Maiko for a Day

 On a super rainy July 1st in Kyoto, my friend Kasie and I made the trek from Kobe to partake in a time-honored gaijin (foreigner) tradition--getting dressed up as maiko and have our pictures taken.

The experience overall was really enjoyable. There were 3 ladies rotating between the two of us to put on our makeup, the powders, lip and eye makeup, and the super red lipstick. After that, they gave us time to choose our own kimono from a selection of about 70. There were kimono of all different colors, patterns, and fabrics. I ultimately decided on a turquoise-green kimono with white flower accent, partially because my friend decided on a pink sakura and I didn't want to clash/contrast with her, and also because I knew that the background was black and I thought that the turquoise would pop.

After picking the kimono, one of the lady assistants wrapped me in a red under-kimono and tightened everything up with some ties. They she looped around a red board (for flattening the bumps made by the ties), a giant obi and stuck an even larger "cheaty obi" in my back.There were literally two metal poles up against my back. Then I was reprimanded for pursing my lips and smudging my lipstick, and then fitted with an elaborate wig contraption that sat atop my head, conveniently covering my hairline and blended in quite well. 

There was one photographer in the studio, and he didn't speak much English but enough to direct me and let me know that I was doing a good job ;) So below I just posted a couple of my favorite pictures and some descriptions. It was quite a while ago so I apologize for the abrupt end in narrative, but all I can say is that it was a really fun activity and I'm glad that I ended up springing the money for it. Definitely go with a friend or two, and make it a girls' day of fun.


The was the first shot taken. I was definitely a little nervous.

The photographer had plenty of accessories for a maiko. My mom thinks I look like I'm going to go into battle using my flower as a weapon.

Somehow I remembered at the 11th hour that it would be a good idea to remove my chipping nail polish. I remember being really thankful that I did that.

The studio was really nice and gave us each a free post card with a print on it of the "photographer's choice shot" which for me was this one. A lot of people have said that it doesn't look like me at all...which I am not sure how to take...

At the very least, I figure this one looks like me...
At the very end, the photographer had both Kasie and I pose for a couple shots together. I'm not really sure if we're supposed to be cheering or what the photographer wanted us to be feeling in this pose, but it turned out pretty nice.

Comments

Anonymous said…
Hi Elaine. Which studio was this and how much did you pay? Do you need to book beforehand. Athanks.
December 9, 2014 at 8:41 PM
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