Beyond the Kimono: Candid Moments with Japanese Geishas

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Misconceptions About Geishas and Their Role

The image of geishas has often been misunderstood, partly due to events during World War II. Women working in brothels sometimes posed as geishas to attract foreign soldiers, creating confusion about what geishas truly represent.

Geishas are skilled entertainers trained in traditional Japanese arts, such as dance, music, and conversation. Their role is rooted in cultural preservation and artistic expression, not the misconceptions tied to wartime misrepresentation.

This historical mix-up has led to a distorted view of geishas, overshadowing their true identity as artists and cultural ambassadors. Understanding their authentic role helps clarify their significance in Japanese tradition.