T H E K U R A I M A C H I
暗い町
The Way of Life 生き方
The Geiko of the Kuraimachi are an order of women whose duty is to uphold the oyashiman culture. They are disciplined in both body and mind, for they stand as both artists and soldiers. Where many carry steel alone, they bear melody, dance, and resolve. The presence and performances of the Kurai Machi Geiko are not performative alone, but a declaration of the constant battle to upkeep their culture and people.
Traditionally, the Kurai Machi Geiko are spotted by their exquisite wardrobe and hair, their expensive jewelry, their high geta and most notably, their face which is painted white as milk, with teeth black as charcoal. They are truly like no other, almost embodying an ethereal level in appearance.
To walk the path of Geikohood, every movement must be disciplined, every note precise, every strike deliberate. Therefore, the Geiko is to suffer as she does showcase. To endure, above all, to perfect the union of art and war.
“No mud, no lotus”
Quote 3, Little Pink book, Uncle O.
Duties of the Geiko 芸妓の職務
1. Artistry 芸術 The most notable knowledge of a Geiko is their mastery of arts. There are several avenues for this that a Geiko must master: An instrument of their choice (such as the shamisen, koto, or biwa), traditional dances (such as Nihon Buyo or fan dance, Kabuki Odori or theatre dance), poetry, as well as being able to hold a tune in song. The preservation of their culture relies on the mastery of this art.
2. Bushidō 武士道 The Geiko of the Kuraimchi are expected to uphold the spirit of bushidō as a Samurai would. Their conduct is a reflection of their discipline, for they balance both the gracefulness of an artist with the unyielding resolve of a soldier.
4. War 戦争 The Kurai-Kuni Shugonate is a militaristic country. While their primary calling is art, Geiko are expected to also stand as defenders of their country and allies in both times and peace and war. They heed the Shugo’s call without question. Moreover, in times of battle they also uphold the spirits of Oyashiman lives through their art.
“The strength of a nation lies in the dedication of its people”
Quote 16, Little Pink Book, Uncle O.
Hierarchy 階層
The Okiya of the Kuraimachi, or household so to speak, runs with a rigid hierarchy. These titles are more than words, they serve as reflections of the skill level and dedication of the individual who bears. Each rank is earned through a set of trials that showcase the endurance, mastery and commitment of an individual to an Okiya that expects no less than perfection.
1. Okami 大神 The Okaasan, or mother of the Okiya. She oversees the operations and training of the Geiko. Moreover, she enacts discipline and ensures the safety of her Geiko. She embodies the strength and spirit of the Kurai Machi.
2. Geiko 芸妓 A fully trained member of the Kurai Machi. She is a performer and a teacher to the Maiko and Shikomi. She is expected to be a member of the Marines, as well as wear her uniform full time.
3. Maiko 舞妓 The apprentice Geiko. She trains in the art of dance, music, calligraphy and etiquette. They need only wear the uniform part time.
4. Shikomi 仕込 Initiate and servant to the Maiko and Geiko. She learns basic etiquette and the beginnings of bushidō. Moreover, she does the chores of the household and learns through observation.
“The love and respect for our traditions and culture is what distinguishes us as a nation”
Quote 22, Little Pink Book, Uncle O.