On February 20, 24 maiko from Kamishichiken, a traditional geisha district in Kyoto, visited the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, where the plum blossoms are expected to reach full bloom soon. They gathered to pray for the improvement of their skills and the success of their upcoming performance, 'Kitano Odori', which will be held from March 20 to April 2 this year. The shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a deity revered for academic success and also recognized as a god of the performing arts.

The maiko participated in prayer rituals at the main shrine and received protective charms, expressing their hopes for skill advancement. One maiko, Satohane, who is set to appear in her fifth 'Kitano Odori', remarked her desire to support the newer maiko participating in the event, indicating the close-knit community and the mentorship roles within the traditional geisha culture. The significance of this event not only lies in the performances but also in the spiritual and cultural practices that are integral to the maiko's way of life.

As the 74th annual 'Kitano Odori' approaches, it highlights the importance of cultural preservation in Kyoto, a city famous for its rich heritage of arts and traditions. The performance is a celebration of the skills honed by the maiko and serves as an opportunity for them to showcase their talents to both locals and visitors. The gathering at the shrine is a reminder of the intersection of tradition, spirituality, and art in this historic city, emphasizing both the challenges faced by the performers and the communal support they provide each other.