Timeless Kikuno

A scroll-stopping shot of Geiko Kikuno of Nara, sadly i’m not sure if it is a new photo or not, the hiki has a quite summery vibe to it but the gorgeous obi evokes a timeless elegance of Ginko leaves…

Kikuno has not had the best run in 2018 but she is the manifestation of the strong and flexible willow tree. The ever savvy business woman has created a new Youtube account for her Maiko sisters Kikue and Kikunami, who it turns out, speaks English fluently. Both girls seem very comfortable in their role, Kikue has made such huge jumps in her education, one can truly see her potential as a new Geiko for Nara. Kikunami, an adorable girl, displays strong character as the Osaka spokeswoman for Kikuno’s Karyukai revitalization endeavours so the front is secured. But sadly the retirements of both Geiko Kikukame and Maiko Kikumame have left a mark. The careers of Nara Maiko tend to be on the short side, specially since the applicants are usually over 18 years of age and have a very short time to learn the arts of Geiko to earn their income after their graduation. But since Kikukame’s erikae hopes were up that the tide had changed. Kikuno is a great mentor though, she is a constant in the lives of her imouto and keeps them on track.

Nara’s standards of quality for their artist is quite high, ranking up there with neighboring Kyoto. It is a shame that some many girls retire in Nara during their apprenticeship but Kikuno has a clear goal to be the best Geiko in Nara and to offer the best service for her customers. But her good reputation is also a chance for her imouto: Ex-Maiko Kikukano debuted as a Geiko in Nagoya, a flourishing kagai, last year and is doing well.

Kikuno is the standard-bearer, the stone monument to Nara’s hanamachi. She must be strong, stern and flexible and her long experience is an asset for the flower and willow world. She is timeless, as is the black and white photo of her. Even though she is facing away from the viewer, her art speaks for itself. Shamisen firmly gripped she shows us exactly who she is: A strong and flexible Geiko of Nara.

Source: Japan_in_monochrome on Instagram