5. RL Geisha

Little Yoshiwara - Bakumatsu Period Japan Cultural Area. , Milarepa (49.046,70.8569,43.6945)

In the past, they would be compared to today's JPOP/KPOP idols. They started from 6 - 8 years old as Shikomi (Okiya's servant), and they weren't permitted to perform until the teenage years when they got promoted to the Minarai rank (trainee). Now in the modern days, they start from 15 - 18 years old.

It's a profession and lifetime career. They have no retirement age.

The first 5 years they work to repay the okiya for the training costs, kimono, and ornaments which are very costly even today. A whole set of what they wear can cost from 3,000 - 5,000 USD, and each of them needs at least 10 sets. After the first 5 years, they earn enough to support themselves.

They do not receive walk-in customers. All customers must book with the Okaasan (geisha mother) in advance through a connection. They charge from 160 USD/geisha/hour. Most of the customers are senior businessmen and high profile people who pay to enjoy the mystical fantasy. Important business deals are often sealed in a geisha banquet.