Konchiki Ondo 2020

Dear reader of Hanafusa okiya blog,

As in rl Kyoto Kagai, our sim as well as it's maiko and geiko members, take part in Gion Matsuri celebrations. Every year after the Hanagasa Junko parade, Maiko san from Miyagawacho perform a dance called Konchiki ondo. The name of the dance comes from distinctive Konchiki chain of Gion Bayashi folk music. They wore special white thin kimono with hakata obi (obi sash with hakata-ori textile) which was pink against a white background in Ushiromi musubi (a way of knotting the obi sash) style. In their hands they hold an uchiwa fan with crests of the Gion festival and the Yasaka shrine.

This year Maiko Kikushino was spotted wearing Yakko Shimada for the first time. This hairtyle is reserved for the senior maiko but in Miyagawacho, when a girl is close to her mizuage she can get a special permission to start switching to more senior kimono and hanakanzashi. Her main hairstyle will remain Warshinobu until after the mizuage.

After the dance, guests were able to make memorable photos with members from Hanafusa okiya.

This year's performers were Geiko Kikutsuru, Geiko Kikumaru, Maiko Kikune and Maiko Kikushino

Great opening of the Tomiyo Ochaya (Sat. 30 of May)

As the final cherry blossoms fall off its branch being replaced by wisteria trees, we are honored to welcome you to the Grand opening of Tomiyo ochaya located in the Higashiyama ward.
During the opening you will be welcomed by Geiko and Maiko san of Hanafusa okiya. Being served the best delicacies Kyoto has to offer, while enjoying the exquisite dance and poetry skills of Geiko and Maiko san. We hope to see you on May 30th for this rare and special event :)
Date: Saturday, 30th of May
Time: 10.30 am slt
LM: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Kyoto/22/220/31

Dear friends and patrons, please join us on this special occasion and please feel free to bring your
friends and family with you

Ozashiki celebrating Hina Matsuri

Geiko, Maiko and guests during Hina Matsuri 2020

It was a small celebration that took place during the busy week (wednesday, 4th of march). Maiko and Geiko from Hanafusa okiya prepared a feast for guests and patrons in Hanahusa ochaya. Several doll displays were set, so that visitors could admire and enjoy the atmosphere.

At Yasaka Jinja

During the ozahsiki guests learned about Hina matsui festival, what does it mean and how it is celebrated. The sotry was told by Geiko Kikutsuru.
After the event both Hanafusa okiya memebrs and guests visited Yasaka Jinja to pray for good life of girls and women of the world.

Setsubun at Kyoto Kagai sim (2020)

Setsubun is the day preceding risshun that is the first day of spring according to the old Japanese calendar. On the day of Setsubun, many celebrations are held. Especially in Kyoto Kagai SL. Maiko san and Geiko san from Hanafusa okiya, dressed in their formal attire, danced sacred dances on the stage of the Yasaka Jinja shrine. After the dance, they participated in ancient auspicious custom of throwing roasted soybeans. While throwing they chanted: “In with Fortune! Out with Evil” in order to prevent evil ogres from entering the houses of the guests and patrons of the Kyoto Kagai.

P.S. if you eat the same number of beans as your age you will have a year of good health! Itadakimasu!!

Participants: Geiko Kikutsuru, Maiko Kikune and Maiko Kikushino

Setsubun Matsuri - Sunday Feb. 2nd @ 11:00 am Slt

During Setsubun people throw beans,  (mamemaki) to cleanse away all evil of the former year and to chase away disease causing spirits (Oni). Remember to shout "Demons out! Luck in! (Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!) At this event you will see the maiko and Geiko in gorgeous kimonos as they dance to beautiful poetry.  This is a festival to welcome the coming of Spring. We hope you will help us as we help you, to have a wonderful new year of good luck and health

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Kyoto/167/237/34

Shigyoshiki Kitsuke of Hanafusa okiya memebers

"Shigyoshiki" refers to the beginning of a new year in Kyoto's five hanamachi or "flower towns". Wearing black formal kimono, called Kuromontsuki, the Geiko and Maiko of the neighborhood renew their vows and visit the local ochaya(teahouses) and important patrons to wish the beginning of a prosperous new year. Many beautiful pieces were spotted and it was decided to write a post that would focus on the formal kitsuke worn during the Shigyoshiki 2020 by Hanafusa Geiko and Maiko

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

For Shigyoshiki 2020 Okaasan Kikuyu has chosen a tomesode. Her tomesode features different elements such as green momiji leaves, matsu, chrysanthemums, pampas grass making this tomesode perfectly fit for the season. This formal maru obi is pink with silver tied carefully into otaiko style knot worn only during formal okasions
Her hair is in Yoohatsu style which basically means "western hairstyle" and made from geikos own hair. It is not as complicating as Maiko san's wareshinobu or ofuku, rather some simplified and mature, yet still need to be done by a professional hairdresser. You can often spot geiko wearing this type of hairstyle during the day or some jikata geiko during the events.
No juban elements are seen and on her feet okaasan is wearing comfortable golden zouri.

