Memoirs of a Geisha Setting & Symbolism

Memoirs of a Geisha Objects/Places

Kyoto

City in Japan

Gion

Suburb of Kyoto

Yoroido

Yoroido is the small fishing village where Chiyo grew up.

Noh mask

Mask used in Noh dramas

Osaka/ Nagasaki/Tokyo

Cities in Japan

Senzuru

Senzuru is the town where Mr. Tanaka lives.

Go

Game similar to solitaire played in Japan.

Teahouse

Place where geisha work.

Kimono

A kimono is a traditional dress, like a robe, worn by men and women in Japan.

Obi

Belt tied around a kimono.

Rickshaw

Wooden carriage used to transport people like a taxi, pulled by a person who holds onto two poles and runs with the carriage.

Okiya

Place where geisha live.

China Clay

White make up used by Geisha after the Second World War. This make up contained a lead compound that was poisonous and affected the complexions of lots of Geisha from that time.

Shamisen

Instrument similar to a guitar of Japanese origin.

Koshimaki

A wrap made out of silk, designed to cover women's hips.

Tabi

White socks worn by geisha.

Amakuchi

Type of sake,...
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