Japan Gejsha

Geisha are traditional Japanese entertainers who dance, sing, play instruments, and conduct conversation. Initially, in the 17th century, they were men. Women began to take on this role in the 18th century. Geisha train for years in special training houses (okiya). Their job is to provide entertainment at parties, but they are not prostitutes, as is often mistakenly believed. The traditional geisha attire is a kimono and make-up with a white face and red lips. Today, their numbers are smaller, but they still operate in Kyoto and other Japanese cities.