Geiko Kikutsuru's Kuromontsuki is one of a kind and has many multi-seasonal and eye-catching motifs that are hand-painted - strong boats fighting the high waves, pine etc. It is tied with golden Darari obi, that not only gives the finishing touch the ensemble but also supports the back of geiko, as the kimono, especially formal kuromontsuki, are extremely heavy. No obijime or pocchiri are worn with formal outfit.
The wig Kikutsuru san is wearing in japanese is called Katsura, and it is styled in Geiko Shimada style. For formal events, kanzashi hairpins that are used for decorating katsura, are made from most precious and luxurious materials, such as tortoiseshell, gold, expensive stones etc. Tortoiseshell kanzashi are most unique and antique as nowadays the craftsmen that work with this material are almost non-existant.

It is first Shyoshiki for Geiko Kikumaru san so as a fresh geiko she is wearing full geiko set with kuromontsuki and oshiroi. Her formal black kimono features tsuru(cranes) flying upon the waves. It is tied with white and golden obi that has fan flower motif. Geiko's obi (apr. 440 cm long) are bit longer than simple women's obi. Also, for geiko's obi, patterns are created upside down, so when it is tied in Geiko Taiko knot, the pattern will have the correct position, facing upwards.
She is wearing a katsura wig, same as her oneesan Geiko Kikutsuru. Kikumaru san has decoraed it with Bekko (tortoiseshell) comb that features mon of Hanafusa okiya, Bekko Kogai at the back and a traditional dove and rice maezashi (worn only a small period of time during January). Though worn by both Maiko and Geiko, these maezashi are placed on different sides of the hairstyle.

During Shigyoshiki guests and patrons could witness Maiko Kikune san for the first time as senior maiko. Her Kuromontsuki has many lucky as well as multi-seasonal motifs that are hand-painted - ox-drawn carriages, chrysanthemums, waves, peonies, plum blossoms, pine, summer grasses etc. It is tied with golden Darari obi, that not only gives the finishing touch the ensemble but also supports the back of maiko, as the kimono, especially formal kuromontsuki, are extremely heavy. No obijime or pocchiri are worn with formal outfit.
Formal wear also means that Senior maiko will change from ofuku hairstyle to Yakko Shimada. This is also first time Kikune san wears this hairtyle. As well as geiko san, Maiko san too are given opportunity of wearing gorgeous and expensive kanzashi - if you look at the hair of Kikutsuru san, you can notice Bekko Kushi (comb) with Hanafusa okiya mon, Bekkou Hirauchi, Jade Tama, special January daikan (front) kanzashi, maezashi with bira oghi and small pin called bira dome. For Shigyoshiki both Junior and Senior maiko wear rice husk maezashi with eyeless dove - rice grains can be given to customers and are considered symbols good luck and fortune

As the youngest maiko in the okiya, Maiko Kikushino san wears most colorful and elaborate kuromontsuki in the okiya. This exact piece features seasonal flowers, leafs as well as many good luck motifs - everything hand-painted on the silk by a skilled master. The obi was carefully selected for this special event as is created with beige and golden silk threads. As junior maiko, she ties obiage cloth on the top of the obi, rather than seniors who tuck it into.
As she is still young maiko, her own hair is styled, even during formal events as Shigyoshiki, into Wareshinobu hairstyle. Decorated with elaborate bekkou kushi, Bekkou Hirauchi with coral Tama, carefully selected maezashi with seasonal hanakanzashi, more colorful than senior maiko. As for the rice husk maezashi with eyeless dove - not only grains bring luck, but also the eyeless dove has its special meaning - maiko or geiko fill in one eye and ask guest/very special person they like to draw the other for good luck in the coming year. This tradition differs from hanamachi to hanamachi, nevertheless it is considered as lucky charm.

