The karyūkai (literally “flower and willow world”) is a traditional cultural sphere in Japan where geisha entertain guests with refined arts such as dance, shamisen music, and conversation. Geisha are highly trained artists, and their role is to create an elegant, graceful atmosphere. This tradition lives on in areas like Shinbashi, Gion, and Kagurazaka, known for their exclusivity and the custom of “no first-time customers without referral.” Today, geisha culture is recognized as a valuable part of Japan’s intangible heritage, attracting interest from around the world. The karyūkai offers a rare insight into Japan’s aesthetics, etiquette, and the beauty of performance.
　To celebrate the milestone 100th performance of Azuma Odori, the annual public showcase of geisha artistry in Shinbashi, we are holding a special photo exhibition titled “Treasured Things of the Shinbashi Geisha.”
Each photograph captures a personal item cherished by a geisha in her daily life—objects that reflect her taste, tradition, and care. Through these intimate images, we invite you to discover a deeper layer of Japanese culture and the refined world of the geisha.