiko at the end of November 2024

 

🍁 Mizuekai Was a Success! 🍁

A huge thank you to everyone who supported Mizuekai! The event was a beautiful celebration of Kyoto’s tradition, with stunning performances that captivated all. We couldn’t have done it without your encouragement and presence.

We look forward to more memorable moments like this in the future! 🍂✨

🍁 Mizuekai 2024 is coming soon! 🍁

 

Dear guests and patrons,

Kyoto Kagai Sim is proud to present annual Autumn performance - Mizuekai. This popular six scenes odori, performed by members of Komayaka and Hanafusa okiyas, is not only display eloquent, authentic kyo mai dances but also proudly present poetical talents of geiko san, maiko san and minarai san of Kyoto Kagai sim.

For those who are visiting this blog for the first time, Mizuekai (みずゑ會)  is an annual event at which the Miyagawacho geiko and maiko display the traditional performance techniques of the Wakayagi style of Kyomai dance, to the study of which their daily lives are devoted. 

We sincerely welcome You to come enjoy an elegant performance of Japanese classics, performed by maiko and geiko who have trained diligently all year for this recital

Date: Saturday, 19th of October

Time: 10 am slt

Taxi: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Kyoto/193/205/31

If you would like to display this years Mizuekai poster at your sim or shop, please contact Geiko Kikumaru (belliebeth) inworld. 

Important news!

Great news! Maiko Kikushino of Hanafusa Okiya is now wearing the elegant Yakko Shimada hairstyle. This is a significant step that hints at an upcoming Erikae celebration, where she will be transforming from a Maiko into a Geiko by the end of the year. Isn’t that thrilling?

The Yakko Shimada is typically worn by Maiko for about a month before they switch to the Sakkou hairstyle, serving as a beautiful prelude to their final Maiko appearance. 

In addition to her new hairstyle, Kikushino is donning a stunning Hikizuri (the long trailing kimono). The gorgeous blue color features a traditional pine design, representing resilience and longevity. While the kimono is vibrant and colorful, it also incorporates the crest of Hanafusa Okiya, making it a formal and distinguished attire.

Let’s all wish Maiko Kikushino the best of luck on this incredible journey! Her transformation marks not only a personal milestone but also a celebration of the rich traditions of Kyoto's geisha culture. Stay tuned for more updates on her Erikae celebration and the beautiful artistry that comes with it!

What a stunning ensemble!

Collecting Goshuin with the Hanafusa Family – Summer of 202

This summer, the Hanafusa family—Geiko Kiktsuru, Geiko Kikumaru, Maiko Kikushino, and Maiko Kikuyae—took part in a special journey through Second Life, collecting Goshuin from the SL's most sacred shrines and temples.

For those unfamiliar, Goshuin are unique stamps, often with beautiful calligraphy, that are given at temples and shrines to commemorate a visit. Each stamp is a piece of art, representing the spiritual significance of the place. The journey through Second Life's sites was made even more meaningful with the presence of the Hanafusa family, who brought their deep understanding of Kyoto's traditions and culture.

Every stop brought a new experience—whether it was a calm mountain shrine or a bustling temple in the heart of the sim. Each Goshuin collected had its own distinct design and blessing, a reflection of the unique energy of the location.

from left to right:
Geiko Kikumaru, Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru,
Maiko Kikushino and Maiko Kikuyae of Hanafusa okiya (SL)

Tsukimi Ozashiki

Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru playing the
shamisen

 Just last week, under the soft glow of the harvest moon (Otsukimi), Kyoto’s Kagai sim hosted an enchanting ozashiki banquet. 

Maiko Kikushino and Geiko Kikumaru from Hanafusa okiya danced with elegance, their movements reflecting the beauty of the autumn night. Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru, with her shamisen, set the perfect tone, filling the air with melodies that seemed to dance with the moonlight itself. 

Guests were captivated by tales of the rabbit on the moon, said to be busy making mochi—adding a whimsical twist to the evening's grace and tradition. 

It was truly a night to remember!

Maiko Kikushino (Hanafusa okiya)

Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru(shamisen), Maiko Kikushino and Geiko Kikumaru

Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru(shamisen), Maiko Kikushino and Geiko Kikumaru

Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru(shamisen), Maiko Kikushino and Geiko Kikumaru

Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru(shamisen), Maiko Kikushino and Geiko Kikumaru

Geiko Kikumaru perfomin "Yuugure"

Geiko Kikutsuru and Geiko Kikumaru

Maiko Kikushino performing a dance during Tsukimi ozashiki at Kyoto Kagai sim

A Summers day by the Kamogawa

Spending a summer day by the Kamogawa River in Kyoto Kagai sim is pure magic. The sun’s warmth on your skin, the cool breeze brushing through the trees, and the calming sound of the water flowing gently beside you—it’s the perfect place to pause and take in the beauty of the city. People gather along the banks, some enjoying quiet moments, others sharing laughter with friends, while the distant view of the mountains adds a peaceful backdrop. 

It’s also a chance to see the graceful Maiko and Geiko from the nearby Kagai, dressed in their beautiful kimonos, entertaining guests with their elegance and charm. Whether they’re strolling along the river or performing traditional games and music, their presence adds a special touch to this already enchanting place✨

There’s something timeless about this place, where nature and city life come together in such harmony. A true Kyoto experience in Second Life 🌞✨

Let's enjoy summer at Kyoto Kagai sim with
Maiko and Geiko!

