Interview at the Geisha Cafe!?

April 20, 2025

The oldest onsen town in Japan, not far from Kobe, is home to probably the only geisha cafe in Japan. Geisha typically are quite expensive to hire, even onsen geisha with their not quite as exclusive reputation. But in Arima, you can go watch geisha perform while sipping a hot coffee for as little as ¥1800. This isn't an ad, but it may as well be because I love this place, and I might be working there soon enough.

Most people go to Arima for it's famous hot springs and old Japan vibe. I went about a month ago for the geisha, which most visitors will not know about before they arrive. It was a lovely time, I stayed for two dance performances and two rounds of ice tea. They geisha kindly talked to me about their job and even showed me a wig when I asked about it.

I'm quite sure I follow almost every geisha and geisha district that is on Instagram. When I saw Arima was hiring on a recent post, I immediately responded and was ecstatic when they asked me to come in for an interview and when the geisha who texted me remembered me from the cafe.

So I was crushed when my school said "no" to working as a geisha. I became then doubly crushed when I asked my japanese dance teacher for advice, and she advised me that it may not be the best choice of geisha districts. I am yet to consult with a lawyer about if I am able to get a visa for this job. The main problem is that most visas, including student visas, strictly prohibit working in nightlife like bars and hostess clubs. Geishas work primarily at night around people who are drinking, but since they are so ingrained in traditional culture and sophistication, it's hard to say where they land. Hot spring (onsen) geisha in particular have a reputation for being less sophisticated and artsy and intstead more party and drinking related.

But for several unimportant reasons I went to the interview anyways. It went amazing.

I wore a simple striped kimono, and even zori (kimono shoes) which is rare cause I prefer normal shoes even in kimono. But of course I wanted to make a good impression even if in the end I can't work there.

The geisha okaasan (mother figure) who interviewed me was very kind and welcoming. She complimented my kimono and dressing skills, and said my japanese was great, and she would be happy to have me work there. Before I even had to ask she told me that I would start working after I graduated, which was a major relief. I'm still not sure of my visa, and unfortunately geisha aren't popular enough in arima right now to make it a full time job, but it still left me hopeful.

We talked for about an hour and she mentioned I should help out with the bon-odori in July. Bon Odori is the dancing part of a big religious festival in Japan. On that day the geisha will help lead guests in the group dance while wearing yukata (casual cotton kimonos, often associated with onsen geisha and summer festivals). I wouldn't be paid so it doesn't pose and school or legal problems, but I am more than happy to be able to try a day in the life. After talking we went upstairs to find a wig that fits me for the bon-odori.

The day was filled with so much joy. I can't wait to learn and do more, and I'm so grateful to the geisha of Arima for being so kind and welcoming. I am very motivated at the moment, I will do my best in my Japanese and dance studies until then. I also need to loose a little weight to fit in the yukata lol.

Thanks for reading!