Geisha Experience in Tokyo Like Never Before: The 100th Azuma Odori and the Upcoming Kagurazaka Event
- Shinya Yamada
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
When Japan’s Geisha Gather: An Unprecedented Cultural Event at the 100th Azuma Odori
Have you ever witnessed a gathering of geisha from across Japan on one stage? This may have been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Currently taking place at Shinbashi Enbujo Theater, the 100th Azuma Odori—a milestone performance presented by the Shinbashi geisha community—is in full swing. I had the pleasure of attending the May 22 performance to support the geisha of Kagurazaka.
This commemorative event spans seven days, from May 21 (Wed) to May 27 (Tue), with a total of 14 performances. In addition to the Shinbashi geisha, geisha from across Japan have been invited to perform—a rare and luxurious showcase of talent.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Gathering of Geisha from All Across Japan
During this remarkable week, all six of Tokyo’s geisha districts—including Kagurazaka, Akasaka, Asakusa, Mukojima, Yoshicho, and Shinbashi—gather at the Enbujo Theater. From Kyoto, the five major hanamachi (geisha districts)—Gion Kobu, Kamishichiken, Gion Higashi, Miyagawa-cho, and Pontocho—are also represented. Additionally, geisha from Kanazawa, Nagoya, Gifu, Nagasaki, Hakata, Niigata, and Sapporo have joined the performances. This level of grandeur and cultural exchange may never be seen again.
I also had the opportunity to enjoy a beautifully prepared ceramic bento lunch by one of Tokyo’s top ryotei. My wife chose the bento from Tokyo Kitcho, while I selected the one from Yonemura—each uniquely crafted by renowned establishments including Shin-Kiraku.
The Ultimate Geisha Experience: Tokyo Welcomes the Nation’s Finest for a Historic Performance
Ten geisha from Kagurazaka participated in the performance:
Tachikata (dancers) – Konatsu, Fukuko, Shiho, Kiyono, Haruna, Koharu, Waka
Jikata (musicians) – Yumié, Mayumi, Sakurako
On May 22, geisha from Asakusa and Kamishichiken (Kyoto) also took the stage, creating an incredibly vibrant and elegant atmosphere. Personally, I felt that the Kagurazaka geisha were the most graceful and technically impressive—though I may be a bit biased in favor of my home district.
That day’s program included Shinbashi geisha performing “Hyakunen Sanbaso” and “Okonomi Shinbashi ~ Shiawase Negau Yume no Kakehashi,” while Kagurazaka geisha performed “Hitosato” and “Kagurazaka Zakae.” Notably, Kagurazaka, Asakusa, and Kamishichiken all share the Hanayagi school of traditional dance.
Kagurazaka’s Geisha Deliver Poise and Precision in a Multiregional Celebration of Dance
At the finale, the Shinbashi geisha tossed hand towels into the audience. My wife and I were lucky enough to each catch one—kindly thrown by the beautiful geisha Koyu and Yuzuka.
Kagurazaka geisha will also participate in the May 27 performance, which will once again bring together Tokyo’s six geisha districts. If you missed the earlier performances, this is your chance to witness a rare and dazzling collaboration.
Next Kagurazaka Geisha Experience in Tokyo – Coming This June
Looking ahead, the next exclusive Geisha Experience in Tokyo featuring the Kagurazaka geisha will be the 2nd Kagurazaka Premium Beer Hall, scheduled for Saturday, June 7. I also plan to attend and am looking forward to a festive evening hosted entirely by Kagurazaka’s talented geisha.
Kagurazaka is known for its youthful geisha community, with new talent joining each year. In June, a new hangyoku (apprentice geisha, known as “maiko” in Kyoto) named Kyoka will debut. Many international visitors are deeply moved by the sight of young women passionately preserving Japan’s traditional performing arts. Please join us in supporting the next generation of geisha in Kagurazaka.
Event Information: Kagurazaka Premium Beer Hall
Venue: Tokyo Daijingu (Matsuya Salon – Isuzu no Ma)
Address: 2-4-1 Fujimi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Date: Saturday, June 7, 2025
First Session: Doors Open 13:00 / Show Starts 13:30
Second Session: Doors Open 16:30 / Show Starts 17:00
Please note: the second session (17:00 start) is already sold out. A limited number of seats remain for the first session (13:30 start). If you’re interested in geisha events, we warmly encourage you to attend.
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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