Shigyoshiki in Kyoto Kaburenjo (2020)

Last week Kyoto Kagai sim hosted Shigyoshiki - annual traditional opening ceremony, that marks the start of another business year in the Karyukai. Geiko and Maiko of Hanafusa okiya gathered at Miyagawacho Kaburenjo theater, wearing most formal black kimono called Kuromontsuki and renewed their vows for the new year. This is one of the few occasions when patrons and guests can see all of Kagai members gathered together wearing full regalia.

Okaasan Kikuyu welcoming Guests, Patrons and Kagai Memebrs during Shigyoshiki 2020

At the beginning Okaasan Kikuyu welcomed guests as well as kagai members with an inspiring speech. After she welcomed maiko and geiko to enter the stage and present the vows. They entered in strict ranking: first geiko, than senior maiko, than junior maiko.

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

After the vows were pledged, maiko and geiko offered sake and, specially prepared for this event, osechi (traditional Japanese New Year foods).

A new year, a new beginning, an empty sheet of paper where you can write anything you wish for. We hope that 2020 will bring You, Your family and friends many delightful days, filled with joy and happiness. With gratitude in our hearts, we sincerely thank you for your support and humbly hope that You will continue to support us in the future "Yoroshiku otaomoshimasu" 

Shigyoshiki 2020 at Kyoto Kagai sim

Konnichiwa dear guests and patrons of Kyoto Kagai sim,
Maiko and Geiko of Hanafusa okiya invite You, Your family and friends to take part in one of the most important event in life of our sim - Shigyoshiki.
❀ Date: Saturday 11th of January
❀ Time: 11.00 am slt
Shigyoshiki is the annual (traditional) opening ceremony in Kyoto that marks the start of another year for Kyoto’s Geiko and Maiko. They gather in their local hanamachi wearing formal black kimono and renew their vows for the new year. The most successful members of the Kagai of the previous year for their district receive an award of excellence.
Following the ceremony, the Maiko and Geiko visit the local tea houses and business establishments to wish the start of an auspicious and prosperous new year.
❀ This years participants in Shigyoshiki are Okaasan Geiko Kikuyu, Geiko Kikutsuru, Geiko Kikumaru, Maiko Kikune and Maiko Kikushino
LM: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Kyoto/190/199/31
After the even we encourage you to taste the celebratory sake and take photos with Geiko and Maiko in their best attires :)

Kabuki play "The faithful wife" at Miyagawacho Kaburen-jo

Several days ago Miyagawacho Kaburen-jo theater held a premiere of Kabuki play "The faithful wife", written and staged by Maiko Kikuhino. This Kabuki play tells us story of 2 merchants, who made a bet that Yoshimitsu will seduce the wife of Ryuji, Yukiko. Yoshimitsu bribes Hoji, servant from Ryuji's household, to receive intimate details about Yukiko's body and her ring. Then, Yoshimitsu lies to Ryuji that he has slept with his wife, therefore he saw birthmark on her thigh and that she had given him her wedding ring as a token of her love. Ryuji rushed into the house questioning Yukiko, and after not being able to find the ring, he decides to get rid of her. He calls Hoji, his servant, tells him to take her into the woods and kill her. Hoji disobeys and leaves Yukiko to die in the winter forest, while bringing his master her blood soaked kimono with deer heart and lungs. Yukiko is saved by a Monk and is taken into the temple. After some time, she decides to leave and accidentaly onher way she saves the son of Lord Shibatsu, Shinji, who was attacked by bandits. She carefully takes care of him, until one day comes Lord Shibatsu himself and Shinji asks his father to thank this young lad (Yukiko disguised herself as a young man) for saving him. It is decided that Yukiko/Uki will now serve at the Lords mansion. When Lord Shibatsu, his son and Yukiko/Uki returned to the castle, they saw Ryuji san on his knees waiting for the Lords punishment for killing his innocent wife. Yukiko throws off her disguise and bows deeply before the Lord Shibatsu asking to show mercy on her husband. After seeing that how faithful the wife was to her husband, Lord Shibatsu lets the two lovers go...

The Kabuki play was a success! After the curtains went down, the audience thanked the talented actors with standing ovations.

🎭 Actors:

Geiko Kikumaru - Lord's Shibatsu son Shinji, Narrator

Maiko Kikune - Yoshimitsu(merchant), Komuso monk, Hoji

Maiko Kikushino - Ryuji(merchant), Lord Shibatsu 

Shikomi Junko - Wife of Ryuji Yukiko (Uki)

For those who wanted to come but didn't have a chance, Geiko Kikutsuru san took some amazing photos during the play. Please enjoy!