🌸 Yukatakai Was a Success! 🌸

Thank you so much for all your support during this year’s Yukatakai! It was an unforgettable night, filled with beautiful performances, stunning yukata, and the elegance of Maiko and Geiko from Hanafusa and Komayaka okiya from Kyoto Kagai sim. We’re so grateful for everyone who joined us and made this event extra special.

Looking forward to more moments like this in the future! 🌿✨

Gion Matsuri!

 Dear Readers of the Hanafusa Okiya Blog,

As part of the vibrant Kyoto Kagai community, our sim and its Maiko and Geiko members are honored to participate in the magical celebrations of the Gion Matsuri each year. Following the Hanagasa Junko parade, Maiko from Miyagawacho take to the stage to perform the stunning Konchiki Ondo. This dance, named after the distinctive Konchiki rhythm from the Gion Bayashi folk music, is a true highlight of the festival.

The Maiko wear delicate white kimono, adorned with a beautiful pink Hakata-ori obi (a traditional woven textile). The knot is tied in the elegant Ushiromi Musubi style, adding to the grace of their movements. In their hands, they hold uchiwa fans featuring the iconic crests of the Gion Matsuri and the Yasaka Shrine, further connecting the performance to the spirit of the festival.

After the dance, guests had the opportunity to capture unforgettable moments, posing for photos with the members of Hanafusa and Komayaka Okiya. It was a wonderful celebration of culture, tradition, and the beauty of Kyoto’s summer festivities!

Thank you for following along with our journey through the Gion Matsuri! 🌸✨

July Tanabata Picnic at Kyoto Kagai sim!

An unforgettable time at the July Tanabata Picnic! Geiko and Maiko from Hanafusa Okiya entertained our lovely guests and patrons, sharing good food, laughter, and the magic of Tanabata—a festival where we celebrate the meeting of Orihime and Hikoboshi, two star-crossed lovers separated by the Milky Way. On this special day, people write wishes on colorful paper and hang them on bamboo trees, hoping for love and happiness.

It was a day filled with Kyoto traditions, fun, and beautiful moments. We’re so grateful to have shared this special celebration with everyone and to be part of such a cherished tradition! ✨

from left to right:
Geiko Kikumaru, Okaasan Geiko Kikutsuru, Maiko Kikuyae and Maiko Kikushino

Yukatakai 2024 is coming soon!

Dear friends and patrons, great news! 

In just a few days, the highly anticipated Yukatakai (Summer Dances) will take place in Kyoto Kagai Sim! This vibrant event brings together the grace and beauty of the Maiko and Geiko, showcasing their stunning summer yukata and intricate performances.

It’s a wonderful celebration of Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage, where traditional dance, music, and the elegance of the Geiko and Maiko come to life under the summer sky. Whether you're attending for the first time or have seen it before, Yukatakai is always a magical experience that captures the heart of Kyoto’s summer spirit.

On Saturday 27th of July Geiko and Maiko of Komayaka and Hanafusa okiya will perform in the Summer odori - Yukata Kai. You are welcome to come enjoy this 6 act performance.

･:*:･ﾟ☆   Time of arrival: 09.45 am slt

･:*:･ﾟ☆　Time odori begin: 10.00 am slt

･:*:･ﾟ☆　Time odori ends: 11.00 am slt

･:*:･ﾟ☆    Your taxi: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Kyoto/193/205/31

After the performance you can take photos with Maiko san and Geiko san. During performance you may take pictures as long as they do not interfere the performance.

In case you would like to receive a poster, please contact Geiko Kikumaru(belliebeth) inworld.

Beer Garder is back! 🍺

Summer in Kyoto Kagai sim means one thing—Beer Garden season is back! 🌿✨ At Kyoto Kagai sim, guests can enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious bites in a laid-back, festive atmosphere.

Adding to the charm, Maiko and Geiko grace the event dressed in stunning summer yukata. Their lively conversations, games, and graceful presence make the evenings unforgettable.

You will enjoy not only refreshing drinks but also elegant dances by Maiko and Geiko

Would you like to join us? 🥂

🎉 Happy Birthday, Second Life! 🎉

🌟 LONG LIVE SECOND LIFE! 🌟

Today, we celebrate not just another year of this incredible virtual world, but the countless stories, friendships, and creativity it has inspired. From cherished memories to endless possibilities, Second Life is a place where dreams are built and connections thrive. 💖

Maiko and Geiko from Hanafusa and Komayaka okiya were honored to perform traditional dances, sharing the elegance and beauty of Kyoto’s cultural heritage to mark this special occasion. With grace, our performances brought the spirit of the okiya to life and celebrated Second Life’s vibrant community. 🌸✨

Thank you for being more than just a platform—Second Life is a home where people can explore, create, and share their worlds. Here’s to all the incredible moments so far and the exciting adventures still to come! 🥂🎉

🌿 Ozashiki by the Kamogawa in June 🌿

In the warmth of early summer, an ozashiki was held at a charming tea house with a platform overlooking the Kamogawa River. The gentle breeze and the soothing sound of the flowing water created the perfect atmosphere to relax and refresh.

The evening was made even more special by the graceful performances of Maiko and Geiko from Hanafusa Okiya, whose elegant dances captivated the guests. The combination of tradition, nature, and artistry made this gathering truly unforgettable. 🌸✨

Ozashiki also means Ozashiki Asobi! (Games)

Maiko Kikuyae and Kikushino performing for the guests

Geiko Kikumaru perfoming in front of the guests

New Senior Maiko Kikuyae posing with her senior sister Kikushino inside the Hanafusa Okiya Genkan

Maiko Kikushino(beige) and Maiko Kikuyae(green)