The Akasaka Odori

Geisha Asuka poses for photos during the Akasaka odori currently taking place in Tokyo. It´s a luxurious affair that attracts a large crowd since 1949 albeit going through a decade long hiatus. There are even some photos of then Maiko Mikako and Mamefuji waiting to enter the ACT Theater, where the odori is now held. The Kabuki-za had been the events home theater for years before it was moved to the musical theater. A constant performer in the odori for years, Asuka is one of the veterans of her small community.

Asuka left Japan to travel the world in her youth and seeing her native country from the outside made her appreciate her roots even more. Since her mother had encouraged her to take nihonbuyo lessons as a child, she decided to become a Geisha when she returned from her travels. She was fascinated by the traditional Geisha-look and she certainly has achieved it for herself too. Akasaka´s Geisha are known for their flashy style and big, bold patterns and statement pieces so the Akasaka odori is the perfect place to witness the distinct flavor of the kagai. And of course to see Asuka!

Photoso of Azuka: Michalmarquis and Lonnychick on Instagram

Akasaka Odori poster: Ticketspace on ints.co.jp