"All seemed well until one night Ryuji san bumped into an old acquaintance in the local chaya where they drink sake and dine after work ..."

"Ryuji san drew his sword and raised it poised to strike but was too cowardly to strike the blow himself ..."

"Hoji, now fearful for his life, knowing his master is plotting to kill him, sleeps with one eye open and sees a shadow slide past the half open shoji doors and as the light catches the flash of a sword is struck a glancing blow fleas in terror hearing the swish of the blade strike after strike around his ears fleas screaming into the night...."

"I came as quickly as i could when i heard the news that your party had been attacked and sent out soldiers to comb the surrounding area for those bandits, they wont get far..."

Actors are bowing towards the audience

Beer Garden Event

Event at the Beer Garden

One of the most popular event between the visitors, held at Kyoto Kagai sim during summer, is an event held at Beer Garden event, often known as Beer Garden Event. It is held in a open area with a small stag, where Maiko and Geiko perform. When guests come, they are able to taste different types of beer and snacks, and you do know that there is nothing better than a good beer in an icy cold mug when the summer heat is at its peak.
After drinking beer (or mugicha for those who do not like alcoholic beverages) and tasting delicious summer snacks, time has come for Maiko Kikune and Maiko Kikushino perform a dance and poem.
Both were self choreographer and self written, and guests admired the hard work and heart put into the performance.

Maiko Kikune and Kikushino performing a dance

The next event will be an ozashiki held on Saturday, 7th of September 11 am slt at GIon Higashi Chaya and we encourage You to come and enjoy the last month of summer in the cooling atmosphere of tea house located on the Kamo river.

Performance at Maiko Theater

Maiko Kikushino greeting guests

No matter the holidays, Kyoto Kagai continues to hold events. Last Sunday was no exception, as Geiko and Maiko of Hanafusa okiya performed for visitors at the Maiko Theater. "We'd like to encourage people to discover and learn about the life of Second life Geiko and Maiko san by meeting Hanafusa okiya members. As in RL, SL Karyukai is quite closed society, that is why we have decided to hold events, such as this, to promote and let guests feel free to ask questions, which they had but were shy to ask Geiko or Maiko. Either hairtyle or kimono, years of study or troubles of being SL Geiko - we will be happy to answer" - said Geiko Kikutsuru.
Maiko Kikushino gracefully greeted guests and led them towards the seats where her older sisters prepared for the performance behind the curtain.
When all guests and visitors were seated, she joined her neesan and the performance began. Two dances were performed - both choreographer and written by Geiko Kikumaru.
After Geiko and Maiko finished performing, they sat on the stage and waited excitedly for the questions about their life and careers.

from left to right: Maiko Kikune(pink), Geiko Kikumaru(beige), Geiko Kikutsuru(green)
Photo by Shikomi Amaya

 from left to right: Maiko Kikune(pink), Geiko Kikumaru(beige), Geiko Kikutsuru(green) and Maiko Kikushino(navy blue)
Photo by Shikomi Amaya

from left to right: Maiko Kikune(pink), Geiko Kikumaru(beige), Geiko Kikutsuru(green) and Maiko Kikushino(navy blue)
Photo by Shikomi Amaya

Obon celebrations 2019

"Bon Odori" at Kyoto Kagai sim

When August is in its peak, every child knows that it is time for Obon celebrations in Kyoto Kagai sim. What can be better than dressing up in a nice cotton yukata, tying a colorful obi sash and admiring the fireworks, accompanied with horror stories? Definitely nothing!
That is why every year Kyoto Kagai sim holds Obon where everyone can come and participate and learn about this traditional feast. First of all, there was a Bon Odori or "Bon Dance", a sacred dance performed only on this special occasion. After the dance, guests could take a snack at the near-standing food stalls, or participate in festival games: catching a goldfish, shooting, darts etc. This year, our guests and patrons could compete with maiko and Geiko members of Hanafusa okiya and win some splendid prizes :)

"The time has come to say farewell..."

After guests have played games and danced the sacred Obon dance, the time has come to enjoy fireworks and floating lanterns on the stone bridge that crosses the Kamo river. By lighting a lantern and putting it on the clean waters of the river, we say farewell to the spirits that visit this world during Obon. By this, we remember our beloved once with joy...

