A ;i>maiko is an apprentice geiko (a type of geisha) in Kyoto; western Japan. Their jobs consist of performing songs; dances; and playing the shamisen (three-stringed Japanese instrument) for visitors during feasts.

Maiko are usually aged 15 to 20 years old and become Geiko after learning how to dance (a kind of Japanese traditional dance); play the shamisen; and learning Kyo-kotoba (dialect of Kyoto); regardless of their origins. Pictures From History Kusakabe Kimbei