Jidai Matsuri 2007: Momoyama Period Style

Yukako, maiko of Gion Kobu, makes a few last touches to her makeup before the procession begins.


The geiko Suzuko flashes a stunning smile as Yodogimi, a favorite concubine of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

Makiko, maiko of Gion Kobu, also served as a Lady-in-Waiting to Yodogimi (Suzuko).


Yukako smiles sweetly as she chats with friends.

Sakiko, another young maiko of Gion Kobu, shades herself with an elaborate fan.

Gion Matsuri Maiko: Makiko

This is young Makiko, a maiko from Gion, on her way to watch the Procession of Dieties with her patron, the mop of grey hair hidden behind her glossy black lobes. The swarms of people gather along Shijo-dori parted like the Red Sea as gracefully glided towards the shrine. This is Makiko's first or second Gion matsuri as a Maiko! Her upper lip is still covered in the white makeup that overs the rest of her face, and her collar is still predominantly red. As she advances in skill and experience, she will be able to paint her upper lip in deep crimson, while her collar will gradually become less ornate, until she becomes a Geiko.