Geiko Kikutsuru watching the lanterns floating on the Kamo river (photo taken by talented shikomi Amaya)

Maiko Kikune praying (photo by Shikomi Amaya)

Maiko Kikushino watching the lanterns(by Shikomi Amaya)

Shikomi Amaya chan helped with Obon celebrations

Hassaku 2019

from left to right: Maiko Kikune(purple), Geiko Kikutsuru(blue),
Geiko Kikumaru(beige) and Maiko Kikushino(pink)

1st of August is always one of the most busy and important days in August for Hanafusa okiya members as this is the day of Hassaku. This year is really special for this famous okiya as it is first Hassaku for two new geiko san: Geiko Kikutsuru(who became geiko last year) and Geiko Kikumaru(who had her erikae last month). Also, for Maiko Kikune it is, in a way, as well first Hassaku since she became Senior maiko in the beginning of 2019 and first for Maiko Kkushino as she stepped into her second year of being a Maiko.
During this event, there was a new member spotted - her name is Amaya and she is a shikomi san in Hanafusa okiya. She was extremely busy helping her seniors to prepare that she excused herself after introducing and run to the okiya. This is great news as we can see how Hanafusa okiya is growing. Who knows, maybe soon we will get to celebrate misedashi?...
But for now, let us return to yesterday's event.So, what is Hassaku and why is it considered that important? Well, it is similar to greeting rounds that take place in winter(Shin Aishatsu) but, of course, there are several differences. Every year on this hot summer day, all okiya members from Miyagawacho Hanamachi dress up in their casual komon or iromuji and go on rounds, paying respects to teachers, establishments and sometimes long time patrons. Indeed, this takes time to make all visits and greet people that play important if not major part in the life of the okiya - kimono makers, local shop keepers, kanzashi makers, tea house owners, teachers, fan and prop makers etc. This is same both for Rl and SL, as Hanafusa okiya tried to keep all traditions as realistic as possible.
If you have seen pictures from Hassaku, you might have noticed that some Maiko and Geiko wear most formal kimono called kuromontsuki while others (as do Hanafusa maiko on the picture) - simpler kimono and no make up. So who wears what during Hassaku?
Gion Kobu: Maiko san and Geiko san from Gion Kobu hanamachi wear formal regalia (kuromontsuki with 5 crests of the okiya and formal obi, formal make up with 3 stripes, tortoise shell kanzashi alongside with august pampas hanakanzashi; in case or senior maiko hairstyle is called Yakko Shimada, while junior maiko wear their hair styled in Wareshinobu).
Gion Higashi: casual komon or iromuji, no make up, hairstyle: Wareshinobu or Ofuku
Kamishichiken: casual komon or iromuji, no make up, hairstyle: Wareshinobu or Ofuku
Miyagawacho: casual komon or iromuji, no make up, hairstyle: Wareshinobu or Ofuku
Pontocho: casual komon or iromuji, no make up, hairstyle: Wareshinobu or Ofuku
This is one of the best times to see the members of Kagai, as they flow through streets in small groups. Also, this is a good time for you to notice the changes that have occurred since springtime odori's: who has become senior, new members or who has returned to kagai etc. This year, Hanafusa okiya of Second Life has showed us that it has been doing quite well - 2 Geiko, 2 Maiko and 1 shikomi shows us that they keep flourishing. Let's wish them best!

Members of Hanafusa okiya posing in front of their okiya
from left to right: Maiko Kikushino(pink), Geiko Kikumaru(beige), Geiko Kikutsuru(blue), Maiko Kikune(purple) and
the newest member of the okiya Shikomi Amaya

Erikae Celebrations in Hanahusa ochaya

Yesterday, Hanahusa ochaya opened its doors for everyone to take part in the celebratory ozahsiki on the occasion of Erikae of Maiko Kikumaru. After 5 years of apprenticeship, okaasan Kikuyu saw Kikumaru san to be fit and mature enough to become Geiko and yesterday guests were able to see the first dance of a new Geiko and taste special celebratory dishes.
Oneesan of Geiko Kikumaru, Geiko Kikutsuru, accompanied the dance with a skillful play on koto.
After the ozahsiki, all the guests were able to take photos with the new geiko in the genkan that was all decorated with congratulatory posters.

