8. Geisha ranks

Pimushe (121.007,25.297,1705.42)

Geisha also have seniority or ranks.
From lowest to highest:

1. Shikomi
The youngest and newest members, usually 8 - 13 years old. They don't work or perfom yet. They are like chore girls who also receive light geisha training.

2. Minarai
These are apprentice geisha, usually 14 - 17 years old. They receive intensive geisha training, and are also allowed to work and perform along side their older sisters.

3. Maiko (Junior Maiko & Senior Maiko)
These are junior geisha, usually 17 - 21 years old. This is the first professional geisha rank. They work along side their older sisters to gain more experience with customers.

4. Geiko
They are senior professional geisha, usually over 20 years old. They can work and perform on their own.

There are many distinctions between 2, 3, and 4, but mainly you can easily tell by the hair & hair accessories, kimono style, and makeup. How they dress is strictly by the rules of geisha.