About Umeno Okiya

The Umeno Okiya (geisha lodging house) was started in 1977 by my mother, Yoshie Nakaji, who became a geisha in Kamishichiken, Kyoto, at the age of 16 after 11 years of training in traditional dance. Ever since her start as the 27-year old “Okaasan” of the Okiya, she continues to welcome guests with warmth here in Kamishichiken, Japan’s oldest geisha district.


Yoshie Nakaji

Adapting to the current era, together we share the charming world of our Kamishichiken “hanamachi” (district where geisha live and work) through social media. Inspired by the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, we are now excited to embark on the world's first attempt to upcycle the authentic kimono of maiko.

By choosing to shop with us, you're not only supporting our Okiya and the tradition of geisha and kimono, but you're also making a conscious choice to support sustainable practices.

Thanks again,
Yuko Nakaji