Tripatini contributor Linda Cooper writes:

"...we journeyed to one of Japan's oldest cities (it was chosen as the imperial capital in the 8th century, and now has a population around 1½ million), a 2½-hour train ride or five hour drive southwest of Tokyo. And as the country's "cultural capital" it's also the center of the geisha world, and I was granted a rare interview with a geiko (geisha) and her maiko apprentice. Around dusk in the entertainment district Gion, we arrived at a little wooden building “boarding house” for mistresses of the classical arts, designated by black vertical plaques at their entrances; the blond wood sign above denotes the name of the geiko and maiko who live inside its quaint teahouse. Led upstairs by the “house mother” to a private room we were seated, and I soon was captivated as our geisha floated elegantly inside; red-lipped and doll-like dressed in elaborate kimonos and face artistically painted and powdered white. They are skilled in making conversation as well as practicing many of the traditional arts, including dance and playing instruments such as the lute and three-string shamisen. A trance-like tea ceremony and performance ensued, followed by a rare interview and even an impromptu dance lesson! Contrary to the prostitution myth about this profession, geishas are highly respected and bound to lead a single life “not allowed to consort with boys” and live with their house mothers under strict rules; should they choose to marry, they must retire from the profession."

Read more in her post A Beautiful Bespoke Journey to Japan.