First dance of a new Geiko Kikumaru; Geiko Kikutsuru is playing Koto

Danpatsu no Shiki

Geiko Kikuyu playing shamisen

On Friday evening a special ceremony took place in Hanahusa ochaya. Behind the closed doors, surrounded by closest friends and family, Kikumaru san celebrated her last day as a Maiko.
The celebratory ozashiki started in early evening with a magnificent feast and continued up until midnight. Expensive high-class sake, delicious fresh sashimi and of course lots of traditional sweets were prepared for the guests on this special occasion. After honorable guests have eaten and enjoyed a witty conversation with Hanafusa Maiko and geiko, Okaasan of Hanafusa okiya, geiko Kikuyu performed on the shamisen while Kikumaru san danced "Kurokami" - the last dance of a Maiko.
After the dance, Kikumaru san sat on the special zabuton while okaasan Kikuyu prepared utensils for the ceremony of Danpatsu no shiki. When everything was ready, Kikuyu-okaasan removed all the kanzashi and hairpins from the hair of her maiko daughter and placed them on a tenugui. Than she took special ceremonial scissors and cut several cords that were holding the hair of Kikumaru san.

Dampatsu no shiki

Than Kikutsuru san, oneesan of the geiko-to-be, was called up and was handed the scissors. Kikumaru san smiled towards her oneesan and a small tear flowed from her eye but oneesan quickly caught it with her handkerchief. Sisterhood is something that can be both in RL and in SL. Truth to say, this moment is extremely emotional as after 5 years of being a maiko, there is no way back, you are to become geiko.
Geiko Kikutsuru cut several cords and gave the scissors to Maiko Kikune, now most senior maiko in Hanafusa okiya. After she has cut a hair cord, imouto of Maiko Kikumaru, Maiko Kikushino, took the scissors and cut a cords holding the hair.
After, all her sisters have moved towards the byobu and the honored guests came forward. In the end of the ceremony, the hair was freed from the Sakkou hairdo, and was simply tied into a bun.
It is now done - a new geiko bowed towards the guests thanking them for the support and asking not to forge about her in the future.

from left to right: Maiko Kikushino, Maiko Kikune, Geiko Kikumaru, Geiko Kikutsuru

Tanabata celebrations

Last weekend Kyoto Kagai sim hosted Tanabata - the start festival. According to legend, each July 7(7th day of the 7th month of the Lunar calendar) two stars, Altair and Vegae, which are usually separated, travel the Milky Way to renew their ancient bond of love. In RL as well as in SL Japan, we celebrate their reunion of two lovers by taking part in summer games and enjoying delicious foods from the stalls. One particular tanabata tradition says that by writing wishes on the colorful piece of paper and hanging it on the bamboo will make your wish come true. Have you tried?

Time for some summer games!

Fireworks!
(from left to right: Maiko Kikumaru wearing a mask, Geiko Kikutsuru and Maiko Kikune)

They see each other only once in a year...

A small shinto shrine

Erikae of Maiko Kikumaru coming soon this month!

In the event of our Maiko, Kikumaru becoming a Geiko at the end of this month, we welcome you to order a congratulation poster to gift her with.

• Please include your name as you want it on the poster ( either in Kanji,Hiragana/katekana or - Your name as it is written using your own Alphabet. 
• Send your wish to Geiko Kikutsuru ( Miehina Resident) 

I hope that you will be able to join us for the Erikae when the day comes(from 26 till 28th of July) and before that time we encourage you, your family and friends to partake in our weekly events where Maiko Kikumaru will be in her stunning sakkou kitsuke perforing the last dance of a maiko.

Maiko Kikumaru in her Sakkou kitsuke at the Maruyama park(Kyoto kagai sim)

Maiko Kikumaru is now wearing Sakkou!

Another amazing news coming from Hanafusa okiya - oneesan of Maiko Kikushino, Maiko Kikumaru was spotted wearing formal attire with hair hair styled into Sakkou hairstyle. This means that in about a month Hanafusa okiya will have new Geiko. Just like Kikutsuru san last year, erikae celebrations will take place in summer and we encourage You to come and witness this extremely rare event in the life of the Second Life Karyukai

Now lets have a look at the outfit that Kikumaru san will wear during her sakkou stage:

• Hair: during this last month as a maiko, a very special Sakkou (also known as saki kogai) hairstyle is worn and that is why this stage if often called "sakkou". Before it was adopted by Karyukai, it was worn by the brides-to-be during the Edo era and it signified a dedication for a future husband. Nowadays, by wearing sakkou geiko-to-be shows her dedication for the profession and willingness to continue as part of the Karyukai. As you can see, from the front it does remind a normal Maiko hairstyle(such as ofuku or wareshinobu) but if you look at the back you will notice how extravagant this hairstyle really is - elegant and smooth lines of hair, decorated with silver wires and red bands. Truly, a masterpiece! 
• Kanzashi: specially ordered custom made daikan kanzashi crowns the hair of Maiko Kikumaru - it features crane flying upon a golden ship, pine and water. all of these elements are considered lucky and are to bring good fortune. 2 bekkou hairpins were gifted to her by her oneesan Maiko Kikutsuru and the comb is Hanafusa okiya's antique. 
• Make up: Formal make up with three lines at the back is worn and you can notice that there is more black and almost none pink, meaning she is now a mature lady
• Eri(collar): with formal sakkou looks also comes special eri that has red background with beautiful golden embroidery(small golden dots)
• Kimono and obi: as Sakkou stage is considered a highly formal occasion, Kikumaru san will be wearing most ceremonial, custom made black kuromontsuki that has 5 Hanafusa crests on it. This masterpiece features tsuru(cranes) flying upon the waves. It is tied with white and golden obi that has fan flower motif. Now you can notice that the kimono piece and daikan kanzashi are matching together and it does look like one of the cranes from the kuromontsuki flew towards the ship.
• Kago: this type of kago, worn by maiko Kikumaru, was gifted to her by okaasan Kikuyu way back in 2013 when Kikumaru san made her debut as Maiko. By wearing this kago during last month as Maiko, Kikumaru san shows her appreciation for Hanafusa okiya

Maiko Kikumaru posing in the park of Kyoto Kagai sim

Kikumaru san said: "From the bottom of my heart I would like to welcome you, your family and friends to take part in the celebrations of Kyoto Kagai sim that will take place this month. By performing Kurokami (my last dance as a Maiko) during this month i would like to thank you for the support and love that you have given me. Ookini san dosu"

Higashiyama Hanataro performance

Higashiyama Hanatoro (also written Hanatouro) is one of the two Hanatoro events held in Kyoto sim every year; the other one being Arashiyama Hanatoro in December. There is really a lot to see at Higashiyama Hanatoro, from dancing Hanafusa Maiko to Yasaka Jinja beautifully bathed in light. 

The event is a chance for you to see Kyoto Kagai sim in a new spring light surrounded with trees that are starting to bloom. Walk in the narrow streets of Higashiyama and hope that an apprentice geisha, maiko, comes by, or just go to see the maiko dance at Yasaka Shrine where you are guaranteed to see them!

from left to right: Maiko Kikune, Geiko Kikutsuru, Maiko Kikumaru, Maiko Kikushino

Shigyoshiki in Kyoto Kaburenjo(2019)

Last week Kyoto Kagai sim hosted Shigyoshiki - annual traditional opening ceremony, that marks the start of another business year in the Karyukai. Geiko and Maiko of Hanafusa okiya gathered at Miyagawacho Kaburenjo theater, wearing most formal black kimono called Kuromontsuki and renewed their vows for the new year. This is one of the few occasions when patrons and guests can see all of Kagai members gathered together wearing full regalia.

At the beginning Okaasan Kikuyu welcomed guests as well as kagai members with an inspiring speech. After she welcomed maiko and geiko to enter the stage and present the vows. They entered in strict ranking: first geiko, than senior maiko, than junior maiko. Shikomi are still in training and do not pledge vows until after their official debut.
Interesting change as spotted during Shigyoshiki - Maiko Kikune was spotted wearing Yakko shimada hairstyle as well as Senior Maiko Kuromotsuki with white eri, which means she is now officially senior maiko.
Also, this year Okaasan Kikuyu decided to switch to formal tomesode, not Kuromontsuki.

After the vows were pledged, maiko and geiko offered sake and, specially prepared for this event, osechi (traditional Japanese New Year foods).
For those who couldn't come but yet are interested, i present formal Kitsuke outfits of Maiko and Geiko from Hanafusa okiya,which they wore for Shigyoshiki:

Geiko Kikuyu

Okaasan Kikuyu

As i have mentioned before, this year Okaasan Kikuyu has decided to wear tomesode rather than kuromontsuki. Geiko san do switch from trailing style kimono and distinctive oshiroi make up to iromontsuki/tomesode and natural looks with time. Her tomesode features different elements such as green momiji leaves, matsu, chrysanthemums, pampas grass making this tomesode perfectly fit for the season. This formal maru obi is pink with silver tied carefully into otaiko style knot worn only during formal okasions
Her hair is in Yoohatsu style which basically means "western hairstyle" and made from geikos own hair. It is not as complicating as Maiko san's wareshinobu or ofuku, rather some simplified and mature, yet still need to be done by a professional hairdresser. You can often spot geiko wearing this type of hairstyle during the day or some jikata geiko during the events.
No juban elements are seen and on her feet okaasan is wearing comfortable golden zouri.

