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Niigata Furumachi Geigi

HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Niigata Furumachi Geigi

Watch the elegant performances of the geisha of Niigata and experience a tradition of over 200 years

Niigata Prefectural Tourism Association

What comes to mind when you hear “Japan”? If colorful kimono, traditional dance, and beautiful gardens are the first things you think of, then Niigata is the place for you!

During the Edo period (1603-1867), Furumachi was a flourishing port town that attracted sailors and merchants from all over Japan. Its lively geisha quarter was considered one of the Japan’s top three entertainment districts, alongside Gion in Kyoto and Shinbashi in Tokyo. Today, Furumachi is a business area of Niigata City that still retains the old days atmosphere and where it is possible to experience an authentic geisha performance.

The geisha of Furumachi, called geigi, are highly skilled artists who perform traditional Japanese dance, accompanied by shamisen (a three-stringed traditional instrument) music and singing. Geigi wear elegant kimono and elaborate hair ornaments and enthusiastically carry on a tradition that stretches back more than 200 years. Events are regularly organized at traditional Japanese restaurants in Furumachi, allowing guests to enjoy geigi performances, along with witty conversations and parlor games, in private tatami rooms.

Geigi performances are also held in the beautiful surroundings of the Niigata Saito Villa, the former residence of the wealthy Saito family. The villa is surrounded by a Japanese-style landscape garden, which can be enjoyed at its best during the autumn season. Take a stroll along the garden paths to immerse yourself in the autumn colors or sit back and admire the scenery from the house’s verandah. Enjoy a special time with the art of the Furumachi geigi and get a glimpse into a world of elegance and tradition.