CULTURE

Custodians of Japanese Culture

Ahead of an exclusive performance for Members this month, three geisha reveal what it takes to become a traditional entertainer.

WORDS OWEN ZIEGLER

The striking white oshiroi makeup. The flowing sleeves of a silk kimono. The immaculately coiffed hair adorned with golden kanzashi pins and multicolored ribbons.

Even if all one catches is a scant glance of wooden geta-clad feet shuffling around a corner, one word is all it takes to describe the sight: geisha.

“Ever since I was a young girl, I was captivated whenever I saw a geisha on TV or in the movies,” explains Mayu, who fulfilled a childhood dream to become a geisha in Tokyo’s Akasaka business district.

“It always struck me as such a beautiful part of traditional Japanese culture,” adds Maki of the profession that emerged in the 17th century. “I thought I’d be very happy if I could become a geisha one day.”

Akasaka Geisha Association geisha

Both originally from Sendai, Maki, 45, and Mayu, 47 (geisha are identified by their professional names), became acquainted while working together in a local hotel. When they confessed their mutual admiration for geisha over after-work drinks one evening 20 years ago, the pair resolved to leave Sendai and join an okiya geisha house.

“I have to reject so many young girls who apply to train with us,” explains Akasaka Geisha Association okiya head and practicing geisha Ikuko, who turns down those who see the profession solely as a money-making venture. “The training is so long and so difficult that I tell the girls and their families that I’m really taking them on as my own daughters in a way.”

While there is no set training period, the sheer breadth of skills required for performing professionally typically requires years of tutelage from a veteran like Ikuko, who still performs at the age of 81. In addition to perfecting the delicate art of conversation (with all of the Japanese language’s notorious complexity), Maki and Mayu were also expected to master several instruments, including the stringed shamisen and the taiko drum.

But with such a mountain of talents to hone, where does a would-be geisha begin?

“In our okiya, dancing forms the foundation,” says Mayu. “Everything else a geisha must master, such as playing an instrument or entertaining guests, flows from dance.”

“Traditional dance forces your mind and body to work in harmony,” says Ikuko. “Once you can do that gracefully, everything else will come much more easily.”

Though Mayu and Maki are grateful for Ikuko’s demanding mentorship, they admit that the flagging number of new trainees might be related. The pair are among an estimated few hundred geisha in Japan today, a fraction of the tens of thousands who worked a century ago.

“Strict training of course makes for skilled performers,” says Maki, “but most of all we need the next generation to fall in love with geisha like we did.”

After all, Mayu adds, perfection isn’t the goal. Dedication is.

“I’ve been training for years, but we’re always learning,” she says. “That is the essence of being a geisha.”

GEISHA EXPERIENCE  October 23  3–4:30pm  ¥3,300 (guests: ¥4,400)  Ages 15 & above  Sign up online

Two Perfect Getaways

Club Med’s vacation destinations combine convenience and comfort

Club Med, which operates destinations known around the world for their family-friendly, all-inclusive experiences, is the first of its kind to arrive in Japan. The company was founded in 1950 in Alcúdia, a village on the Spanish Balearic island of Majorca. Ever since, Club Med has been the pioneer in all-inclusive resorts, opening 70 award-winning establishments worldwide in some of the most desirable locations.

The first destination in Japan was opened in Sahoro, Hokkaido Prefecture, in 1987. In the years that followed, Club Med opened two more locations in the country—one in Ishigaki, Okinawa Prefecture, and the other in Tomamu, Hokkaido Prefecture. These two locations are known for cultivating an international atmosphere, drawing guests from around the world, and for being staffed by a global team of G.Os®—Gentle Organizers, the staff who go to all lengths to ensure guests are enjoying themselves thoroughly during their stays.

These resorts include everything you might need—delicious food, open bars, Kids Clubs and a variety of activities and entertainment are included in the packages. As travel begins to start again, these are some of the reasons why Club Med resorts are the best places to stay for a vacation, especially for those looking for family-friendly getaways.

NORTHERN WONDERLAND

Club Med Tomamu is located in the heart of Hokkaido, nestled amidst the island’s beautiful mountain landscapes. The accommodation’s stylish and contemporary designs, as well as the impressive array of entertainment options, activities, bars and restaurants, make this resort a mustexperience destination.

