Sunday, December 4, 2005

Fall In Gion: Gion Odori

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Tsunesono, a geiko of Gion, strikes a feminie pose characteristic of Kyomai, Kyoto's traditional style of dance.

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Two geiko Gion of dancing kyomai. The shadow of the geiko Tsuneyu was just too perfect! She was like a porcelain doll.

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Tsuneyu, an older geiko, moved so gracefully I couldnt take my eyes off her. Since Tsuneyu and Tusnesono both share the "Tsu" in their names, they must come from the same Okiya, or geisha house. In the flower and willow world, they are sisters.

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Tsuneyu flutters her fan during the finale, the Song of Higashi Gion. This shot shows the difference in skill between a geiko and a maiko. Note the position of the hands, the fans, and the way their long sleeves are being held. Take a closer look on Flickr: Tsuneyu つねゆ.

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Tsunesono also graced the stage for the final dance, along with all the participating geiko and maiko.

The vivd colors, luxurious silks and elegant design of the maiko's kimonos were breath-taking. These dances transport the audience to a world of ethereal beauty, where every movement is a perfect work of art.