Geiko Kikutsuru

Geiko Kikutsuru

It is first Shyoshiki for Kikutsuru san as geiko so as a fresh geiko is is wearing full geiko set with kuromontsuki and oshiroi. Her kuromontsuki is custom made and has pattern under the waist. The design is water and ships. The obi is woven made with golden and silver threads, perfect for important events. Geiko's obi (apr. 440 cm long) are bit longer than simple women's obi. Also, for geiko's obi, patterns are created upside down, so when it is tied in Geiko Taiko knot, the pattern will have the correct position, facing upwards.
The wig geiko Kikutsuru is wearing in Japanese is called Katsura, and it is styled in Geiko Shimada style. For formal events, kanzashi hairpins that are used for decorating katsura, are made from most precious and luxurious materials, such as tortoiseshell, gold, expensive stones etc. Tortoiseshell kanzashi are most unique and antique as nowadays the craftsmen that work with this material are almost non-existant. Kikutsuru san is wearing Bekko (tortoiseshell) comb that features mon of Hanafusa okiya, Bekko Kogai at the back and a traditional dove and rice maezashi (worn only a small period of time during January)

Maiko Kikumaru

Maiko Kikumaru

Kuromontsuki that Kikumaru san wore for Shigyoshiki featured tsuru(crane), waters, matsu, ume(plum blossoms), chrysanthemums - a perfect design for winter and springtime forma events. Tsuru represents good fortune and longevity, matsu - strength, ume - symbol of fore-coming spring and chrysanthemums - longevity, rejuvenation as well as it is mon of Hanafusa okiya.

It is tied with long Darari obi (apr. 6.8m) with auspicious chrysanthemum created with golden threads on light yellow background. This obi is very special as it is used during misedashi debuts. Unfortunately not seen at this picture, at the end of every maiko obi there is crest of the okiya girl belongs to. 

Her hair is styled in Yakko Shimada and decorated with valuable tortoiseshell hair pieces and seasonal pins. January daikan (front) kanzashi, are unique and new ones are commissioned at the beginning of the year. This years motifs are plum blossoms, bamboo leafs and matsu needles. Other decorations and pins are made from tortoiseshell.

Maiko Kikune

Maiko Kikune

During Shigyoshiki guest and patrons could witness Kikune san for the first time as senior maiko. Her Kuromontsuki has many lucky as well as multi-seasonal motifs that are hand-painted - ox-drawn carriages, chrysanthemums, waves, peonies, plum blossoms, pine, summer grasses etc. It is tied with golden Darari obi, that not only gives the finishing touch the ensemble but also supports the back of maiko, as the kimono, especially formal kuromontsuki, are extremely heavy. No obijime or pocchiri are worn with formal outfit.

Formal wear also means that Senior maiko will change from ofuku hairstyle to Yakko Shimada. This is also first time Kikune san wears this hairtyle. As well as geiko san, Maiko san too are given opportunity of wearing gorgeous and expensive kanzashi - if you look at the hair of Kikutsuru san, you can notice Bekko Kushi (comb) with Hanafusa okiya mon, Bekkou Hirauchi, Jade Tama, special January daikan (front) kanzashi, maezashi with bira oghi and small pin called bira dome. For Shigyoshiki both Junior and Senior maiko wear rice husk maezashi with eyeless dove - rice grains can be given to customers and are considered symbols good luck and fortune.

Maiko Kikushino

Maiko Kikushino

As the youngest maiko in the okiya, Kikushino san wears most colorful and elaborate kuromontsuki in the okiya. This exact piece features seasonal flowers, leafs as well as many good luck motifs - everything hand-painted on the silk by a skilled master. The obi was carefully selected for this special event as is created with beige and golden silk threads. As junior maiko, she ties obiage cloth on the top of the obi, rather than seniors who tuck it into. To add more, this is sister obi of the one worn by Maiko Kikumaru, oneesan of Kikushino.

As she is still young maiko, her own hair is styled, even during formal events as Shigyoshiki, into Wareshinobu hairstyle. Decorated with elaborate bekkou kushi, Bekkou Hirauchi with coral Tama, carefully selected maezashi with seasonal hanakanzashi, more colorful than senior maiko. As for the rice husk maezashi with eyeless dove - not only grains bring luck, but also the eyeless dove has its special meaning - maiko or geiko fill in one eye and ask guest/very special person they like to draw the other for good luck in the coming year. This tradition differs from hanamachi to hanamachi, nevertheless it is considered as lucky charm.