From the Taisho to Showa eras, Hachioji City in Tokyo once flourished as the “Town of Textiles.” At that time, to entertain the merchants who came to purchase textiles, many traditional restaurants (ryotei) were built here. Guests were treated to the songs and dances of geishas at banquets, which nurtured a unique geisha culture. Even today, when night falls, the area of the former Hachioji geisha district hosts an event called the “Hanamachi Light-up.” The warm, soft glow of andon lamps illuminates these nostalgic streets, creating a magical evening atmosphere.
Table of Contents
- Stroll through the andon-lit Hanamachi at night and feel the Japanese atmosphere
- Hachioji, the only “Geisha Town” in the Tama area
- Get up close with geishas you’ve only seen in movies
- Experience Japanese Hospitality in Tokyo - Event Basic Information
- After the experience, visit “Tokyo Hachioji Shuzo” to choose souvenirs
- Conclusion
Stroll through the andon-lit Hanamachi at night and feel the Japanese atmosphere
The design of the andon lamps is worth a closer look. The lampshades are adorned with mulberry leaves of various sizes and cleverly depict the “Hachioji geisha holding a fan,” creating a unique charm specific to the geisha district. Why not take a leisurely stroll in the evening to experience this special atmosphere?
The unique soft light of the andon lamps creates a romantic atmosphere.
The Japanese umbrella decorations, catching the eyes of passersby, further enhance the Japanese ambiance.
The mulberry leaf pattern design is called “SOU-KOMON (Mulberry Fine Pattern).”
The black walls and the light of the andon lamps complement each other beautifully.
Hachioji, the only “Geisha Town” in the Tama area
Today, “Kurobei-dori” (Black Wall Street) in Nakamachi still retains the charming atmosphere of a geisha district. There are currently 13 geishas who have inherited Hachioji’s Karyukai (geisha world) and are actively engaged in preserving traditional culture.
They are not only active as entertainers but are also deeply connected to the city of Hachioji, participating in local business promotions, cultural exchanges, costume events, and women’s gatherings. They engage in diverse and wide-ranging activities as “local bridges” promoting traditional culture and revitalizing local industries.
The geishas are frank and approachable, with no distance from their guests. This atmosphere is the charm of Hachioji’s geisha district.
Geishas are entertainment performers who embody traditional Japanese performing arts. They enhance banquets with skills such as singing, dancing, playing the shamisen, and engaging conversation, making them masters of both art and hospitality. A place where you can easily experience such geisha culture is Hachioji’s “Soto Terrace.” Its exterior, full of old geisha district charm, and the beautiful scenery woven by black walls and swaying willow trees are among its attractions.
Here, through the “Experience Japanese Hospitality in Tokyo” program (available on reserved dates), you can personally experience the geishas’ dances, songs, Zashiki Asobi (parlor games), and sincere hospitality.
“Soto Terrace,” located a 7-minute walk from JR Hachioji Station.
“Soto Terrace” illuminated by lights.
Get up close with geishas you’ve only seen in movies
Once the geishas enter, the performance is about to begin. Geishas you’ve only ever seen in movies and other scenes appear right before your eyes! Just thinking about it is incredibly exciting. First, it begins with greetings from the geishas and self-introductions from the guests. Then, the geishas will introduce the structure of Hachioji’s Karyukai and the history of the Hachioji geisha district to everyone.
An actual scene during the “Experience Japanese Hospitality in Tokyo” event.
Following that is time for dining and conversation. Guests chat relaxedly while the geishas pour drinks for them. Interacting with geishas up close for the first time, one always feels nervous initially. This is where these hospitality experts truly shine.
The geishas’ magical conversation skills liven up the dialogue and alleviate the guests’ tension. Their subtle attentiveness during the meal and their ability to energize the atmosphere are truly impressive. After the food and drinks have been mostly enjoyed, the geishas begin their dance performance to the melody of the shamisen.
Their elegant figures are a feast for the eyes! Their delicate performance, focused down to their fingertips, makes every movement graceful and beautiful. Witnessing the geishas’ exquisite performance firsthand is truly a luxurious experience.
The geishas’ enchanting dance, swaying gracefully to the rhythm of the shamisen.
Japanese Name: 日本のおもてなしを東京で体験 (Nihon no Omotenashi o Tokyo de Taiken) Content: A banquet held according to your desired date and start time. Includes a dance appreciation session with 3 geishas (120 minutes).
Location: Soto Terrace, 1st Floor Main Hall Fee: 110,000 yen (tax included)
Notes:
- If meal arrangements are required, an additional fee will be incurred.
- Meal content can be discussed in advance.
- If you do not opt for the all-you-can-drink plan (2,500 yen per person, tax included), alcoholic beverages and additional non-alcoholic drinks will be charged à la carte.
- Advance reservation is required; same-day reservations are not accepted.
After the experience, visit “Tokyo Hachioji Shuzo” to choose souvenirs
When visiting “Soto Terrace,” another recommended stop is “Tokyo Hachioji Shuzo,” located about 50 meters away on a corner of Kurobei-dori.
This is a small brewery, allowing for thorough management of the brewing environment, resulting in unprecedentedly fresh and smooth Japanese sake.
Using sake rice produced in Hachioji, the fruity and aromatic unpasteurized sake “prototype 1” is perfect as a souvenir and can be purchased at the shop attached to the brewery.
“Tokyo Hachioji Shuzo,” which insists on small-batch brewing to always provide fresh sake.
“prototype 1,” with a flavor that blossoms instantly, and a rich, fruit-like aroma that fills the mouth.
Freshly brewed unpasteurized sake can be purchased at the attached shop (limited to Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays).
Conclusion
Geisha districts often give an impression of being somewhat exclusive, but by participating in the “Experience Japanese Hospitality in Tokyo” event at “Soto Terrace,” you can relax and enjoy a delightful time in a home-like atmosphere.
If you have the chance to visit Hachioji, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance and experience the traditional geisha culture that Hachioji prides itself on!