I found the last lot in Japan. I loved the colors and the way Maikos were going somewhere, doing something. I can’t help to imagine what exactly was happening in that scene. It feels like it was a free sunny day and they gathered in a garden to chat about their lives.
“An afternoon chat between Maikos and Asanoha stars. How are you doing with shamisen? Have you improved your dance? While cicadas over shadow the already pale voices.”
– Short Story by VM
Behind the symbols of the Maikos
Maikos are apprentices of Geikos (Not the same as geishas). Their jobs consist of performing songs, and dances and playing the shamisen for visitors during fests. They are girls between 15 and 20 years old. They become Geikos after they learn how to dance, play shamisen and learn Kyō-kotoba (Kyoto dialect). Maikos where originated from famous tea houses in Kyoto, they used to only serve green tea and dango 300 years ago. On this fabric, you can also see Asanoha Stars. This pattern is assumed to have been created around Edo period ( 1603 – 1868) and it became a symbol of growth and endurance.
See the Maikos in action
This year Netflix released an amazing series that couldn’t be more accurate about Maiko’s life, It’s just how I imagined it and it gives you more details of the things they go through plus you will learn about Japanese special dishes. The Makanai: Cooking for the Maiko House is so rich in details of Japan’s Culture. Small talks, great food, and finding the place where you belong are just like a warm hug to your heart. This is exactly the intention I put into Mekishico’s pieces when I create them. I hope you enjoyed this post! Matta ne!