Erikae III "the turning of the collar"

This is the ceremony by which the Maiko becomes a Geiko. The Maiko must train for 5 or 6 years to become a Geiko and the promotion is marked by a special rite.

Close acquaintances gather at the Maiko's Okiya, the lodging house in which a Maiko or Geiko lives. Her hair is formally cut and there is a drinking ceremony to confirm her new status.

A colorful banner is displayed outside the Okiya emblazoned with the characters mokuroku, meaning registration. These formalities are together known as the Erikae - change of collar.

The New Geiko was first quiet surprised and after very happy to know that many of you wish her good luck. She said "Domo arigato gozaimashita!" Polite form in Japanese to say thank you very much!