Become a maiko for a day

Step into the shoes of a maiko (an apprentice geisha) at Awara Onsen in Fukui Prefecture! Your experience begins at the Traditional Performing Arts Center, which is a three minute walk from Awara-Yunomachi Station. You will be dressed in a kimono traditionally worn by a maiko from an actual geiko (the Kyoto dialect for ‘geisha’).

You can choose your favorite pattern from several kinds of kimonos – a maiko traditionally wears colorful, floral patterns. In addition to having makeup applied, you will also get to wear a wig, which is decorated with a special hair pin called bira. Once in your maiko attire, you can try your hand at playing the taiko (traditional drum) or shamisen (stringed instrument).

This maiko experience isn’t limited to women – men are welcome to transform into a maiko too, and enjoy the experience even without a wig if they don’t fit. As an extra add-on option, you can have a professional photographer accompany you while you walk the halls in a maiko costume. The experience of becoming a beautiful maiko will definitely be an unforgettable memory from your trip.