This prime location is an ideal place to enjoy winter sports, including skiing and snowboarding. Unlimited ski passes are included in the all-inclusive premium package deal, and ski lessons are available for all ages and skill levels. Hokkaido’s powder snow is renowned by skiers as some of the highest-quality snow that can be found anywhere in the world. In addition, Hokkaido gets some of Japan’s heaviest snowfall. To enjoy the winter experience even more, you can also try your hand at activities such as snow trekking and ice sliding.

Ice Village, which is operated by Hoshino Resort, is open exclusively during the upcoming winter months. Iceskating, fireworks, an ice restaurant and cocktails served in ice glasses are all part of the magical winter wonderland. In the evenings, illuminated ice sculptures decorate the venue—perfect for a festive winter vacation.

COME FOR THE FOOD

Another perk of the all-inclusive resort is the main restaurant, Itara. The buffet restaurant provides guests with a variety of international and Japanese dishes. The food all highlights ingredients from Hokkaido, from bread made with local organic flour to freshly caught seafood and Hokkaido soft serve ice cream. In addition to the main dining room and live kitchen, the restaurant features four dif-

ferent dining rooms: Bucolic Valley, Farmhouse, Sea of Clouds and Rays of Sun. The restaurant features cuisines from around the world, and menus change daily. There is also a Baby Corner, which offers special meals and amenities to make dining with a young one more relaxing. The specialty restaurant Haku provides guests with a delicious yakiniku experience featuring premium beef cuts, as well as a diverse range of seafood options.

Adults can also enjoy a unique experience at the resort’s concept bar, The Nest. Anything from a glass of premium Japanese whiskey—such as Yamazaki or Hakushu—to local sake tasting can be enjoyed there. The venue offers a tranquil atmosphere where you can relax during the evenings, and bar cover charge is included in all packages.

OKINAWAN OASIS

The second of Club Med’s resorts is located in the tropical paradise of Ishigaki. Called Club Med Kabira, it is situated on the coast of the beautiful island, near the award-winning Kabira Bay and in front of Ishigaki’s best beach. It is 30 minutes by car from Ishigaki Airport. This location promotes the Okinawan way of life, incorporating wellness and health in their range of activities, entertainment and food and beverage options. All rooms face the ocean.

The healthy local cuisine—along with other international dishes—is served in the stylish Main Restaurant, which boasts panoramic sea vistas. For those looking to quench their thirst, there is the cozy Tingara bar, an open bar that serves a variety of alcoholic beverages, virgin cocktails and other drinks.

WINTER FUN

Rest assured, Club Med Kabira’s charms are not limited to the summer. There are more than enough activities to enjoy during the winter months.

From November to April, guests can take guided windsurfing lessons at one of the best windsurfing spots in Asia. Those who are more experienced can go at it alone, taking in all of the natural glory. Other activities on offer include kayaking, mountain biking, tennis and sunset yoga sessions.

As Okinawa is known for its beautiful tropical waters, diving is a must. Scuba diving and snorkeling are great ways to enjoy the turquoise beauty of Ishigaki’s waters, and to see the multicolored coral and teeming sea life. October and November are the best months to see graceful manta rays up close.

For those looking to take home more than just memories, there are exclusive cooking lessons twice a week, where participants can learn to make Okinawan cuisine. And guided lessons on the sanshin—a traditional Okinawan instrument that sounds like the banjo—are also available for guests.

KIDS CLUB

Both the Tomamu and Kabira resorts offer perfect getaways for family fun with a little help from the Kids Club. Children can be left under the watchful and professional eyes of well-trained staff while enjoying an array of activities. Not only does this allow adults more freedom to kick back and relax, it lets the children meet kids from different countries and have fun with new friends.

Club Med doesn’t just offer a hasslefree booking process. They provide families with the freedom and security of a vacation that pleases everyone.

To book a winter vacation at Club Med Kabira or Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido: www.clubmed.co.jp

Activities are subject to change. Additional fees may be charged for excursions, food and beverages at concept bars and restaurants, and the Petite Club (ages 2–3). Please check the Club Med website for more information.