The Japan Foundation, Manila (JFM) presented a rare opportunity to witness the elegance and artistry of Japan’s renowned maiko and geiko from Gion Higashi, Kyoto.
The exclusive performance took place on Feb. 22, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Shangri-La Plaza Grand Atrium as part of Nihongo Fiesta 2025.
This special event offered audiences a rare chance to experience traditional Japanese performing arts, highlighting the grace, refined movements, and time-honored culture of Kyoto’s hanamachi (flower town). Maiko (apprentice geiko) and geiko from the historic Gion district performed classical Japanese dances and shared insights into their centuries-old traditions.
Nihongo Fiesta 2025, held from Feb. 22 to 23, was JFM’s annual celebration of Japanese language and culture. This year’s festivities also featured the 52nd Nihongo Speech Contest, where talented Filipino learners of Japanese showcased their skills, and a special kobanashi (comic storytelling) performance, adding humor and wit to the program.
Admission to the maiko and geiko performance was free, providing a unique cultural immersion experience for Filipinos interested in Japan’s vibrant heritage.
